THE LIFE AND REIGN OF King CHARLES, From his Birth to his Death. Faithfully and Impartially performed By Lambert Wood Gent. LONDON, Printed for Simon Miller at the Star in St Paul's Churchyard, near the West end. 1659. Carolus REX Angliae TO THE READER. COURTEOUS READER, HEre is presented to thy View, the Life and Reign of King Charles, from his Birth to his Death; together with all the transactions both Military and Civil during his Reign; by which thou mayst plainly see, the degrees and steps, which occasioned the fall and untimely end of that great, though unfortunate Prince. I was the rather encouraged hereunto, by the sad complaint of Prince Henry, eldest Brother to the Late King, which was, That the English Nation, being inferior to none for praiseworthy Achievements, yet were surpassed by all, in remitting their praiseworthy Actions to posterity. In the Compiling this History, I have kept close to the naked truth, without the least reflection upon any Party or Interest, and that in as few words, as is imaginable, not omitting any thing considerable, or worthy the Readers taking notice of. His whole Reign was full of mutations and changes; For it is with times, as it is with ways, some are more rough and steep, others more smooth and level; or rather may they be compared to the sea, which is now calm and smooth, and presently boisterous waves and surgies are only prevalent; the truth of both are evident and fresh in the memory of many of the different Reigns of King James, and King Charles; the first being subtly indulgent to his own ease, had entailed an empty Exchequer upon the latter, which in humane probability was the occasion of the sad breaches and differences, that happened betwixt him and his Subjects. There is a natural desire in all mankind since the fall, to know good and evil; and it is as natural to most men, to pry into the secrets of Princes; and the more Princes endeavour to conceal their thoughts, the more the people labour to divine them; and when people are most in the dark, they fain to themselves the clearest light, and take the presumption to censure rashly the intentions of Princes; as when the Thunderbolt fell on Sejanus his head, the vulgar and most ignorant of the people boasted, they foresaw the tempest; Therefore it is best to Take St Paul's advice, not to judge any thing till the time come. I have omitted affected words and height of Rhetoric, neither being so essentially necessary for a History, which is chief intended for surviving Ages. Thus requesting thee gentle Reader to accept of the poor endeavour of him, who is Thy Friend LAMBERT WOOD King Charles his Life and Death. Courteous Reader, These Books following are Printed or sold by Simon Miller, at the Star in St Paul's Churchyard. Small Folio. THe Civil Wars of Spain in the Reign of Charles the fifth, Emperor of Germany, and King of that Nation, wherein our late unhappy differences are paralleled in many particulars. A general History of Scotland, from the year 767. to the death of King James, containing the principal Revolutions and Transactions of Church and State, with Political observations, and reflections upon the same: by David Hume of Godscroft. The History of this Iron Age. Doctor Lightfoot his Harmony on the New Testament. Mr. Paul Baine on the Ephesians. In Quart large. Barklay his Argenis, Translated by Sir Robert le Grise Knight, by his Late Majesty's special Command. Quarto small. Abraham's Faith, or the good old Religion, proving the Doctrine of the Church of England to be the only true faith of God's Elect: By I Nicholson Minister of the Gospel. The Anatomy of Mortality: By George Stroad. Aynsworth on the Canticles. Paul Bain, his Diocesans Trial. Gralle against Appolonius. A Treatise of Civil Policy, being a clear decision of 43 Queries, concerning prerogative, right and privilege, in reference to the supreme Prince and the people: By Samuel Rutherford professor of Divinity of St Andrews in Scotland. Politic and Military observations of Civil and Military Government, containing the birth, increase, decay of Monarchies, the carriage of Princes and Magistrates. Mr Pinchin his meritorious price of man's redemption, cleared. Astrology Theologised, showing what nature and influence the Stars and Planets have over men, and how the same may be diverted and avoided. The Harmony of Confessions. Camden's Remains. Large Octavo. Florus Anglicus, with the Lively Effigies of all the Kings and Queens since the Conquest, cut in Brass. The Reconciler of the Bible, wherein above two thousand seeming Contradictions are fully and plainly Reconciled. Evidences for Heaven, containing infallible signs and real demonstrations for assurance of salvation, published by Edm. Calamy Minister of Aldermanburic, Lond. The Life and Reign of King Charles from his birth to his death, By Lambert Wood A view of the Jewish Religion, with their Rites, Customs and Ceremonies. Small Octave. Ed. Waterhouse Esq his Discourse of Piety and Charity. A view and defence of the Reformation of the Church of England, very useful in these times. Mr Peter du Moulin, his Antidote against Popery; published on purpose to prevent the delusions of the Priests and Jesuits who are now very busy amongst us. Herbert's Devotions, or a Companion for a Christian, containing Meditations and Prayers, useful upon all occasions. Mr. Knowles, his Rudiment of the Hebrew Tongue. A Book of Schemes or Figures of Heaven, ready set for every four minutes of times, and very useful for all Astrologers. Florus Anglicus, or an exact History of England, from the Reign of William the Connqueror, to the death of the Late King. Lingua, or the Combat of the Tongue, and the five Senses for superiority: a serious Comedy. The Spirits Touchstone; being a clear discovery how a man may certainly know whether he be truly taught by the Spirit of God, or not. The poor man's Physician and Chirurgeon. The Idol of Clowns. The Christian Moderator, in 3 parts. The Golden-fleece, or a Discourse of the clothing of England. Dr. Sibbs his Meditations. Doctor Smith's practice of Physic. The Grammar War. Posselius' Apothegms. Fasciculus Florum. Crashaw's Visions. Helvicus Colloquies. The Christian Soldier, his combat with the three arch-enemies of mankind, the world the flesh, and the devil. Vigerius precipes Idiotismus. Hensius de Crepundiae The History of Russia, or the Government of the Emperor of Muscovia, with the manner and fashions of the people of that Country. Drexeliu's School of Patience. Viginti Quat. The New Testament. The third part of the Bible. Plays. The Ball Chawbut. Martyred Soldier. THE LIFE & REIGN of KING CHARLES from his Birth to his Death. CHARLES the second Son of King James, was borne at Dumferling in Scotland the 19 of November 1600. who during his Infancy was of a very weak and sickly temper, but arriving to riper years, proved to be of a very healthful Constitution. Whilst he abode in Scotland was created Duke of Albany, marquis of Ormond, Count Ross, and Lord of Ardmannoth, and was the sixth of January 1604. in presence of all the Lords of the Privy Council, and other Peers of the Realm, at Westminster Created Duke of York, with all usual and accustomed solemnities. Count Gundamore being sent over Ambassador from the King of Spain, to treat of a Match betwixt the young Prince and the Infanta of Spain, who confidently affirmed, there was no other way to regain the Palatinate, and to settle a perpetual Peace in England, but by this Match. King. James having a natural inclination to peace, gives great attention, and by advice of the Privy Council, the Prince on the 17 of Feb. 1622. is sent disguised with the Duke of Buckingham, attended by Endymion Porter, of the Bedchamber, and Richard Greenham, Master of the Horse to the Duke, who were met at Dover by Sir Francis Cottington, Secretary to the Prince, who being Embarked, Land at Boulogne, and so post to Paris, where staying one day, he had a transient View of that excellent Lady the Princes Henerettae Maria, at a Mask, which The Great Disposer of all things had preserved for him. On the 7th of March he arrives at Madrid, and alighted at the Earl of bristols house, then extraordinary Ambassador, whose sudden arrival startled Bristol, who was altogether a stranger to the Journey. The next Morning notice was given to Count Olivares, the Spanish favourite (and by him Communicated to King Philip) of the arrival of the Duke of Buckingham, who in private informed the King of the Princes hazardous adventure to have a sight of the Infanta, which accordingly was afterwards performed with a great deal of seeming affection. But the crafty Spaniard could by no means be drawn to admit the restitution of the Palatinate, but would reserve it as a Gratuity to be freely bestowed after the Marriage. Much time was spent, and Articles were drawn on both sides ready to sign, when on the sudden Pope Gregory dies, who was to give his dispensation for the Match; application is made to Pope Vrban, which protracted much time: the Prince being sensible of delay, desires leave to return, & with many Compliments takes his farewell of the King and Infanta, and with much danger arrives the fist of October at Porchmouth, the next day posts to London, where he was received with unspeakable joy of the people, and soon after hastes to Royston, where the King then resided; to whom he gave an ample and large account of the whole proceed: the King communicates it to the Council, who concluded to acquaint a Parliament with it, and forthwith a Parliament was summoned to meet in February following. Which being met, he declared the necessity of a mutual compliance betwixt a King and his Parliament; urging it with the parallel of Christ and his Church, the husband & the wife; and so falls upon the business, giving a short account of his Sons going to Spain, with Buckingham to attend him, and his endeavours therein for the peace and welfare of Christendom, and desires their advice and assistance for the good of the Commonwealth, Religion, his Son, his Children of the Palatinate, how that his Estate and welfare consisted with theirs, and that he was free to follow their advice; and concluded with serious and Christian Protestations, that never wayfaring man in the burning deserts more desired water to quench his thirst, than he thirsted and longed for the happy success of this Parliament. The House after debate desired a further account of the particulars, which accordingly was performed by the Duke of Buckingham and the Prince. Buckingham having satisfied the curiosity of a searching Parliament, was by them greatly esteemed and looked upon as the preserver of the Nation. The Parliament after nature Consideration, advise the King to break off the Treaty, and to proclaim open war; the King being naturally of a peaceful disposition, was very timorous of it, and urges his great want of money to maintain it, the Exchequer being much drained by his Son's Journey into Spain, Ambassadors, the maintenance of his Children abroad, who eat no other bread but by him; besides, he was loath to show his Teeth, and could not by't; he is willing to dissolve the Treaties, but if he should begin a war, God only knows when it will end, but he would engage his Son for the Recovery of the Palatinate, and in his old age will, if need require, assist in person, promising the disposal of the moneys to a Committee of Parliament. Forthwith a Council of War is chosen, who order 6000 men to be sent immediately into the Low Countries, in order to their passage into Germany. Buckingham is accused of treason by the Spanish Ambassador, but nothing came of it. The Prince growing in years, and in the favour of the people, the Treaty with Spain being nulled, some overtures are made for a Match with the Princes Henneretta Maria, the youngest sister of the French King; King James breaks it to his Privy Council, which jointly applaud it, a Parliament being summoned, and the business propounded, it was entertained by them with an unanimous consent, and proposed that an Ambassador be forth with sent to negotiate in behalf of the Match; the Earl of Holland is with all Expedition sent to feel the pulse of the French King, in whom he found a ready inclination, so that he could easily guess at the event; having advertised his Majesty of it, instantly the Earl of Carlisle is sent as an additional Ambassador to the Earl of Holland; the French King sends marquis D'Effait for, England in the quality of an Ambassador; the Noble Instruments plied their business so close, that on the tenth of November 1624. Articles on both sides were signed, & there wanted nothing for the Completing the Match, but a dispensation from Rome, for which the King of France solicited. In the Interim King James being molested with a tertian Ague, which drove him into a Fever, delivers up his soul to God the 27 of March 1625. at Theobalds', leaving his three Kingdoms to his Son. Various rumours passed among the people concerning a plaster which the Duke of Buckingham caused to be laid to the King's wrists; but his Physicians, Sir Matthew Lister, Dr Chambers, and others, being examined, cleared the Duke of that scandal. He was accounted and called Great Britain's Solomon, by some Courtiers; a General Scholar, and made all his Studies and Learning subservient to that of Divinity. He was a perfect hater of Arminianism, the Semipelagians, and of the calvinistical Presbyterian humour, which several times attempted to break forth in his Raigue, but he by his wisdom suppressed; an excellent Orator, and by some charged with Epicurism: A man studious of peace. The sad News of King James his death came to Whitehall just when Bishop Laud was in his Sermon, which made him to break off in compliance with the sadness of the Congregation. His Son Charles was immediately proclaimed at the Court Gate, King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, who presently, dispatcheth avisoes of his Father's death to all Confederate Princes and States to Next he took care for the solemn Interring of the Royal Corpse, which on the 14 of May was performed with all funeral Rites; his Statue was lively presented on a magnificent Hear, King Charles being present thereat. His funeral Sermon was preached by Dr William's Lord Keeper and Bishop of Lincoln. King James (by his death) had entailed a war and an empty Exchequer upon his Successor, which in all humane probability was the occasion of the great differences and vast breaches betwixt him and the people. The King, though much possessed with grief, yet there remained some part for love, he had still an eye toward France, and to manifest it, he sent out Letters of procuration to the Duke Chevereux to Espouse the Lady Heneretta Maria, which espousals were solemnly performed in the Church of Nostredam in Paris. The Bride prepares for England: the Duke of Buckingham and the Earl of Montgomery, with divers other Gentlemen of quality, were sent to attend her: At Boulogne she was attended with one and twenty Ships, and divers Ladies of Honour, and on Sunday the 12 of Jane 1625. she landed at Dover; the King then lay at Canterbury, and the next day met her at Dover, whence with all solemnity she was conducted to in London, where a Chapel was prepared for her devotion, with a Covent adjoining of Capuchin Friars, according to the Articles of Marriage. London at that time was much visited with the Contagion, which broke out under the same roof that it formerly did at King James his Initiation into the Government; and that which is more remarkable, on the same day. The King was not altogether Rapt up with the enjoyment of his dear Consort, but he was mindful of the affairs of State; summons a Parliament, which being met, he speaks to this purpose. My Lords and Gentlemen; You are not ignorant that at your earnest Entreaty, March 23d 1623. my Father of happy memory first took up Arms for the recovery of the Palatinate, for which purpose by your assistance he began to form a considerable Army, and to prepare a Goodly Armado and Royal Navy, but death intervening between him and the achievement, the war with the Crown is divolved upon me, to the prosecution whereof I am obliged both in nature and Honour: so I question not but the same necessity continuing, you'll cherish the Action with the like affection, and further it with a ready contribution. True it is, you furnished my father with affectionate supplies, but they hold no symmetry & proportino with the Charge of so great an enterprise; for those your donatives are all disbursed to a penny, and I am enforced to summon you hither, to tell you that neither can the Army advance, nor the Fleet set forth without further aid. Consider I pray you, the eyes of all Europe are defixt upon me, to whom I shall appear ridiculous, as though I were unable to out go Muster and Ostentation if you now desert me. Consider, it is my first attempt, wherein if I sustain a foil, it will blemish all my future Honour. If mine cannot, let your own reputation move you, deliver and expedite me fairly out of this war, wherewith you have encumbered (let it never be said, wherein you have betrayed) me. I desire therefore your speedy supply; speedy I call it, for else it will prove no supply: the Sun you know is entering into his declining point, so it will be soon too late to set forth, when it shall be rather too soon to return. Again, I must mind you of the mortality now Regnant in the City, which should it (as so it may, and no breach of proviledge neither) arrest any one member of either House, it would soon put a period both to consultation and session, so that your own periclitation necessitates an early resolution. In sum, three of the best Rhetoricians, Honour, Opportunity, and Safety, are all of a plot, and plead you see for expedition. Perhaps it may be expected. I should say something in way of account of my Religion, as also of the temper and tenure of my future Government; but as I hope I have not been guilty of any thing which may justly start the least question in either; so I desire you will repose in this assurance, that I will in neither vary from those principles wherein I have been instituted at the feet of that eminent Gamaliel my late Father. Which being ended, he vailed his Crown. This Speech I set down at large, it being the first, and I think not Inferior to any for Rhetoric. Though this Speech consisted of very pressing Arguments, yet the Parliament made but slow haste; for they had two Petitions, one for Religion, the other for Grievances: which were presented to King James the last Session, but received no answer: which Petitions were presented to the King with this pretence, that he might have time to consider and give a deliberate answer. To the Petition for Religion, his Majesty promised very fair: but to the Petition for Grievances, his Majesty gave very many satisfactory Answers; he caused the Accounts of the several disbursments relating to the Army and Navy, to be delivered in to the Parliament, which wrought such good effect, that they gave him freely two Subsidies from Protestants, four from Papists, and three from the Clergy. The King taking notice of the small appearance in the House by reason of the Infection, Adjourned the Parliament to Oxford; and the first of August the Parliament met at Oxford, where they presented his Majesty a Petition against Recusants, which the King readily and freely assented to. The King urgeth the speedy Contributions, which caused great debates, some were very free and willing, others were backward, and pretended the business was managed with green heads, speaking very unworthily of the Duke; the greater part that refused, resolved upon a Remonstrance; the King being informed of it, and fearing the distemper would grow too high, dissolves the Parliament. In September the States of Holland send over an Ambassador to request a League offensive and defensive, against their common enemies, the Emperor, and the King of Spain; which the King consented to, on condition they would bear a fourth part of the charge of the Fleet, Buckingham and Holland are sent over into the Low Countries, to advise with the Ambassadors of several Princes, about the restauration of the King's sister; but they were disappointed, for the Danes denied ability, the French unwilling; upon their return came the sad news of the ill success of our Fleet, who put out the 8 of October, and by the 12. were dissipated by reason of a furious storm, which was so violent, that 50 ships of 80 were missing for some time; the storm being over, a Council was called and concluded to annoy the Ships in Gades Bay, but finding it difficult by reason of a Fort just before it, orders were issued out to clear it or secure it in order to the design; but finding it Impregnable by Sea, they conclude to attempt it by Land, Captain Burroughs an experienced Commander, with a Regiment of foot was ordered for that service, who managed it with so much care, that a parley was immediately granted; the Sea-forces being permitted to go on shore, took such liking to the Spanish wines, that they grew disordered, which occasioned the Admiral to prevent further mischief to hasten home. The Contagion raging in London, Michaelmas Term was ordered at Redding, and special Instructions were given to the Judges to put in execution the Statutes against Recusants. February the 2d 1625. was the day appointed for the King's Coronation, which was performed with all usual and accustomed solemnity, except his passage through London, which saved some money, the Exchequer being low. A Parliament was called, and met the 6 of Feb. the Commons began where they left, concerning Religion; the Lords present the King with a Petition concerning Grievances of their order. The King promised speedy redress. Mr Pim of the Commons, discovers to the House a Letter, and signed to the Lord Mayor of York for reprieving some Priests and Jesuits: a Committee is ordered to examine it. The King being sensible of the necessities of the Kingdom, demands supply, and by Sir Richard Weston tells them, That the Fleet was returned, victuals spent, and the men in great necessity for want of pay, for which they were ready to mutiny, which would be of dangerous consequence; and that there were 40 sale ready to go out, which want a present supply; that the Army on the Sea-coast wants victuals, and clothes, with other pressing wants and necessities. In stead of a supply Mr Clement Coke, a Member of the House of Commons, Insolently delivers this; It is better to die by a foreign Enemy, then to be destroyed at home. The King being advised of it, was sensibly troubled at it, sends Sir Richard Weston to require satisfaction, but they made very slow haste in it, which occasioned him to summon both Houses together, and by the Lord Keeper delivers his mind in part to them in a large Speech (much in vindication of the Duke) which being ended, the King spoke as followeth. I must withal put you in mind of times past, you may remember my Father moved by your council and won by your persuasion, broke the Treaties. In these persuasions I was your Instrument towards him, and I was glad to be Instrumental in any thing which might please the whole body of the Realm; nor was there any one then in greater favour than this man whom you now traduce, and now when you find me so far entangled in war, that I have no honourable nor safe retreat; you make my necessity your privilege, and set what rate you please upon your supplies, a practice not very obliging toward Kings: Mr Coke told you it was better to die by a foreign Enemy, then to be destroyed at home. Indeed I think it is more honourable for a King to be invaded and almost destroyed by a fortaine Enemy, then to be despised at home. The Commons nothing startled at this, made a quick reply concerning the Remonstrance, the King would have them to dispatch business of greater concernment, and there would be time enough for that. But the Houses thought nothing of more concernment, then proceeding against the Duke; which gave occasion to the Lord Digby, who longed for nothing more than to exhibit 12 Articles against the Duke: The Duke being wary and vigilant, had long before provided Articles against Digby, though wanting one of the others number, which the next day were exhibited in Parliament. Many rejoiced at it, that by their quarrelling truth was discovered, and they were so equally matched, that it was hard to discover which had the better of it. But it rested not here, for within few days the Commons drew up 13 Articles against the Duke, & presented them to the Lords, and sent a message, desiring he might be committed. Sir Dudley Digs, and Sir John Eliot, two principal. Actors in the Charge, were serit to the Tower. The House Remonstrate to the King, upon which they were discharged; the Duke having made his defence, delivered it to the Lords, who sequestered him from sitting till the trial was over. The defence was expressed with a great deal of humility and modesty. But the Commons having gone so far, were resolved to bring it to an upshot, drew up a Declaration, to back it before the subsidies, at which the King being much Incensed, the next day, June 15. 1626. he dissolved the House; some interceding for some time, he replied, No not a minute. That very day was the Earl of Bristol committed to the Tower; and Proclamation for burning all Copies of the Commons Declaration before their dissolution. The breaking up of the Parliament was by some charged upon the King's Indulgence toward the Duke. The King of France pretending a martial design against Italy, and the Vatoline, craved of King James his aid, at whose request the King promised to lend the Vanguard, a gallant Ship of the Navy Royal; the Merchants on satisfaction to lend 6 more. The Rotchellers being most Huguenots, on pretence that the King had not slighted For Lewis, according to agreement, and taking the advantage of the Advance of the French Army for Italy, surprised the Isle of the, together with many Ships that were in the Harbour. King Lewis understanding of it, makes what warlike preparation possibly he could, requires aid of the Dutch. King Charles to perform his Father's promise, lends the Ships to King Lewis, who together with the French and Dutch Ships, fall on Subize the Stasiarch, the chief Rebel, retaketh his strong Holds, and chaseth him to the Isle of Oleron. King Charles being sensible of his Brothers mis-implying his Ships, sent to demand the restitution of them; who answered that his subjects detained them contrary to his mind, and that he might get them as he could. The King, not being satisfied with this demand, and wifely foreseeing it might occasion a further breach, looks home, and finds the French who attended the Queen, very insolent, who Imposed on the Queen a strange kind of penance, viz. That she should go barefoot from to Tyburn Gallows, to offer up her prayers for Priests and Jesuits there executed for treason. For which the King was very much discontented, and on the first of January 1626. he came to , attended by the Duke, and divers Officers of State, (all the Queen's servants and attendants being the day before summoned to attend) he spoke as followeth. Gentlemen and Ladies; I am driven to that Extremity, as that I am personally come to acqucint you, that I desire your return for France; true it is, the deportment of some amongst you hath been very inoffensive to me; but others again have so dallied with my patience, and so highly affronted me, that I cannot, I will no longer endure it. Divers endeavoured to excuse themselves, but the King replied, I name none: the Queen endeavoured to pacify the King, but it would not serve; for a special Order was signed for their departure, and sent the Lord Charlton to give his Brother a true account of that action. The French King being informed of his Message, would not permit him audience, but sent Monsieur the Marshal de Bassom Pierre, as extraordinary Ambassador, to demand their Restitution, who might as well have saved the labour, for it was in vain, the King would by no means permit it: all the Merchant's Ships were stopped by an Embargo at Bordeaux; which incensed the King so high, that he resolved on open wars with France. And accordingly in October a Fleet of thirty sail, under the Command of the Earl of Denbigh and the Lord Willowby, set out; which by a violent storm were very much damaged, and forced to return. Anno 1626. died the Reverend Prelate Bishop Andrews, a man very well skilled in the Oriental Languages, truly pious and devout. Three hundred thousand pound was borrowed by Loane toward the Relief of Rotchell, which was then intended to be besieged by the Duke of Guiz. On the 27 of June the Duke with six thousand horse and foot, and ten of the Navy Royal, assisted with ninety Merchant men, set sale for Portsmouth, and published a Manifesto of the Kings undertaking for the relief of the Protestants. Sir John Burroughs, with divers Gentlemen of quality, and 1200 Soldiers landed in the Isle of the, who were received by the French valiantly, which by their valour made it hard to distinguish who had the better. The Duke perceiving the backwardness of the French to engage, lands his horse, and sends Sir William Beecher with 500 foot and some horse, to the relief of Rotchell. Upon their approach to Sr martin's Town, the Inhabitants immediately fled into the Castle. The Duke being possessed of the Town, raised batteries against the Castle, where after he had lain before it two months without doing any considerable hurt, and by poisoning their springs, had almost enforced them to yield, had not Monsieur Balloon at high water by twelve Pinnaces in the dead of the night supplied their necessities; and on the 29 of October Martial Schomberg at Port dela Pray, landed 4000 foot, and 200 horse, who facing the besiegers, put them to a great fright: whereupon they resolve to rise & be gone, and in their retreat had divers skirmishes. The French with fury fell in on the rear of my Lord Mountjoys Troops, who endeavouring to fly, routed our own party; which the Enemy perceiving, pursue with violence. We lost in that Encounter near 2000 common Soldiers, and 50 Officers, prisoners of note 35. besides 100 common Soldiers, which the King dismissed out of respect to his Sister. But the Duke being returned with those few scattered Troops, the King resolves speedily to besiege Rotchell, endeavouring to gain the Town by famine, built three Forts, and drew a line toward the Land with many Redoubts within Musket-shot of the Town, and by the Advice of Cardinal Ritchlew made a Huge Boon or Barachado across the Channel, almost 1500 yards in length, leaving a small space for the ebbing and flowing of the Sea. The Rotchellers perceiving their utter ruin approaching, send over Deputies into England, to solicit the King in their behalf, who promised what assistance he could. The King's necessities were at that time very great, wanting almost what ever was necessary for a war. He resolves to summon a Parliament to meet on the 17th of March 1627. March 17. 1627. the Parliament met, Sir Jo. Finsh was chosen Speaker; And thus the King speaks to them: My Lords and Gentlemen, The times are for action, for action, I say, not for words, therefore I shall use but a few; and (as Kings are said to be exemplary to their subjects, so) I wish you would imitate me in this, and use as few, falling upon speedy consultation. No man is, I conceive, such a stranger to the common necessities, as to expostulate the cause of this meeting, and not to think supply to be the end of it; and as this necessity is the product & consequent of your advice, so the true Religion, the Laws and Liberties of this state, and Just defence of our friends and allies, being so considerably concerned, will be I hope argument enough to persuade supply; for if it be, as most true it is, my duty and yours to preserve this Church and Commonwealth, this exigent time certainly requires it. In this time of common danger, I have taken the most ancient speedy and best way for supply, by calling you together, if (which God forbidden) in not contributing, what may answer the quality of my accasions, you do not your duties, it shall suffice I have done mine. In the conscience whereof I shall rest content, and take some other course, for which God hath empowered me to save that, which the folly of some particular men might hazard to lose. Take not this as a menace (for I scorn to threat my inferiors) but as an admonition from him who is tied both by nature and duty to provide for your preservation; and I hope though I thus speak, your demeanour will be such as shall ablige me in thankfulness to meet you oftener, than which nothing shall be more pleasing to me. Remembering the distractions of our last meeting, you may suppose I have no confidence of good success at this time; but be assured I shall freely forget and forgive what is past, hoping you will follow that sacred advice lately inculcated to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. The Parliament being deeply affected with the necessities of our neighbour Protestant's and friends in eminent danger, forthwith granted five subsidies with unanimous consent; Secretary Cook brings the news to the King, who wept for joy, and bid him tell them, he would deny them nothing of their just liberties. Immediately the House fall upon the people's libertyes, and vote, that no freeman be imprisoned by King or Council, without legal cause alleged. They draw up a petition to this effect: 1. That no person be compelled to make, give, or yield any gift, loan, benevolence, tax, but by common consent of Parliament. 2. That no freeman be imprisoned or detained of his liberty, but by the Laws of the Land. 3. That the soldiers and mariners be removed from billeting, and the people eased for the time to come. 4. That martial Law be revoked. Which petition was presented, to which his Majesty gave a speedy answer, with plenary satisfaction, and withal told them, he having done his part, if the Parliament have not a happy conclusion, the sin was theirs, he was free. Which answer was received with great acclamation and Joy. The House having fared so well, fall a ripping up of old fores, and drew up a Remonstrance, which reflected upon the Duke, at which the King stood amazed. They likewise were drawing a Bill against Tonnage and Poundage, which the King would by no means permit. On the 26 of June the King prorogued the Parliament to the 20 of October; and in his speech made an ample illustration of his concessions to the petition of right, which by some was accounted a great failing. And now a 3d Fleet is reasdy at Portsmouth, for the relief of Rotchel. The Duke was very diligent in preparation, when on the 23 of August 1628. the Duke having prepared himself to wait on the King (who made that in his progress) called for his breakfast; the Duke comes down from his chamber to a lower parlour. where taking leave of Sir Tho. Friar one of his Colonels, Just as he was going in, one Felton stabbed him to the heart with a knife, which the Duke took out, but the effusion of the blood was so great, that he died instantly: the Earl of Cleveland and others that were within hearing, reported, that the murderer seconded his blow with these words, The Lord have mercy upon thy soul. The murderer immediately went into the Kitchen; the report throughout the house was, where's the murderer, which he misconstrued, her's the murderer, suddenly starting, cried, I am he; who was immediately secured, and hardly escaped the fury of the servants: The King was at his devotion when the news was brought, who was not in the least startled at it. The commons rejoice at it, and by this means hoped of a freer and more permanent correspondency betwixt the King and people, which the event suddenly showed. The Duke's body was interred the 25 of September, at Westminster, at the charge of his Executors. Felton was arraigned at the King's bench-bar, who upon examination confessed, That the only motive that induced him to the fact, was the late Remonstrance of the Commons, and that he could not sacrifice his life to a nobler cause, then by delivering his Country from so great an enemy. He being found guilty, was hanged at Tyburn, and his body afterwards sent to Portsmouth to be hanged in Chains. This tragic act nothing hindered the Fleets motion, which by the personal industry & care of the King, set fail from Portsmouth the 8 of September 1628. the Earl of Linsey being Admiral, and being arrived at the mouth of the haven, found that monstrous Boon and Baracado finished, which was designed by Cardinal Ritchlew, a cross wind suddenly arose & beat them back with great confusion, which the Rotchellers beholding from the bulwarks, immediately set open the gates and submitted themselves wholly to the King, who entered the 8 of October, and found only four thousand remaining of twenty two thousand; the Fleet upon the news returned home safe. A Proclamation was proclaimed against Papists. The 20 of October the Parliament met, divers complaints and petitions were exhibited touching the seizing of merchant's goods for Tonnage and Poundage. The King had notice of it, summons them to the banqueting house, and thus speaks: The occasion of that meeting was a complaint made in the lower House for staying some merchant's goods, for denying Tonnage and Poundage, which difference might be soon decided, were his words and actions rightly understood; for if he did not take these duties as appendices to his hereditary prerogative, and had declared he challenged them not of right, and only desired to enjoy them by the gift of his people, why did they not pass the Bill as they promised to him, to clear his bypast actions and future proceed, especially in this his time of so great necessity. Therefore he did now expect they should make good what they promised, and put an end to all questions emergent to their delay. Two Committees were appointed, one for Religion, the other for civil affairs; that for Religion report, that upon due inspection they find it in a very tottering and declining condition: The other report, that many merchants had had their goods seized for not paying the customs of Tonnage and Poundage, being then against the Petition of Right and privilege of Parliament; for which Sr Jo. Worsham, M. Daws, M. Carmarthen, Farmers of the Customs, were required to give an account. The King intervenes, and tells the Parliament that what they did was as men addicted to his command, neither were they commissionated to take it as a due debt, but he presumed the Parliament would perform their large professions and grant it by bill. They replied the Farmers did it without warrant, the warrant being only to levy and collect, not to seize; for the Bill they desired his pardon, being to insist on matters of Religion first. The King requests them to forbear prosecuting these men, and intimated that what they did was by his warrant. The House in great discontent adjourned for some few days, and being met again, they resolved upon a Remonstrance, which the Speaker refusing to read, and offering to rise, Mr. Hollis held him, and swore he should fit there so long as they pleased; which not prevailing; Mr. Hollis read these ensuing Articles as the Protestation of the House. 1. Whosoever should bring in Innovation of Religion, or by favour seek to introduce Popery, or Arminianism, or other opinions disagreeing from the true and orthodox Church, shall be reputed a Capital enemy to the Kingdom and Common wealth. 2. Whosoever shall council or advise the taking and levying the subsidies of Tonnage and Poundage, not being granted by Parliament, or shall be an actor or instrument therein, shall be reputed a Caitall enemy to this Commonwealth. 3. If any man shall voluntarily yield or pay the said Subsidies of Tonnage and Poundage, not being granted by Parliament, he shall be reputed a beirayer of the Liberties-of England, and an enemy to the Commonwealth. At which the House gave a great shout. The King advised of it, sent the Usher of the black rod to dissolve the Parliament who would not be admitted; Sir Miles Hobert locked the door. The King incensed at their contempt, sent for the Captain of the Pensioners and the Guard to force a passage, the members fearing the issue, slunk away. The King went presently into the House of Lords, and delivered his mind as followeth. My Lords; I never came here upon so unpleasing an occasion, it-being the dissolution of a Parliament; therefore you may have some cause to wonder why I should not rather choose to do this by Commission, it being a general Maxim of Kings to leave harsh commands to their Ministers, themselves only Executing pleasing things; yet considering that Justice consists as well in reward and praise of virtue, as punishment of vice, I thought it necessary to come here to day, to declare to you, and all the world, that it was merely the undutiful and seditious carriage of the Lower House, that hath made the dissolution of this Parliament; and you my Lords, are so far from being causes of it, that I take as much comfort in your dutiful demeanour, as I am justly distasted with their proceed: yet to avoid mistake, Let me tell you, that it is so far from me to adjudge all that House guilty, that I know there are many there as dutiful subjects as any in the World, it being but some few Vipers among them that cast this mist of undutifulness over most of their eyes; yet to say truth, there was a good number there that could not be infected with this contagion; in so much that some did express their duties in speaking, which was the General fault of the House the last day. To conclude, as these Vipers must look for their reward of punishment; so you, my Lords, must justly expect from me that favour and protection that a good King oweth to his loving and dutiful subjects. And now my Lord Keeper do what I command you; who in the King's name dissolved the Parliament. The Parliament being dissolved, the King sets forth a Declaration of the Causes, Grounds, and Motives, that caused him to dissolve them, together with an account of all the Transactions of this and the last Parliament. Not long after the King sent for ten of the last Parliament to appear at the Council Table, viz. Mr. Hollis, Sir Miles Hobert, Sir John Eliot, Sir Peter Hayman, Mr. Selden, Mr. Stroud, Mr. Correton, Mr. Valentine, Mr. Long, Mr. Kirton, who having been examined by the Lord Treasurer, some were sent to the Tower, some to the Gatehouse, others to the Fleet: which afterward begot a very high controversy in Law. The Queen being affrighted, was before her time delivered of a Son, who was baptised Charles, which lived not above two hours. The States of Venice sent over an Ambassador to mediate for a peace betwixt us & the French, which was concluded in eight Articles, and confirmed with solemn Oaths on both sides. Two great Reasons were given for the King's sudden consent to a peace; the one was the ill success and bad fortune that always attended his warlike designs; the other and main, the sinews of war being dried and shrunk up, the Exchequer was very barren. Peter Reuben, the famous Painter of Antwerp, came over into England, and made overtures of a peace with Spain, by offering the restitution of the Palatinate (than which nothing was more desirable of the King) but he had not full power to perform. On the 29 of May 1630. the Queen was delivered of her second Son, who was baptised the 27 of June at St James', with all Princely ceremony, and named Charles, which caused great rejoicings and acclamations among the people, excepting the Puritan party. At his birth a Star appeared visibly at noon day, just as the King went to St Paul's Church to give thanks; where he was presented with these Verses. When to Pauls-Cross the Grateful King draw ne'er, A shining Star did in the Heavens appear; Thou that consults with divine Mysteries, Tell me what this bright Comet signifies: Now is there borne a valiant Prince i'th' West, That shall Eclipse the Kingdoms of the East. The King being deeply sensible of his brother's miseries, and being informed of a Diet at Ratsbone, sent Sir Robert Anstruther Ambassador to the Emperor, and Estates in Germany, to mediate in his brother's behalf; to which the Emperor returned Answer, that no foreign business was to be meddled withal at the Diet, but as soon as possibly he could, he would do that which might be for his Honour, and he hoped to his Majesty's content: upon which the Ambassador returns. One Layton, a Rigid Presbyter, who published a book, called Zions' Plea, (in which he excited the Parliament and People to kill all the Bishops. Very abusive also to the Queen, calling her the Daughter of Heth a Canaanite, an Idolatress) was sentenced in the Star-Chamber to have his nose slit, his ears cropped, and stigmatised in the forehead; which he for some time prevented, by an Escape out of the Fleet, but being taken, underwent it. The Peace betwixt England and Spain was at last concluded, the Articles being the same in effect, with those that were betwixt King James and Philip the Third, excepting that the King of Spain should dispose of all his Interest in the Emperor toward the restitution of the Palatinate; which was proclaimed Sunday the 27 of November 1630. with Great solemnity. April the 25. 1631. Mervin, Lord Audley, Earl of Castle-Haven, was arraigned at the Kings-Bench. Bar, before Thomas Lord Coventry, who for that day was appointed Lord High Treasurer of England, he being found Guilty of Rape and Sodomy, was by his Peers condemned, and Executed the 14 of May at Tower hill. And on the 27 of June following, Mr. Broadway, and Fitz Patrick, servants to, and concriminaries with the Lord Audley, were tried at the Kings-Bench-Bar, and being found Guilty, the one of Rape, the other of Sodomy, were condemned, and on the sixth of July were executed at Tyburn. The Queen was the 4th of November, 1631. delivered of her eldest Daughter, who was baptised Mary. December 2d, 1632. The King was visited with the small Pox, but by God's blessing soon recovered. Anno 1632. The Church of St Paul (which by the pious zeal of our Ancestors was raised to that huge bulk, that all Christendom was not able to parallel) being through age decayed, was by the piety of his Majesty, the Bishops, the Nobility, Gentry, and Commonalty of the Nation, begun to be repaired, and a very great progress was made therein, but the unhappy differences of the Nation ensuing caused its obstruction. Anno 1633. The King having been often solicited to go into Scotland, in order to his personal Coronation; on the 13th of May he sets forward, with a Princely Train: most of the English Nobility, all the Scots that attended here; and on the way was very Nobly treated by divers of the Nobility and Gentry, ospecially by the Earl of Newcastle at Welbeck. On the 10 of June he came safe to Edinburgh, where he was Crowned with all outward seeming affection; and on the 20 of July returned safe to the Queen at Greenwich. In the beginning of August died the Reverend Prelate, George Abbot, Archbishop of Canterbury; William Laud then of London immediately succeeded him. October the 13th 1633. the Queen was delivered of her second Son, who was baptised James; and on the 24 of the same month was by Letters patent created Duke of York. The King taking into his Princely care the Irreverend and remiss service of God in the Kingdom of Scotland, sent Orders to be observed by the Dean of his Chapel, as in England. 1 That prayer be said twice a day, according to the English form. 2 The Sacrament to be administered once a month, and to be received Kneeling. 3 That he which Officlates on Holy days, do it in his Surplice. Which though backed with a Letter, requiring exact obedience, the Deane durst not perform, for fear of discontenting the people. The King by the Advice of the Bishops and Council, Revived his Father's Declaration for tolerating Lawful Sports on the Sunday, which gave great distaste to the people, especially to the puritanical party. On the second of February being Candlemas day at night, the King and Queen were entertained at White Hall with a Mask of the Gentlemen of the Inns of Court; The like was never in England seen before for State and Magnificence; and afterward were Royally entertained by the Lord Mayor of London, with a stately Feast and Banquet. 1634. The English Coast was much perplexed with Pirates of several Nations, and the King's Dominion in the narrow Seas evidently usurped by the Dutch, and defended by Grotius in his book, Entitled, Mare Liberum; which was exactly Answered by the Learned Selden in his Book, Entitled, Mare Clausum. The Exchequer at that time was very much drained: The King having tied himself up by granting the Petition of Right, could not tax or levy money without consent of Parliament, and how to expect it from them, with whom he had parted so foully, he could not imagine. He declares his Intentions to his Attorney Noy, together with the Necessity of raising money, but desires it to be done Legally, who after much study and pains finds out an ancient precedent of raising a Tax for setting forth a Navy in case of danger without a Parliament. The King was very glad of it, Writs were Instantly Issued out to the Seaport Towns, to raise money for a certain number of Ships well provided, for the safety of the Nation: they complained that it equally concerned the whole Nation; upon which a Tax was laid throughout the whole Kingdom, every one endeavoured to excuse it; and some alleged it was against the Petition of Right, it being done out of Parliament, which begat a great quarrel. Great Contest happened in Ireland this year between the Protestants and Papists; which occasioned the Lord Strafford, than Lord Deputy to summon a Parliament, for the raising of moneys, for the payment of the Army, and the King's Revenue, which was managed with so much wisdom and prudence by the Lord Deputy, that he obtained his desire. There was likewise a Synod called, wherein the Articles of 1615 were repealed, and the 39 Articles of the Church of England established in their room: they did likewise unanimously declare their consent and agreement with the Church of England in the profession of the same Christian faith. The Scots were now Hatching mischievous designs against the King, which they coloured with specious pretences; as, The Kings endeavouring to Entrench on their Liberties, and after some time were so Insolent as to charge the King with favouring of Papists, in a desperate Libel, which by the care and diligence of the Lords of the Council was suppressed: the Author was discovered to be one Hag, and the principal abettor the Lord Bellamore, who being found Guilty, received the sentence of death, but upon his application to the King's mercy was pardoned. The 29 of September (by the procurement of the Earl of Arundel) one Robert Parr aged 160) was brought to London, one of the wonders of this last age. In November following, the Prince Elector came to London, to tender his respect to his Uncle, and to solicit touching his restitution; and not long after came his second Brother Prince Robert. On the 28 of December 1635. was borne the King's second Daughter, and was the second of January baptised Elizabeth. March the sixth, William Juxson, Lord Bishop of London, was made Lord Treasurer; a man of great Piety and Integrity. At this time, if ever might England be said to be in a happy condition; the Church the most Glorious and splendid that ever was since the Apostles times; the Civil Government managed by a King, who for piety and morality was not Inferior to any in the Christian world; Encompassed about with peace on all sides; what mortal would ever have imagined, that this bright Sunshine of Felicity should be so soon Eclipsed. William Land, Lord Archbishop of Canterbury, taking notice of the careless observance of the Ecclesiastical Canons, which he strictly put in practice in his solemn Visitation, and in his zeal gave order for the Removing of the Communion Table to the East end of the Church, upon an ascent, and to be railed In, to prevent profanation; which gave great distaste to the puritan party, who charged him with Innovation. 1636. In July set forth the King's Royal Fleet, to scour the Seas of Pirates, and to prevent the Entrenching of the Hollander in Fishing upon our Coasts, which was effected; but by their humble Request, the King Indulgently Granted them Liberty. In September the Earl of Arundel was sent Extraordinary Ambassador (attended by a Noble Train) to the Emperor, to solicit in behalf of the Prince Elector, who being wearied with delays, returned in a discontent. The unhappy Controversy of Ship-money began now to be disputed. The Writs for raising Ship-money having been formerly Issued out, divers refused to pay, among the rest Mr. Hamden of Buckingham-shire, by wilful default refused, and desired it might be argued in Law, which occasioned the King to write a Letter to Sir John Brampston, Lord Chief Justice of the King's Bench, Sir John Finsh, Lord Chief Justice of the Court of Common Pleas, Sir Humphrey Davenport, Baron of the Exchequer, and to the rest of The Judges of the several Courts, to know their opinion, who jointly and severally gave their opinion, that it was Lawful: upon which, Process is immediately Issued out against Mr. Hamden, who demurred and desired the Judge's opinion, which was argued in the Exchequer, the Major part was for the King, only Judge Crook and Judge Hutton seemed to favour the other party, but Judgement was passed by the Barons against Hamden. On the 17 of March 1636. was borne Anne the King's third Daughter. In June following, Mr. Prin, Dr Bastwick, and Mr. Burton, three violent and restless spirited men, were sentenced in the High Commission Court, for seditious and scandalous Libels, by them made and dispersed against the Bishops, and their Ecclesiastical Government; which sentence was by some accounted harsh and severe. The King knowing the necessity of a mutual Compliance in matters of Religion, and understanding his Father's Intention in composing a Liturgy for the Church of Scotland, Order the Bishop of Canterbury, the Bishop of Ely, together with divers other Bishops of both Nations, to revise and correct, as they should think meet, the Service, Compiled in his Father's life time, (which very little differed from that of England) order it to be sent to the Council in Scotland to be made use of. When on the 23 of July 1637: the Dean of Edinburgh began to read the Book in St Giles Church, a sudden uproar began by the women and base sort of people; The Bishop appointed to preach goes into the Pulpit, hoping to convince them of their Irreverend Carriage, which nothing prevailed, for they were the more Insolent, flinging stones, stools, and what ever else came next to hand, so that he hardly escaped with life. Divers other Churches were likewise Infested with the like fury and madness; but by the Industry of the Archbishop of St Andrews, Lord Chancellor, and other Magistrates, the tumult was appeased, some were afterward apprehended, and endeavours made to find out the first beginner. But it rested not here, for not long after it was observed, that a great concourse of people from all parts of that Kingdom came to Edinburgh, which occasioned the Lords of the Council to put forth several Proclamations to prevent the like disorders; but they nothing prevailed; for the next day the Bishop of Galloway going to the Council, was followed by a great multitude, railing and reviling him, until he came to the Councell-doore, where he was no sooner entered, but they beset the House with very great multitudes, threatening destruction to all that were within. The Council immediately require aid of the Provost and other Magistrates of the City, who return answer, that they were in the like danger. The tumult still increasing, they of the City were forced for the safeguard of their own lives to subscribe as followeth. 1. To join in opposition to the Service-Book, and to Petition against it. 2. To restore Ramsey and Rollock, two silenced Ministers. 3. To receive in Mr Henderson, formerly silenced. Which being signed, the Council thought was a good step to suppress the tumult, but entering into the High street, The Lord Treasurer and other Lords were afresh assaulted, trodden underfoot, and brought back by violence to the Council-house, where being in great danger, they require aid of divers Noblemen disaffected to the Common-prayer-book, who promised what assistance they possibly could, and in the end returned home safe. In the afternoon proclamation was made at the cross of Edinburgh, for prevention of the like disorders, but to small effect; some Citizens demanding the restitution of the Ministers, and the performance of what was subscribed. Suddenly two petitions were presented against the Common-prayer book, and the Composers and Abettors of it, which petitions were sent to the King (with the narrative of the whole) who immediately sent instructions for adjourning the Term to Sterling a strong place, and to make proclamation of severe penalties to be inflicted on the breakers and contemners of the peace; which was no sooner proclaimed, but the Lord Hume, Lindsey and divers others protest against it, and in contempt of Authority, compelled the Heralds to hear the Protest, or Covenant read, all which being imparted to the King, he sends marquis Hamilton as high Commissioner, to settle peace, and a right understanding, who dealt treacherously and deceitfully, trifling away eleven month's time, having three times returned to and again for England, and at last published the King's gracious Proclamation, nulling the Service book, and high Commission, promising an Assembly to be held at Glascow, Novem. 21. 1638. and a Parliament at Edinburgh the 15. of May 1639, but this nothing satisfied, for the more the King granted, the more averse they were. During the treaty the Covenanters had provided Officers, Arms, and what was necessary for a war. The General Assembly being met, they proceed to declare against the Book of Common prayer, which occasioned the Bishops to draw up a protest against their proceed, and in conclusion by the Unanimous consent of all the Council, excepting Argile, the Assembly was dissolved. Proclamation was made and published throughout the Nation, showing the grounds and reasons of their dissolution, which proclamation was opposed by the Covenanters, with a protestation to adhere to all their former Covenants to put by all the Bishops: Some they excommunicate, and not long after totally abolished Episcopacy, as being (as they pretended) inconsistent with the word of God and Laws of that Nation. Which occasioned the marquis and Commissioners to return for England seemingly much discontented. In the interim the Covenanters began to raise Arms, Levy soldiers, Impose taxers upon the people, seize some of the King's Castles, raise fortifications, and prepare for a war, and chose David Lesley an old soldier to be General. Toward the latter end of October 1638. came the queen mother into England, many of the Common people were troubled at it, as being generally by them looked upon as a forerunner of a greater mischief. The Scots are very high and insolent, assuming all authority, and invent new and unheard of Judicatures in defiance to the King and Council; and having cast of Episcopal Jurisdiction, declare for the Calvinistical presbyterian Government which for a long time had been hatching in that Kingdom, but could never take head till then. The King to suppress their insolency, by the advice of the Bishops, prepares an Army, which they contributed very largely to, and being backed with the assistance of the Nobility and Gentry, a considerable force is raised, the Earl of Arundel being made General. The King on the 17 of March, the day of his Inauguration advances against the Scots. The Scots hearing of the Kings advance, march forward under the Conduct of their General David Lesley to meet him, with Petition in one hand, and their Arms in the other, and on the 28 of May both Armies came within view. The Scots after some time sent to treat about a pacification, the King willingly consented to it; and for the English were chosen the Earls of Holland, Pembroke, Salishury, and Berkshire, and Sir Henry Vane: for the Presbyterian Covenanters, the Earl, of Rothes and Dunferling, Lord Louden. Douglas, Archibald, Johnson, and Alexander Henderson; Who after much Consultation conclude Articles of pacification on both sides, which were signed the 18 of June. Which Articles were as follow. On the King's part. 1. His Majesty to confirm what his Commissioners promised in his name. 2. That a General Assembly be called to sit at Edinburgh, August 6. 3. That a Parliament be called and sit at Edinburgh the 20 of August. 4. That he recall all forces by sea and land, and restore all ships arristed and detained since the pretended Assembly at Glascow, upon the Covenanters disarming and dishanding of their forces, dissolving their tables, and restoring to the King all his castles, forts and ammunition, and releasing all the persons, lands and goods, then under restraint since the pretended Assembly at Glascow. This to be done by declaration. On the Covenantes' part, 1. All the forces of Scotland to be disbanded within forty eight hours after publication of the King's declaration. 2. They to render up after the said publication, all Castles, Forts, Ammunition of all sorts, so soon as the King should send to receive them. 3. They to hold no meetings, treatings or consultations, but such as are warranted by act of Parliament. 4. They to desist from all fortifications and these to be remitted to the King's pleasure. 5. They to restore to all the King's subjects their lands, liberties, houses, goods, and means taken or detained from them since the first of Feb. last. Notwithstanding the declaration, the Scots are still averse, and draw up a Protestation of sticking close to the late General Assembly at Glascow, and to their solemn Covenant, and perfidiously broke all their Articles of agreement, continue their meetings, neglect slighting the fortification and continue their officers in pay; which with many other insolences, compelled the King to consider of reducing them to obedience. The King fummons his Privy Council, who conclude a Parliament to be called the 13 of April 1640, and for the present, each of the Council (except Hamleton who pretended poverty) subscribed large Contributions for the carrying on of the war, until such time as the Parliament should convene, which was a leading card for the rest of the Nobility, the Judges and others. The Scots being informed of the King's Preparation for a war, sent the Lord Dunferling, Lord Louden, Sir Will. Douglas, and M. Markham, as Commissioners to represent the affairs of their transactions, which were friendly received by the King, and he well hoped that all differences might be composed with lenity and gentleness: but it could not possibly be, for during the treaty most of the Nobility that wished well to the King's interest in Scotland are imprisoned, procured old soldiers out of Holland, made divers fortifications, required aid of the King of France, and by colouring their designs with the pretence for Religion and the cause of God, they had gained a very strong party here in England. By this time Episcopacy was totally extirpated in Scotland, and the Presbyterian Contagion began to reign here in England. The Bishop of Canterbury, a man learned, pious and devout (though unseasonably zealous) was by the vulgar looked upon as a great friend and favourer of Popery, by reviving ancient Ceremonies in the Church, and service of God, which gave great occasion of discontent to the more precise and godly party. On the 13 of April 1640. the Parliament began, and were composed for the most part of persons of Honour, affectionate to Religion, and their Country, only some sew violent restless spirited men, that endeavoured to represent all the transactions of the King in the most ugly colours. The King laid before them the treacherons designs of the Scots, and demands 12 subsidies, Mr. Pim and divers other members made long speeches, reciting the greivances both of Church and State, which were very many; for it is with Government both Ecclesiastical & Civil, as it is with watches, that how good and excellent soever they be, length of time disorders them, they urge that there was never more need of redressing grievances, and that would be the only way to procure the Subsidies required. The King promised to redress the grievances afterward. The King seeing them very backward concerning the Subsidies which his pressing necessities called for, on the sift of May came into the House, and dissolved the Parliament, using Civil Language, protesting that he would govern as much according to Law, as if a Parliament were constantly sitting; yet Mr Bellosis, and Sir John Hotham were committed for speeches a small time, and Mr Crew Chaireman to the Committee for Ministers, was committed to the Tower for refusing to discover some Petitions presented to the Parliament. The Convocation now sitting had form an Oath for maintaining their Hierarchy, (as the Scots on the other side had Covenanted for the destruction of Episcopacy;) for which they were much blamed by many good men. They likewise granted a large Contribution of 45. in the pound for six years to be assessest on all the Clergy of England, toward the carrying on of the Scotch war, which was looked upon as Illegal, being without consent of Parliament. And now the English in Imitation of the Scots, began in a rude manner to assault the Archbishop of Canterbury (as they did the Archbishop of St Andrews) conceiving him to be the only man that advised the King to break up the Parliament; and on Monday the 16 of May 1640. a great number of rude disordered persons meet together, and go to his house at Lambeth, beset it, but he being forewarned had sufficiently provided for his own safety. Some of the principal were apprehended, and committed to the White Lion in Southwark, which not long after was violently by the multitude broke open, and the prisoners discharge. One of the Principal Riag-leaders was afterwards apprehended, and condemned to be hanged drawn and quartered, to terrify the rest. The King being in want, applies himself to the City for supply, but they being discontented at the last dissolution, pretend poverty, a likely thing, after so many years of peace, plenty, and prosperity, as they had enjoyed under his Government; besides they are a little troubled at the questioning of their London-Dery Lands in Ireland by the Star-Chamber. They Gentry were generally more free, and afforded large Contributions, by which means the Army began to Muster, the Earl of Northumberland was appointed General, and the Earl of Strafford Lieutenant General; but both being indisposed in health, the King resolved to go himself in person. In July 1640. The Queen was delivered of a Son, who was baptised Henry. August 20. 1640. The King advances toward the North, the Army having rendevouzed some days before; whether being come, he was informed of the sad disaster of a defeat given by Lessly to 1200 Horse and 3000 foot, under the Command of the Lord Conway, who were lest to secure the pass over the River Tine, near Nuburne; as likewise Sir Jacob Astley Governor of Newcastle, quit the Town, after he had sunk all the Ordinance, as being no way tenable. By this time the Earl of Strafford was recovered, and came to his command, much troubled at my Lord Conways loss; which Conway stoutly alleged, was neither through neglect nor oversight. Yet notwithstanding the Covenanters had a Check in their own Country, Lesley having left some superfluous Ordnance at Dounse, which the Garrison of Warwick being advertised of, adventure forth, and did seize them; which alarumed the Earl of Haddington, who with 2000 horse and foot pursue, and with a very sharp Encounter rescue them, which were carried back to Duglasse. The Earl being at dinner the next day with divers Knights and Gentlemen in a room over the Magazine of Powder, in the midst of their mirth they were suddenly blown up, whether by easualty or on purpose, it was not known. In September following, the King was at York presented with a Petition, subscribed by eleven of the English Nobility; To which he made Answer as followeth. Before the receipt of your Petition, his Majesty well foresaw the danger that threatens himself and Crown, and therefore resolveth the twenty-fourth of this month to summon all the Peers, and with them to consult what in this case is fittest to be done, for his own honour, and safety of the Kingdom, where they with the rest may offer any thing that may conduce to these ends. And accordingly they were by Writs from the Lord Keeper summoned to attend the 24 of September. Great were the sufferings at that time of the Northern Counties; for Lesley the Scots General had imposed a tax of 350 l. per diem on the Bishopric of Durham; and 300 l. per diem on Northumberland, on penalty of plundering; and likewise seize divers English Ships laden with Corn in Newcastle Road, as lawful prize. On the 24 of September, the Lords assembled at York, where it was resolved that a Parliament should assemble the third of November following, and to desire a speedy Treaty with the Scots at York; the Scots replied, it was no way safe for them, by reason that my Lord of Strafford, General of the King's Army, had proclaimed them traitors in Ireland, before the King had done it in England; he being an utter Enemy to them, and one whom they did Intent to Impeach. At last Rippon is the place agreed on; The Commissioners on both sides are Chosen; The Scots present their demands to this purpose. 1. To consider how their Army should be maintained till the Treaty be ended, and their peace secured. 2. If more Commissioners be required, they may be conveyed with safety. 3. All Intercourse of Letters betwixt them, and the Parliament, to be conveyed with safety. 4. That there may be a free correspondency of Commerce with Newcastle, especially for Victuals. Which Proposals at first seemed very hard to the English, who thought it more reason first to provide for their own Army; but the Conquering sword decides the Controversy. The English must yield to the Scots unreasonable demands. After many meetings of the Commissioners, at last in thirteen Articles they agreed upon a cessation, which was signed by the King the 16 of October: but the Grand Treaty, was by their supplication to the King, appointed at London; and in the mean time all acts of Hostility to cease. At that time the Earl of Montrosse, who had acted all along with the Covenanters, began to discover the treacherous Designs of the Scots; and now plainly saw that they meant nothing less than what they pretended, viz. The Honour of his Majesty, and the preservation of Religion (as always the vilest actions, are covered with the most specious pretences) yet was so wise as not presently to discover himself, but from time to time advertized his Majesty of the proceed; which Letters by Hambiltons' advice were taken out of the King's pockets, transcribed and sent to the Covenanters, who dissembled it to the Earl, but cast dirt in his face, raising frivolous aspersions, endeavouring to make him odious to the people. Great was the Expectation of the whole Kingdom for the happy meeting of the Parliament, and every small obstruction was looked on as a great Impediment, many Good men hoped for the redress of Grievances; others waited to spit that venom, which they had a long time contracted. In November 1640. the Parliament began, where the King in a Gracious Speech, declared his earnest desire for the happiness and prosperity of the Kingdom, giving an account of the Scotch war, and desired them, as he promised he would, to lay aside all prejudice, and he would now clearly and freely put himself upon the love and affection of his English subjects; desiring them to consider the best way for the safety and security of the Kingdom of England, and in order to it, for satisfaction of their just Grievances, wherein he would hearty concur, that the world might see his Intentions were to make this a Glorious and flourishing Kingdom; freely leaving it to them where to begin; and concluding, That it should not be his fault if this were not a good and happy Parliament. Many Members made long Speeches about Grievances, as Sir Ben: Ruddier, Mr. Grimston, Mr. Pim, Sir John Clotworthy, and others, which were backed by divers other Members. Their first business was to Vindicate distressed Ministers, divers were enlarged, and restored to their former Live. Many Petitions were presented from most parts of the Kingdom for Redress of Grievances. The Lords complain that the privileges of their House were broken, because the Earl of Warwick, and the Lord Brooks, had their Studies and Cabinets searched. The House discharged Mr. Prin, Mr. Burton, and Dr Bastwick out of prison; and Voted Mr. Burton 6000 l. damage: Mr. Prin and Dr Bastwick 5000 l. a piece. Mr. Denzill Hollis, not many days after, was sent from the Commons to the Lords to Impeach the Earl of Strafford of High Treason; Mr. Pim made a report to the House what Capital Crimes were objected against him, upon which in fourteen Articles he is Charged by Mr. Pim. The Earl is forthwith sequestered the House, and committed to the Black Rod. On the 18 of December, Bishop Wren, and Bishop Laud, are Voted by the Commons Guilty of High Treason, and a Charge was immediately brought in against Bishop Laud, upon the Reading of which he is ordered to the Tower, but upon his request was respited for two days. Sir Francis Windibanke principal Secretary of State fled, and not long after him my Lord Finsh, one that had been very Active for Ship-money, which was then Voted Illegal; and most of the Judges were Voted Delinquents. The Parliament began to strike a terror into all that had any way offended, or had been violent in action, both in Church and State. In December Alderman Penington with a great multitude out of London (for now it was customary for Petitioners to come in great numbers) Petitioned the House against Episcopal Government, and other Ceremonies of the Church, of which a Committee was appointed to consider. The Armies in the North lay heavy upon the Kingdom, which moved the House to allow 100000 l. toward their present pay, and the money to be borrowed of the City of London, until the same be raised by subsidy. The King summons both Houses together to the Banqueting House, and declares himself not satisfied with their slow proceed, and the Great Charge of maintaining two Armies; next of the low condition of his Navies and Forts, whereby his enemies are encouraged, and his friends disheartened; and likewise took notice of divers strange Petitions presented to the House against the Government of the Church; he told them, he was content with a Reformation, not an alteration of Church-Government. He took notice of a Bill preparing in the House, for frequent Parliaments to be elected by the Sheriffs, without his consent, which he could by no means admit of, it being an Inseparable right of his Crown; and did freely confess that frequent Parliaments were the best means for preserving a right understanding betwixt him and his subjects. These were the two principal rocks he would have them avoid. Not long after, arrived the Dutch Ambassador, to negotiate in behalf of a Match, betwixt the Prince of Orange and the Lady Mary, the King's eldest daughter, which the King thought fit to Impart to the Parliament, they for the present do nothing in it, but proceed to the drawing up the Bill for a Triennial Parliament, which being passed by both Houses, was the 16 of Feb. presented to his Majesty for his consent. To whom he declares himself, reminding them, that this was one of the two rocks which he formerly told them of, and that the Consequence of it was such, that never Bill past the House of more favour to the subject than this; minding them that by reason of their proceed, he might justly question the doing it, and took notice how they had taken the Government all in pieces; how that a skilful Watchmaker to cleanse his Watch will take it asunder, and when it is put together, it will go better, provided no pin be omitted. Now I have done this on my part, you know what to do on yours, reposing Great Trust and confidence in your affection. The passing of this Bill, was by wise men thought to be none of the least of his failings. Judge Barkly was by the Usher of the black Rod arrested, as he sat on the King's Bench, for high treason. Thomas Earl of Strafford was next brought upon the stage, the Articles exhibited against him were from 14 made 28. and on the 22 of March 1640. his Trial began. The place appointed was Westminster-Hall, where scaffolds were raised on both sides, nine degrees in height: The two uppermost for the Scotch Commissioners, and the Irish Lords: In the midst in a lower ascent sat the Peers of the Realm; a Throne also was erected for the King, but he never appeared publicly, but was every day of the Trial in a Close Gallery to hear and observe the whole proceed, and took notes. The Earl of Arundel was Lord High Steward, and the Earl of Linsey Lord High Constable. The Charge was principally managed by Mr. Glin and Mr. Maynard, both Members of the Commons House; fifteen days together was the Earl arraigned, and gave in his answer to every particular Charge. The Commons Charge him afresh by Mr. Pim concerning some Notes taken by Secretary Vane, which were discovered by his son, of his telling the King, be had an Army in Ireland which his Majesty might Employ to reduce this Kingdom to obedience. He is again called to the Bar, and Mr. Glin and Mr. Pim endeavour to prove him Guilty by Law; They extend his Crimes, and make him as Odious as possible they can. The Earl moves for Council, which the Peers could not in reason deny: The Commons oppose, but after three days contest, the Peers prevail; Council is assigned him, viz. M. Lane, The Prince's Attorney, Mr. Gardner, Recorder of London, Mr. Lo, and Mr. Lightfoot; and Saturday the 17 of April was appointed for him and his Council to appear, where his Council argued his case in Law; that day they adjourn, not appointing any time for their next meeting. The Commons House Vote him Guilty of high Treason, upon the evidence of Sir Henry Vanes notes, which Bill of Attainder was sent up to the Lords, which in their House was much opposed. Some few days after, Mr. St John, The King's Solicitor, was sent by the Commons to the Lords, to Justify the Bill by Law, which accordingly was by him performed in Westminster-Hall; The Earl being present, and The King in his accustomed place. The Peers in their House proceed to Condemnation. The King having notice of it, on the first of May Calls both Houses together, where he declares, that he had been present at the whole Trial, and that in Conscience he could not condemn him of high Treason. He likewise in Vindication of the Earl, declares. 1. That he never had any Intention to bring over the Irish Army, nor ever was advised by any body so to do. 2. That there never was any debate before him, either in public Council, or private Committee, of the disloyalty of his English subjects. And that though he could not in Conscience condemn him of high Treason, yet he could not clear him of misdemeanours; He desired them to consider what a tender Conscience was, and that to satisfy his people, he would do much, but in this of Conscience, neither fear nor any other respect, should make him go against it. He desired them to find out some middle way, and was of opinion that for misdemeanours he thought him not fit to serve him, or the Commonwealth, in any place of trust, no not a Constable. This speech gave much discontent to both Houses. Sunday, May the second, The Prince of Orange was married to the Lady Mary at White Hall, with Great solemnity and triumph. The next day divers seditious persons had stirred up the multitude, to the number of 5000 or 6000. who in a Tumultuous manner came armed to Westminster, crying out for Justice to be executed on the Earl, committed outrages on divers Lords, but by fair promises of my Lord Chamberlain, they were appeased. They likewise posted at Westminster Hall Gate, and the Exchange, a Catalogue of those that opposed the Bill of Attainder, under the title of Strafordians. The fift of May a Motion was made in the House for a loan of 650000 l. to be Lent till it was Levied by Subsidy, provided the King would pass a Bill not to adjourn, prorogue, or dissolve this Parliament, without the consent of both Houses; upon which Motion a Bill was ordered to be drawn up. The Lords by advice of the Judges, Vote the Earl Guilty of the 15 and 19 Articles. And at a Conference of both Houses, it was ordered, That some Lords be sent to the King with the two Bills; one for executing the Earl, The other for continuance of this Parliament; which accordingly was done on Saturday; and The King promised his answer on Monday. All the Sabbath day he was much perplexed within himself. The Clamours of the multitude, were great, he sends for the Judges to advise, summons the Privy Council, and with them spends much time in arguing the Case, sends for five Bishops, viz. London, Lincoln, Carlisle, Durham, and Bishop Usher, who for Law wholly remit him to the Judges, and for Conscience, he having heard the whole proceed, if he conceived him Guiltless, he ought not to condemn him. The Judges in part satisfy the King, by declaring that he was Guilty of high Treason. The Earl himself that day writ a Letter with his own hand, To set his Majesty's Conscience at Liberty, humbly requesting him, to prevent such mischiefs as might ensue upon his refusal, to pass the Bill; and, That his consent herein, should acquit him to God more than all the world beside. Monday the 10th of May, his Majesty being wearied with complaints, granted a Commission to the Earl of Arundel, Lord Privy Seal, Lord Chamberlain, and others, to pass the two Bills. The next day being much afflicted in his spirit, he wrote to the Lords, and sent it by the Prince, wherein he requests, That although he had past the Bill of Attainder against The Earl, yet desired to show mercy, by letting that unfortunate man to end his life in Close Imprisonment; but if no less than life can satisfy my people, I must say, Fiat Justicia. The Postscript was, If he must die, it were Charity to reprieve him till Saturday. The House returned answer, that his request could not possibly be admitted without apparent danger to Him, his Wife, and Children. On Wednesday the 12 of May, he was brought from the Tower to the scaffold on Tower-hill, attended by Bishop Usher, where he made his last Speech to the people, Protesting his Innocency in that for which he was condemned, acquitting all the world, and desired God to forgive them, wishing presperity and happiness to the Kingdom, and desired they would seriously consider whether the Reformation of a Kingdom should be written in Letters of blood; much fearing they were in the wrong way; professing he died a true son of the Church of England, wherein he was borne, and in which he was bred: addressing himself to his brother Sir George Wentworth, desired to be remembered to his Wife and Children, willing him to Charge his Son never to meddle with the patrimony of the Church, for it would prove a Canker to his estate; and after a short time spent in prayer, he submitted his neck to the Block, which was struck off by the Executioner at one low. There was at that time a discovery made of divers persons that had endeavoured the Earls escape out of the Tower, divers Gentlemen of worth were engaged in it, but the timely discovery prevented its execution. Upon which the House oderd some Lords to be assistant to the Lieutenant of the Tower for the safety of the City. Several Great persons were displaced, as, The Earl of Essex made Lord Chamberlain, in the room of Pembroke; The marquis of Hartford Governor of the Prince, in the room of the Earl of Newcastle, Dr Juxon Lord Treasurer, resigned his Office to five Commissioners; The Lord Cottington Master of the Wards, was displaced, and the Office conferred on the Lord Say. In May last the Parliament to engage the people to stick close to them, framed an Oath or Protestation, which was by them taken, and sent through England to be taken by the people. The Parliament being secured for their everlasting sitting, began to consider of the raising of moneys for the payment and disbanding of the two Armies; much Plate was melted down; and the Earl of Holland was by joint consent of King and Parliament ordered to go down as General to disband the English Army. The House in February following, Voted 300000 l. for the Scots, and days of payment to be appointed. For the Levying of this money a Bill was brought into the House for Pole-money, Viz. a Duke 100 l. a marquis 80 l. Earls 60 l. Viscount's and Baronet's 40 l. Knights of the Bath 30 l. Knights Bachelors 20. l. Esquires 10 l. every Gentleman able to expend 100 l per annum 5 l. and so every one according to their degree, no person exempted, every Head paid six pence; which Bill with two other were offered to the King, one for putting down the Star-Chamber, another for putting down the high Commission, at which the King was a little startled. The House Voted he should sign all, or none, which notwithstanding, he passed that for Pole-money, and took time for the other two, and not long after with much Importunity he passed them also. Sir Thomas Roe was sent in the quality of an Ambassador to the Emperor, to solicit the restoration of the Prince Elector, which after much stay and nothing effected, he returns. The Parliament considering the heavy burdens of the Northern Counties, Order 100000 l. part of the 300000 l. to be paid to the Scots; and in August following both Armies were quietly disbanded, and departed to their own homes. Bishop Wren is committed to the Tower for misdemeanours amounting to treason. The Judges that gave their opinion for Ship-money are questioned, and several Charges drawn up against them. The King having Informed the House of his resolutions to take a Journey to Scotland, on the tenth of August set forward out of London towards Scotland, but that very Morning came to the House and past divers Bills, and likewise signed a Commission for the passing of Bills in his absence, the Commissioners appointed were the Lord Keeper, the Lord Privy Seal, marquis of Hartford, Earl of Lindsey, Earl of Essex, Earl of Dorcet, Earl of Bath. He likewise signed another Bill, constituting the Earl of Essex General of all the Forces on this side Trent, by which he had power in case of necessity to Levy an Army. The Parliament adjourned from the eight of September till the 20 of October, and appointed a standing Committee of fifty Members to act in the Interval. The Parliament being adjourned, and the King gone to Scotland, every one took advantage to vent the humour of his own brain; many using Irreverend behaviour during the time of divine service, many outrages and riots were committed against Clergymen, and the Prelatical party (as they called them) strange and unheardof practices were used, as tub-preaching, and that openly in the streets; which gave occasion to many sober minded men to think evil of the Parliament, as though it was their contrivance. During the Kings being in Scotland, a Letter was sent from the English-Committee in Scotland, to the standing Committee at Westminster, discovering a plot against the lives of marquis Hamilton, and others the greatest Peers in Scotland, the Earl of Craford, and others, being the Conspirators: which occasioned the standing Committee (to prevent the like here) to appoint strong guards in several parts of the City, and so to continue till the next meeting of both Houses. Before the King returned from Scotland, about the end of October 1641. brake out the most barbarous and inhuman Rebellion in Ireland, that ever was heard of in any age of the world. The Innocent Protestants turned out of their estates, and above two hundred thousand persons, men, women, and children, most barbarously and cruelly murdered. But we will leave Ireland weltering in her blood, and look home. Where in November 1641. we find the King returned from Scotland, and was by the City of London feasted, and in Great State conducted to Hampton Court, with much seeming expressions of Joy; some few days after the King Invites the Aldermen and principal Citizens to Hampton Court, where they were sumptuously feasted, and divers Aldermen were Knighted. During the Kings residing at Hampton Court, the Commons present the King a Remonstrance of the state of the Kingdom, with a large recital of all the Grievances and oppressions that the people had groaned under since the beginning of his Reign. Upon which within few days the King published a Declaration in answer to their Remonstrance. And now began visibly to appear the sad breach betwixt the King and his Parliament, which did daily increase, until the Kingdom was involved in a sad war. Great endeavours are used to stir up the Common people with a dislike of the King's actions, to which purpose freedom was given to every party without contradiction, to write and publish many bitter and Invective Pamphlets against the Bishops, and their Government, and all the ill actions of the King's Ministers were laid upon him, and not content with that, they came down in Great multitudes to Westminster, and by the way gave uncivil and threatening Language to divers Gentlemen at Whitehall-Gate. Which caused the King to send to the Lord Major to summon a Common Council, to receive his pleasure, which by the Chancellor of the Duchy, he declares his utter dislike of the numerous multitude coming in that rude manner, and desires care may be taken to prevent the like for the future, assuring them of his care and protection. And the same day the King sent to the City, the Commons Petition for a Guard to defend them from a malignant party now prevalent; which Petition the King denied, promising them in the word of a King, That his care for their security should be as great as for his wife and children, and if that wauld not serve their turn, he would appoint a Guard of such as he would be answerable to God for. Proclamation was made against the Irish Rebels, and the King desires the two Houses to enter into Debate concerning relief, and proposes, that 10000 Volunteers be raised and sent over, if the Commons will pay them. The King being informed of a design carried on by divers Members of the House of Commons, which held Intelligence with the Scots, endeavouring to subvert his Authority; and the better to carry on their designs, countenanced the Tumults in the City, causes Sir William Killigrew and Sir William Fleming, to go to the Chambers and Studies of divers Members of the House of Commons, to seal up their Trunks, and to seize on their papers, as the Lord Kimbolton, Mr Pim, Mr Hamden, Mr Deuzill Hollis, Sir Arthur Haselrig, and Mr Stroud, but none of their persons could be met with: they presently make report to the House, who immediately Vote it a breach of the privilege of Parliament, and that it shall be lawful to make resistance, and to require the aid of a Constable to keep such persons endeavouring to seize on any member, till the further pleasure of the House. On the third of June the King sent his Attorney Sir Edward Herbert to demand the five Members, and sent a Sergeant at Arms to charge them with Articles of high treason, and with them the Lord Mandevill, the Earl of Manchesters' second son; which Articles were these. 1. They endeavoured to subvort the Government, to deprive the King of his Legal power, to place on the subjects an Arbitrary and tyrannical Power. 2. They had endeavoured by foul aspersions upon his Majesty's Government, to alienate the affections of his people from him. 3. That they endeavoured to draw his Army from his obedience, to side with them in traitorous designs. 4. That they traitorously invited and encouraged a foreign Power to invade his Majesty's Kingdom of England. 5. That they had traitorously endeavoured to subvert the very rights and beings of Parliaments. 6. That they had endeavoured by force and terror to compel the Parliament to join with them in their traitorous designs, and to that end have actually raised and countenanced tumults against the King and Parliament. 7. That they traitorously conspired to Levy, and actually have Levied war against the King. The 4th of January 1641. The King attended with divers Gentlemen came to the House-door, he only entered the House of Commons, seating himself in the Speakers Chair, demands five Members of that House to be delivered to him; Their names were Sir Arthur Haselrig, Mr. Denzill Hollis, Mr. Pim, Mr. Hamden, Mr. Stroud. The King finding they were not there (for they were absent by appointment of the House) rises from the Speakers Chair, and tells them he was very sorry for that occasion, and that no King ever was, nor should be more careful to preserve the privileges of Parliament than he should be, that those five Members were dangerous men, he protested in the word of a King, that he never intended any force, but to proceed against them in a Legal way; he expected they would send them so soon as they came into the House. The King is no sooner gone out of the House, but they are in a great confusion, crying out. Privilege, privilege; and the next day Voted the King's coming to the House a breach of the privilege of Parliament. The King made Proclamation the next day for their apprehension, which the day following the Commons Voted illegal and scandalous. The day after he had been at the House, be went in his Coach to London, being informed they were fled thiher, where all the way as he went, the Citizens and others flocked about his Coach, desiring him not to Infringe the privilege of Parliament: Upon his return one Walker fling into the King's Coach a seditious pamphlet, entitled, To your Tents O Israel; for which he was apprehended. The Gentlemen of the Inns of Court, offered their service to the King as a Guard; a small Court of Guard is built at White-Hall-Gate, and some Gentlemen entertained: Within two days after a great multitude came out of London in their accustomed manner, to Petition against Bishops, and in their passage by White-Hall using menacing terms, which the Gentlemen not brooking, some small mischief was done. At Westminster they offered violence to divers Bishops, which caused 14 of them to draw up a Protest against the proceed of the House. The Commons resent it ill, and Vote them Guilty of High Treason. The City Petition the King concerning the putting of persons of Honour out of the Tower, and placing others in their rooms; and of the Great preparations in the Tower, of the fortifying White-Hall, and withal desire, that the five Members may not be restrained, nor proceeded against, but by consent of the House; to all which his Majesty gave an answer. Two thousand Petitioners came out of Buckingham-shire to Petition the King in the behalf of Mr. Hamden, their Countryman, desiring that he and the rest of the five Members may enjoy the Privileges of Parliament; which moved the King to send to the Parliament, that for the present he would wave his proceed against the five Members. The multitude not being content with the destruction of Bishops, they openly demand the Liturgy of the Church to be abolished, condemning the use of all set-formes of prayer. The Pulpits every where sounded aloud that now was the time that the Israelites should plunder the Egyptians, and that the Just should wash their footsteps in the blood of the ungodly; and publicly exhorted the people, to take up arms against the King's Evil Council (as they called it) and to destroy all such as joined with them: and to this effect these following Texts of Scripture were pressed by the zealous Ministers, Luke 19.27. Those mine enemies that would not that I should Reign over them, bring hither and slay before me. Judges 5.23. Curse ye Meroz, Curse ye bitterly the Inhabitants thereof, because they came not to help the Lord against the Mighty. Jer. 48.10. Cursed be he that doth the work of the Lord deceitfully; and cursed be he that keepeth back his sword from blood. Thus there was no way for Reformation in these men's accounts, but to pluck up and to destroy, and all for the Love of God, and for the advancement of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. The great multitudes still resorting to Westminster every day, caused the King for his own safety to repair to Hampton Court, with the Queen and Prince, for which by many good men he was much blamed. The next day after the King went to Hampton Court, many Citizens, with a great company of boats, with Guns and flags, Guard the five Members, in Triumph, to Westminster; which gave occasion to the King to dislike the City. The House of Commons Petition the King for the Militia; To which he gives a speedy answer, though not satisfying to them. They likewise Petition that the five Members may be estated and cleared of that Imputation of Treason; To which he answered, That he had ground and proof enough to accuse them, but he is willing to forbear prosecution; if that will not do, to satisfy the people, he will pass a free and General pardon, as they shall think fit. The King after he had been at Hampton Court some small time, sends for the Earl of Essex, than Lord Chamberlain, and the Earl of Holland, Groom of the Stool to attend him; but they refused, rather choosing to obey his Writ; upon which he sends a Messenger for the Staff and Key, the Ensigns of their Office, which they willingly resigned. The Queen having received a Message from both Houses by the Earl of Newport and the Lord Seamor, that they intended to charge her with Treason. She answered, she never saw any Articles in writing, and therefore gave little credit, and she hoped they would lay no aspersions upon her that never mistrusted the actions of one single person, much less the whole House, and that she ever wished a happy and right understanding betwixt the King and his people. In February the King and Queen went to Canterbury, and so to Dover, with the Princess Mary, wife to the Prince of Orange. The Queen went along with her into Holland; and some affirm, carried the choicest Jewels of the Crown with her to pawn. During the Kings stay at Canterbury, he signed the Bill to take away Bishop's Votes in Parliament. The King came back to Greenwich, and sends for the Duke of York to attend him in his going to York, where he intended to reside. From Greenwich he removes to Theobalds', where he is presented with a Petition for the Militia, and likewise to reside near London, and not to take his Son with him. The King refused to give any other answer to the Militia, than what he had already done; and that he should take such care of his Son, as should justify him to God as a Father, and to his Dominions as a King, and that he conceived himself not safe near London. The House immediately Vote, That his Majesty's answer was a flat denial, and likewise Order The Earl of Northumberland, Lord High Admiral, to take care for the providing and rigging of the Royal Navy for the service of the Kingdom. The House seeing they could not prevail with the King for the Militia, past an Order for settling the Militia throughout England and Wales in confiding persons hands. From Huntingdon the King sent a Message to both Houses, showing the Grounds and Reasons of his removal to York, desiring them to expedite the necessary supplies for Ireland, and forbids them by any pretence of Order or Ordinance to meddle with the Militia, or to do or execute any thing against Law, he being tied up by the Law as well as his subjects, and must obey. Upon which the House drew up a Declaration of their utter dislike of his proceed. The King at Stamford puts forth a Proclamation for putting in execution the Laws against Papists. And being at York puts forth a Proclamation for Tunage and Poundage. The eight of April 1642. the King sends a message to both Houses, declaring his Intentions to go himself in person to chastise the bloody rebels, and that he intended to raise forthwith by Commission a Guard for his own person, consisting of 2000 foot and 200 horse, and to arm them from his Magazine at Hull. Upon which the Houses Petition to remove the Magazine from Hull. The Gentry, Ministers, and Freeholders of the County of York, Petition the King, to which his Majesty gives a speedy and gracious answer. The House again Petitions, that (the Magazine at the Tower of London being much drained) that from Hull may be brought up; to which his Majesty answered, That for the Charge of Locking to the Magazine at Hull, as it was by them at first voluntarily undertaken, though unnecessarily, yet you may free our good people of that Charge, and leave it to Us to look to, who are the proper owners of it. The Parliament, though they could not prevail by Entreaty, resolve to do it by possicy, for they had sent to keep out the Earl of Newcastle, and committed the Town and Fort to a faithful Friend of theirs, Sir John Hotham. The County of York petition the King, that the Magazine may remain there for the security of the Northern Counties; and during the Contests, the Parliament went on might and main, settling the Militia in many Counties; and by Reason the Earl of Northumberland was indisposed in health, and could not attend the Sea-service, they petition that the Earl of Warwick may be Admiral. The King utterly refuses the Earl of Warwick, yet notwithstanding the Earl of Warwick being Encouraged by some Votes of the House, though with some opposition, got possession of most part of the Navy. The King attended by many of the Nobility, a great number of Gentlemen, and some Soldiers, came before the walls of Hull, but found the Gates shut, and the Bridges drawn up by the Command of Sir John Hotham, a Member of the Commons House. Sir John Hotham appeared on the wall, Kneelling down, Entreating his Majesty not to command that, which he must be enforced at that time to deny, and that he could not admit him in, without breach of trust to the Parliament, craving leave that he might have time of acquaint the Parliament. The King being very wrath, desired to know if he had any Order in writing, expressly to deny his entrance: And after some hours stay, Proclaimed Sir John Hotham a Traitor, after he had received The Duke of York and the Prince Elector out of the Town, who had been there one day. The King forthwith sends a Message to the Parliament, accusing Hotham for a traitor; and likewise sent a Letter to the Mayor of Hull, to take care that no part of the Magazine should be conveyed away without his consent: there were Scouts appointed to Intercept all Letters between London and Hull; and a Letter accordingly was Intercepted going from the Parliament to Hull, giving encouragement to Sir John to continue firm, nothing doubting but they would stick by him. The House being Informed of the Intercepting of their Letter, Voted it a high breach of the privilege of Parliament; and that what Sir John had done, was in obedience to that House; and that the proclaiming him a traitor without due process of Law, is a breach of their privilege, against the Laws of the Land, and the liberty of the subject. They likewise past an Order to prevent the Levying any Soldiers in Yorkshire, or Lincolnshire, to force a passage into the Town of Hull; and the more to enrage the King, Hotham is ordered to Levy The trained bands, which being come into the Town, he disarms and dismisses them. There was a select Committee appointed to go to Hull, with Instructions for the safety of the Counties of York and Lincoln, to whom all Sheriffs, Justices of the peace, Constables, and other Officers, are required to be aiding and assisting. Things began to grow very high; The King summons the Gentry of the County of York, where he gave them a large account of all the messages and replies touching Hull, and the Reasons why he did not sign the Bill for the Militia. To be short, You see my Magazine is going to be taken from me directly against my Will; The Militia against the Law (and my consent) is going to be put in execution; and lastly, Sir John Hothams' Treason is countenanced; all which being considered, none can blame me to apprehend dangers, and upon this real Ground to tell you, that I am resolved to have a Guard only to secure my person; In which I desire you assistance, that I may be able to protect you the Laws, and the true Protestant Religion from any affront or Injury. Which speech was by them received with great affection. The Parliament being informed of the King's Speech to the Yorkshire Gentry, declare that it is against the Laws and liberties of the Kingdom, that any of the subjects thereof should be commanded by the King to attend him at his pleasure, and that whosoever upon pretence of his Majesty's command shall take up Arms in a warlike manner, shall be esteemed disturbers of the peace, and to be proceeded against accordingly: and likewise signed an Order to the Sheriff of that County, to take care to suppress the raising of the trained bands upon the King's Command. But the Parliament Issue out Commissions to all parts of the Kingdom, appointing certain days for all the trained bands to be exercised in each County; and that several Members be sent into the several Counties to see the Commissions put in execution, and all the Magazines in the several Counties to be put into the hands of their confiding friends. Which Commissions were answered by Proclamation from the King, forbidding the trained bands and all others to rise or muster, on pretence of any Ordinance of Parliament, without his consent. The breach was now grown wide; the Parliament still opposing and thwarting the King on all occasions, moved divers of the Members to desert it, and repair to the King, so that in a small time, the Lords at York were more in number then those at Westminster. The names of those that went, were, the marquis of Hartford, the Earl of Lindsey, Cumberland, Huntingdon, Bath, Southampton, Dorset, Salisbury, who presently returned, Northampton, Devonshire, Bristol, Westmoreland, Berkshire, Munmouth, Rivers, Newcastle, Dover, Carnarvan, Newport, the Lord Howard, Charlton, Newwark, Pawlet, Paget, Matreverse, Willowby, Rich, Fawconbridge, Chandois, Coventry, Lovelesse, Savill, Seymor, Mohune, Dunsmore, Lord Capell, Grace of Ruthen; Together with above fifty of the Commons House, whose departure startled the active men of the House, who notwithstanding having gone so far, proceed and Vote, That it appears that the King being seduced by evil Council, Intends to make war against the Parliament, and that when he doth, it is a breach of trust reposed in him; and likewise that whosoever shall aid or assist him in the said war, are traitors by the fundamental Laws of the Kingdom. And on the 30 of May by Vote summon nine of those Lords that went, to return, but they utterly refused, which the House deemed a slighting of them, which occasioned Mr. Hollis after a long Speech to Impeach them of high treason, which the Peers afterwards confirmed, in Voting them never to sit in the House more, and to be uncapable of any privilege of Parliament. And not long after the Lord Keeper Littleton, sent away the Great Seal to the King, and immediately followed it, which put the House to a great plunge for the present. In June 1642. The two Houses sent a Petition with 19 Propositions to the King, to which he reutrned a smart answer, taxing them, that they had contrary to law pressed their Ordinances on the people, wrested from him the command of the Militia, countenanced the Treason of Hotham, and had directed to the people Invectives against his Government, aspersed him with the favouring of Papists; and with an utter dislike of the Propositions, protested, that if he were vanquished and a prisoner, in worse condition than any the most unfortunate of his predecessors had ever been reduced unto, he would never stoop so low as to Grant those demands, and to make himself of a King of England, a Duke of Venice. And now both sides prepare for war: The Parliament the 10 of June 1642. past an Order for bringing in money and plate to maintain horse and foot for defence of the public peace, for which they did engage the public faith. The King on the other side receives advice by Letters from Amsterdam of a considerable quantity of Arms and Ammunition, which was provided upon some Jewels pawned by the Queen; he likewise sends Commissions of Array, with Letters to the Lieutenants of the several Counties, making use of the Parliaments Vote, and declares, That the Kingdom being in danger of Enemies abroad, and a Popish party at home, it is necessary to put the people in a posture of defence, that you immediately cause to be restored all the ancient trained bands, and freehold bands, and to appoint Colonel's and Captaiens, and other Officers, to command them. The Parliament Vote the Commission to be against Law, and the actors therein, to be esteemed disturbers of the peace. Whereupon the King summons the Lords of the Council, with the rest of the Nobility at York, and declares that he requires no obedience of them, but what shall be according to law, and requires them to yield to no commands Illegally Imposed by any other, and that he will not Engage them in any war against the Parliament, except for necessary defence against such as shall Invade him or them; Upon which, with unanimous consent, they all freely engaged to him their duty and allegiance. The King sends a Letter to the Lord Mayor of London, Aldermen and Sheriffs, forbidding any contribution of money and plate toward the raising of any Armies whatsoever for the Parliament. By this time the Arms were arrived from Holland, but the King wanted men to wield them, yet by his Speeches and Declarations, had gained the affections of many of his people, and a considerable number was got together; and from Beverly he sends a Message and Proclamation to the Parliament, of his Intentions to go against Hull, requiring it might be delivered up to him, which they answered with a Petition, moving him to accord with his two Houses; they likewise set out a Declaration for the safety of Hull, promising satisfaction for all damages sustained. On the 11 of June 1642. The Parliament Vote that an Army shall be raised for the defence of King and Parliament, and the Earl of Essex to be General. The King according to his former Intentions, with an Army of 3000 foot and 1000 horse, Intends to besiege Hull by Land, and made Proclamation that none on pain of death carry any provisions into Hull. Hotham being Informed of the Kings advance, summons a Council of War, which resolve to hold the King play with their Ordinance, till the tide came in, and then to draw up their sluices, which accordingly was performed with much damage to the King's Soldiers. Hotham likewise sends to the Parliament, requiring 500 men for the safety of the Town, and provisions. Upon which by command of the Parliament, Drums are beaten p in London, and other adjacent Counties, for Volunteers to go immediately to Hull, and within a week 500 men and more were sent by Sea under the command of Sir John Meldram, to assist Sir John Hotham. The King calls a Council, and resolves to break up the siege. By this time the Earl of Warwick was possessed of most of the Fleet for the service of the Parliament, and they were in a considerable way to raise an Army, by the assistance of that mass of money and plate that was brought in, for it is almost Incredible with what zeal and affection (by the Ministers persuasions) the people were willing to be rid of their Treasure, every one vying who should contribute most; nay the women and maidens spared not their Rings, Thimbles and Bodkins, for the advancement of the cause. The Earl of Essex with much prudence raiseth a considerable body of horse and foot. The Earl of Bedford was Voted to be General of the Horse. Colonel Goring, eldest Son to the Lord Goring, was sent down to Portsmouth by the Parliament; but suddenly he declares for the King. The King being returned to York, summons the Gentry, and requires their assistance for the raising of a Regiment for the Prince's Guard, to be commanded by the Earl of Cumberland. The Parliament declare against the Commission of Array, & Vote it Illegal: on the other side, the King being Informed of the Earl of Essex his raising an Army, proclaims him a Rebel and a Traitor to the King and his Crown, and that all Colonel's and other Officers under his Command, that shall not Instantly lay down their Arms, are Guilty of High Treason. And likewise Commands the marquis of Hartford, to raise what Forces he could to suppress him. Great was the Contest almost in every County, betwixt the Parliament Commissioners, and the Commissioners of Array. In some Counties the King's party prevailed, in others the Parliaments. London the Great Metropolis was not exempted; for Sir Richard Gurney, than Lord Major was committed to the Tower, for causing the King's Commission of Array to be read, and was by the Lords deprived of his Majoralty, never to bear Office in City or Commonwealth, and to continue prisoner during the pleasure of the House. The King being at York publisheth a Grand Declaration of all the proceed from the beginning of this Parliament to this present time, concluding with a solemn Protestation of his affections to Parliaments, and the peace and happiness of the Kingdom; and within few days sends a Message to the Parliament, taxing them with borrowing 100000 l. out of the Adventures money for the relief of Ireland; to which they return a speedy answer. The King in person moveth from place to place; On the 22 of July he made a Speech to the Gentry in Leicestershire; on the 4th of August, to the Gentry in Yorkshire; and that war might not want its solemnity, on the 20 of August, he sets up his Standard Royal at Nottingham, and by Proclamation requires the aid and assistance of all his Subjects on the North side Trent, and within twenty miles Southward thereof, for his just defence; and that whosoever shall supply him with money and plate, he (as God shall enable him) will repay and reward, accordin gto the measure of their love and affection to him and their Country. On the 25 of August 1642. from Nottingham the King sends a Message to both Houses, by the Earls of Southampton and Dorset, and Sir John Culpepper, for a treaty of peace; and that an equal number may be chosen to meet where they should appoint, that there may, if possible, be an accommodation, out of a deep sense of the Calamities that attend the Kingdom. To which they answer, That until he recalls that Proclamation which proclaims them Rebels, and takes down his Standard, they will by no means hear of it: To which he replies, That to remove all scruples that may hinder the Treaty, by him so much desired, so that a day be appointed by the Parliament for revoking their Declarations against all persons as traitors assisting him, he will with all cheerfulness on the same day recall his Proclamations, and take down his Standard; and likewise promised to grant any thing that should be for the good of his subjects, assuring them that his greatest desire was to get a right understanding. To which they humbly answer and petition, that his Majesty would take down his Standard, withdraw his Declarations, and leave his Forces, and return to the Parliament, and receive their faithful advice, of whose real affection he need not to doubt. Within few days the King sends a second reply, That he could neither do nor offer any more than he had already, and that he should think himself clear fromany blood that might be spilt in this quarrel. The Parliament give encouragement to the well affected, that what moneys they should lend, should be satisfied out of Delinquents estates; and declare, that whosoever shall return from the King to the Parliament within ten days shall be pardoned, excepting the Duke of Richmond, the Earls of Newcastle, Cumberland, Bristol, Rivers, and Carnarvan, Mr. Edward Hid, Endymion Porter, Secretary Nicholas, Viscount Newwark, Viscount Haltland. The Parliament being Informed that the Queen was soliciting the States of Holland to contribute Arms and Ammunition for the King, send Mr. Walter Strickland, a Member of the House, over into Holland, with credential Letters. They likewise drew up a Declaration to the States of Holland to satisfy them of their whole proceed. Prince Rupert and Prince Maurice in September arrive in England, and offer their service to their Uncle, who were immediately put into Command. Prince Rupert with a small body of Horse flew up and down through divers Counties, and gained a considerable body together. The King himself moves, though with a slower pace, and had gotten a great number together, marches to Shrewsbury (a place of great concernment, as being the Inlet to Wales) where he order a Mint to melt down the plate, which was largely contributed by the Gentry, and offers the Crown Lands in Mortgage to ease the Country of the burden of taxes and free Quarter. The Earl of Lindsey is chosen General for the King, and the General Rendezvouz of his Forces was appointed at York. The Earl of Essex General for the Parliament, appointed a Rendezvouz of all the Parliament Forces at Northampton, being about 20000 Horse and foot, who gave stirct Charge to restrain all profaneness and disorders in their Army. He divided his Army into several bodies, to prevent the Roving of Prince Rupert, and to find out the King: from Northampton he marches to Coventry, thence to Warwick. Worcester was possessed by Sir John Byron: a skirmish happened betwixt Prince Rupert, and Mr. Fines, Colonel Sands, Captain Hales, and others. Thus, the Prince came out of Worcester into a green Meadow, resolved to fight those he could first meet withal; The passage to the Meadow was narrow; Colonel Sands being over-valiant Charged with his Regiment before the rest could come up; both sides being equal in number, fought with Great resolution, but the prince fearing the General's approach, retired into Worcester, though with some loss in the Rear, being pursued through the Town by the Parliaments Forces: Colonel Sands, and Sergeant Major Duglaas were slain at the first Charge. There was found dead in all thirteen person. The Prince marched immediately to Ludlow, and the King with some horse marcheth into Wales, and made a Speech full of protestations to the Gentry of Denbighshire and Flintshire, and returns to Shrewsbury, where his strength much increased, being 16000 foot, and 5000 Horse and Dragoones. Both Armies think of providing winter Quarters; Colonel Essex, with two Regiments of foot, is appointed Governor of Gloucester, but not long after was ordered to Bristol. The town being divided, and hearing of his coming, began to mutiny, but he had a party which opened the gates to him in the night, and surprised the Mutineers. Upon Essex Removal from Gloucester, Colonel Massey was appointed Governor. The Earl of Essex sends horse and soot to the Lord Wharton, to make a body, to prevent the Cavaliers going to Wollverhampton. The King being at Shrewsbury, summons the County to bring horse and carts for his removal, who marches near Coventry, and that night lay at Southam. The King so exceedingly increased in strength, that he caused fear in those at London, who order all the trained bands of London, and the adjacent Counties, to be in readiness, and to set up Posts and Chains in all the passages into the City, and order twelve Companies out of London for the security of Windsor Castle. The Parliament Vote that it was and should be lawful for all Counties in England to enter into a mutual association, for the defence each of other. The danger that the Parliament apprehended was real, for the King had gotten between the Earl of Essex and London, and they conjectured it more feasible forhim to attempt London, then fight the Army. Yorkshire at that time abounded with Cavaliers, commanded by the Earl of Cumberland, Sir Francis Wortley, Sir Marmaduke Langdale, and Sir Thomas Glenham. In Cornwall there was a considerable strength for the King, who were commanded by Sir Ralph Hopton. In Wales they began to body, besides the Army the King Commanded, and a great body of horse commanded by Prince Rupert. The King with an Army of 14000 foot and 4000 Horse and Dragoones came on Saturday the 22 of October within six miles of Keynton, and quartered his Army at Crepeda and Edghill. The Earl of Essex quartered at Keinton with his Army. On Sunday the 28. both Armies draw up in a body. The King having the advantage of a high hill, called Edg Hill, at the foot of which was a vale, called the Vale of the red horse, where Essex his Army was drawn up upon a Rising Ground, in Battalia, three Regiments of horse on the right wing, commanded by Sir Philip Stapleton, Sir William Belford, and the Lord Fielding, Sir John Meldram commanded the Van; the General, Colonel Hollis, and the Lord Brooks, in the Rear; on the left wing twenty Troops of Horse commanded by Sir James Ramsey. The Earl of Lindsey was General for the King, but the Battle was ordered by the Lord Ruthen Earl of Forth. The General on foot led on the main body of the Army with a pike in his hand. The Earl of Essex shown personal Valour, till he was dissuaded not to expose himself to danger, and so retired to the body. The Forlorn on the King's side was commanded by Major Backstake and Captain Hamond, who being come down to the bottom of the hill, charged the Parliaments Forlorn, which was no sooner done, but the King's Canons began to play. Prince Rupert, General of the Horse, Commanded the Right wing, Charged furiously the Left wing of Essex his Army, and Routed them, pursuing them to Keinton Town, took the Carriages, the Earl's Wagons, and Cloak-bag, being too Eager of the plunder. The Earl of Lindsey being too adventurous was killed, and by reason of the absence of Prince Rupert, the main body of the Kings was assaulted with great fury, and his Standard taken (Sir Edmund Varney the Standard-bearer being killed) which was afterwards retaken, by an unknown person, and conveyed away. The foot on both sides Charge with equal Valour, until the night came on, which parted the fight. Both Armies continue in the field all night, and the next day the King made Proclamation of pardon to such as would lay down their arms and submit. The Victory was much disputed, both sides returning thanks to God for Victory. Indeed there was real signs of Victory on both sides, by the taking of Colours and Canons of equal number. And although the Parliament lost more men, yet the King lost more men of quality. The number of the slain was computed to be between five and six thousand. The King's Army drew off toward Keinton, and the Earl of Essex withdrew toward Warwick. In Examining the Earl of Essex his Cabinet, they discovered one Blake that attended the King to be Treacherous, by holding a Correspondency, who was immediately condemned by a Council of War, and hanged in the high way. On the Parliaments side were slain of note, the Lord St John, Colonel Ch. Essex, Lieutenant Colonel Ramsey. The Parliament take care to recruite their Army by giving Liberty to apprentices to serve their time in the war, which occasioned very many to leave their trades, and repair thither. They likewise solicit the Scots to raise and Army for their own defence. The King on the other side sends a Declaration to his Council in Scotland, Stating the quarrel betwixt him and his Parliament, requiring their assistance. The King and Prince Rupert repair near London with a flying Army, which occasioned the Parliament to provide for their own safety. The Earl of Essex likewise drew near to the City, quartering his men at Acton, and the places adjoining. The King's Artiffery with some Troops of Horse, advance from Colebrook to Branford, eight miles from London, fell upon Colonel Hollis his men, which quartered there, but the Lord Brooks and Colonel Hamdens' Regiments came speedily to their relief, and for a time maintained a bloody fight. The Earl of Essex was sitting in the House when the news was brought, who immediately horsed, and with what strength he could, hastens to meet the King, but night approaching, the King retired. All that night vast numbers of Soldiers flocked from the City, above three times the number of the King's Army, and they had hemmed him in on every side, had not Kingston bridge been left destitute, over which the King's train of Artillery was drawn, whilst a body of Horse faced the Enemy, and then retired toward Oxford. The Parliament order the General to follow him, and fight him. The King's Forces in the North under the Command of the Earl of Newcastle, and the Earl of Cumberland, being 8000 Horse and foot, were too potent for the Lord Fairfax, Lieutenant for the Parliament. The Earl marches to tadcaster, where the Lord Fairfax, and Captain Hotham were, fell on the Town, and forced the Lord Fairfax with some loss to quit the Town, and march to Cauwod and Selby for supplies for his Army: Sir Thomas Fairfax is sent to Leeds with divers Troops of Horse, but was forced to retire. In December, Goring with Arms, money, and eighty old Commanders, with the Queen's Standard, arrives from Holland, and joins with the Earl of Newcastle. The Counties of Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridge, Hartford, Essex, associate, and the Lord Grace of Wark is appointed Major General over them. The Parliaments Forces possess themselves of Winchester and Chichester. The Parliament send Propositions to Oxford by four Lords and eight Commoners; To which the King returns a speedy answer. The Queen arrives the 16 of Feb. 1642. and brings over Arms, money, and Ammunition with her from Holland. The Earl of Montross, and the Lord Ogle present their service to her at York, with two Troops of Horse, which she afterward made up a considerable body. The Earl of Essex in the Spring marched forth of his winter quarters, resolving to besiege Reading, which was possessed by the King's Forces, in it was 3000 Soldiers, and twenty pieces of Ordinance; the General sits down before it in April 1643. with an Army of 16000 foot and 3000 Horse, which after sixteen days, was delivered up on easy conditions by the Deputy Governor Colonel Fielding, Sir Arthur Aston the Governor being indisposed by reason of his wounds. At Cirencister was the most considerable party for the Parliament in all those parts; Prince Rupert with a considerable Army marches against it, the Town not being fortified, he falls on with a furious assault, which at first was Gallantly received, but after two hours dispute possessed himself of the Town, the most part of the Earl of Stamfords' Regiment being cut off, seized a considerable Magazine with above 3000 Arms, and eleven hundred persons, which were conveyed to Oxford. Immediately he faces Gloucester, summons the City; To which Massey Replied, That he kept the City for King and Parliament, and would not deliver it to any foreign Prince. The Army in Wales raised for the King, advance toward Gloucester, and in their march, fall on a Regiment of Colonel burroughs, which they rout, divers Officers being slain, took fifty prisoners, and so march on to Gloucester. News was brought to the Parliament of a considerable defeat given to their forces in Devonshire, and that Prince Maurice, and the marquis of Hartford had Intentions to secure all the West for the King. And not long after there was a discovery made for the betraying of Bristol, but by timely notice it was prevented, and the Conspirators executed. Likewise a discovery was made in London of a plot to settle the King's Commission of Array, for which Mr. Tomkins and Mr. Chaloner were both Executed. The Lord Brookes, a very active man for the Parliament, being in Staffordshire with his Forces, with Intentions to dissipate those Gentlemen that were got together for the King, advances to Litchfield. The Earl of Chesterfeild had some Forces in the Town for the King, who upon the Lord Brookes his advance to the Town, quits it, and retires with his Forces to the Close, which was far more tenable than the Town. Brookes takes possession of the Town, and being in a Window peeping to watch an advantage against the Enemy, was shot into the Eye, and died immediately. His Soldiers notwithstanding the loss of their chief Commander, fall on with much resolution, and after a short dispute possessed themselves of the Church and Close, took the Earl of Chesterfeild, with divers Commanders, and many common Soldiers. Prince Rupert immediately lays siege to Litchfield, and having notice of the advance of some of the Parliaments forces under the Command of Brereton and Gell to raise the siege, drew out near a thousand Horse and Dragoones, fell on the enemy, which they put to flight, and by their flight left Bag and baggage to the King's forces, with divers pieces of Ordinance, and many prisoners. But the Earl of Northampton Charging in the head of the body was slain, they return to the siege, spring a mine, and scale the walls; whereupon the besieged desire a Parley, and on reasonable conditions quit the Town. In May 1643. the Lords and Commons Vote that an Act be passed for an Assembly of Divines immediately to be called to settle Religion. They likewise Vote the making of a new Great Seal, a thing never heard or read of in the Natition; which Mr. Prin defence in his book, entitled, The opening of the Great Seal of England. Sir John Hotham sends word to the Earl of Newcastle, that Hull and Lincoln shall be delivered up to him for the service of his Majesty, and both father and son resolve to stand on their own Guard at Hull. Mr Jermin Generalissimo for the Queen, was at Newwark, who levying a considerable party for the securing of the County, she with thirty Companies of Horse and Dragoones; and three thousand foot, meets the King at Edghill, it being the first time she saw him since her departure into Holland. The King and Queen retire to Oxford. The Parliament draw up Articles of High Treason against the Queen; That she had pawned the Jewels of the Crown, raised the Rebellion in Ireland, endeavoured to raise a party in Scotland against the Parliament, that she had appeared in the head of a Popish party, which was at last passed by both Houses. They likewise Vote that the King and Queen's revenue should be detained, and employed in the public service. They likewise Voted a new and unheard of tax to be laid upon Beer, Wine, Tobacco, and whatsoever is necessary for support of life, which they called Excize. Sir John Hotham and his son are both taken prisoners by Sir Matthew Beynton, their estates seized and confiscate, Sir John endeavouring to escape, was knocked down by a Soldier at the same Gate that he denied the King Entrance. They are both sent by Sea prisoners to the Parliament, and Sir Matthew took possession of the Town. June 17. 1643. The Earl of Essex at Ta'en, order the Buckingham Forces to beat up the King's quarters, which accordingly they did; Prince Rupert having notice of it, falls in with a body of Horse, Routed and dispersed most of the party; There was slain the Earl of Musgraves Son, and Mr. Hamden, one of the five Impeached Members, a man violently active against the King. At that time the Parliaments Army was much visited with the Contagion, many dying daily. On the fift of July was a great defeat given to Sir William Waller in the West (after he had continued there victoriously for some time) by a party from Oxford, conducted by the Lord Wilmot, which defeat gave a great Check to the Parliament. The General by reason of the sickness, and other great wants of his Army, marches towards London, quartering them at Kingston on Thames, and other adjacent places. Great were the successes of the King almost in every part of the Kingdom; for Sir William Waller was quite routed in the West, Sir Ralph Hopton in the head of a Gallant Army, upon whom the King was pleased for his fidelity and Valour, to confer the Honour and Title of a Baron. Prince Rupert was ordered to besiege Bristol, which in short time was delivered to him. Prince Maurice besieged Exeter (whither the Earl of Stamford was fled) which on the fourth of September 1643 was delivered up to him upon Articles, Sir John Barkly was made Governor. The Lord Fairfax, Sir Thomas Fairfax, and most of the Parliaments forces in the North were defeated & driven into Hull, by the Lord of Newcastle, who at that time commanded the Greatest Army in England, and not only able to terrify the Parliaments Forces in England, but likewise formidable to any Scotch forces that should come to their assistance. Colonel Goring landed at Newcastle with 200 old Soldiers. The Earl of Newcastle in his march from Tadcaster, surprised Leeds, and in it divers persons of quality, friends to the Parliament; he likewise proclaims the Lord Fairfax traitor. The King in the Head of a Gallant Army summons Gloucester, offering free pardon and protection to the Inhabitants, if they would lay down their Arms, requiring a positive answer in two hours. In the Interim he surrounds the Town with six thousand Horse and foot; by the time appointed, the Magistrates, Officers, and Soldiers, return this answer; That they kept the Town for his Majesty and his Royal posterity, and do accordingly conceive ourselves wholly bound to obey the Commands of his Majesty signified by both Houses of Parliament, and are resolved by Gods Help to keep the City accordingly. The King stood amazed at their confidence, for at that time they could not hope for relief; In the Town was only one Regiment of foot, an hundred Horse, beside the trained bands, in all not exceeding fifteen hundred men. The King resolves to lay a close siege, and a considerable party Entrenched on the South and East side, though they within sallied out with some damage to the King's forces, the Welsh and Worcestershire forces on the North west side, General Ruthen on the Southside, the East and South parts were damned up with Earth: They within make no less than eight sallies in ten days, with no small prejudice to the besiegers. The King prepares for a storm, which with much valour was performed on both sides; a mine was sprung under the East gate, which they countermand by the industry of Colonel Massey the Governor. The Parliament being informed of the King's Intentions toward Gloucester, order the General to march out, who mustered about 10000 Horse and foot at Hounslow, and so marches forward for the relief of the Town. They likewise took care for recruiting an Army for Sir William Waller. The General being come within seven miles of Gloucester, fired some pieces of Ordinance to give notice of his approach. On the first of September a party of Horse is sent to face him, whilst the King drew off from the siege. Many of the King's friends much blamed him for sitting down before the Town, when he might without difficulty have come to London, and fully ended the work; for the Parliament were never in so low a condition since the beginning of the war, as they were when the King first sat down before the Town. The Lord's House being sensible of the danger, Uote a Treaty, and the Commons were consulting of it. The Parliament sent to require the assistance of their brethren of Scotland, and Vote 30000 l. be instantly borrowed for their advance. The Solemn League and Covenant was drawn up, and taken by all the Members of both Houses, and ordered to be Imposed on all the associated Counties; Doctor Featly, a reverend and learned Divine, was Imprisoned for refusing to take it. The King immediately sends out his Proclamation against it, in these words; Whereas there is printed a paper pretended to be ordered by the Commons in Parliament, on the 21 of September last, to be printed and published, which Covenant, though it seems to make specious expressions of piety and religion, it is indeed nothing else but a traitorous and seditious combination against him, and against the established religion and Laws of this Kingdom, in pursuance of a traitorous design and endeavour to bring in foreign forces to invade this Kingdom: his Majesty doth therefore straight charge and command all his loving subjects, of what degree and quality soever, upon their allegiance, that they presume not to take the said seditious and traitorous Covenant; most straight forbidding all his subjects to tender the said Covenant, as they will answer the contrary at their extremest peril. The Earl of Bedford and Holland came to Oxford to tender their allegiance to the King, but after a short stay returned to the Parliament. The marquis of Ormond, the King's Lieutetenant General in Ireland, upon the King's Letter sends over five Regiments of Soldiers for the King's service, every Officer and Soldier first took an Oath to defend the Protestant cause, and the King's person against all enemies. Essex suddenly surprises Cirencester, by killing the Centery, marched into the Town without any opposition, and in it took Great store of Arms and Ammunition, with thirty Cart Load of provisions, which was there reserved for the King's Army. From thence he marches to Chilleton. The King's Forces drew up on Maverne hills. The Earl of Essex drew off toward Hungerford, and from thence toward Newberry, which the King's Forces had possessed beforehand. On Wednesday the 20 of September 1643. was fought the famous battle of Newberry, on which depended the condition of the whole Kingdom. The King's Forces early in the morning had possessed themselves of Biggs hill: Essex his own Regiment assisted with Colonel Barkleys and Colonel Holburnes Regiment marched, and Charging furiously beat them from the Hill and possessed it. By this time a great body of the King's Horse fell on a party of Horse commanded by Sir Philip Stapleton, who received the Charge with much resolution, and beat the Enemy up to their main body. The fight continued till near night. The London Trained bands and Auxiliaries behaved themselves with much Valour and resolution. The number of the dead was not certainly known. There were divers persons of quality slain, and wounded on the King's side, as likewise divers Colours were taken and sent up to London. Colonel Massey from Gloucester moves up and down with a party of Horse, and doth much mischief to the King's Forces. The King's forces Garrison all round about Gloucester, a party of the King's Horse and foot rove up and down, and seize upon divers good booties. But the King's main body was ordered toward Reading, which was then besieged by Essex. Arundel Castle having been 28 days besieged by Sir William Waller, was delivered on Conditions. The King in December 1643. summons the Members of both Houses to appear in January following at Oxford, to advise in settling the peace of the Kingdom; where on the 22th of January they meet at the Great Hall in Christ-Church, where his Majesty declared, That if he had the least thoughts of disagreeing with the happiness of this Kingdom, he would not advise with such Councillors as they were. The Lords sat in the Upper Schools; the Commons in the Great Convocation House. There were assembled, the Prince, the Duke of York, Cumberland, Fr. Cottington, Treasurer, Ed. Littleton, Keeper of the Seal, the Duke of Richmond, and marquis of Hartford, 19 Earls, 18 Lords, 126 Knights and Gentlemen, beside a Great quantity of Noblemen, Knights, and Gentlemen, employed in his Majesty's service in the several parts of the Kingdom. Their first work was to endeavour a peace, to which purpose a Letter is sent to the Earl of Essex, which he communicates to the House at Westminster. On the 16 of January 1644. The Scots Army, consisting of 18000 foot and 2000 Horse, enter England by the way of Newcastle, and set forth a Declaration of the justness of their Cause, the Lawfulness of their Call. Newwark having been three weeks besieged by Sir John Meldram, with an Army of 7000. Prince Rupert with a body of 4000 Horse and Dragoones, and 1000 foot raises the siege. The Lord Fairfax and his Son Sir Thomas go on victoriously in the North, and in several Encounters gave divers defeats to the Earl of Newcastles forces. The Parliament at Oxford having sat from January to April, and done no great matter, the King after a Speech prorogues them to the 8 of October, and afterwards by Proclamation till the 9 of November. The Queen went from Oxford toward the West of England, in order to her going over into France, was attended the first day's journey by her too eldest Sons, and many of the Nobility. The King in presence of the Peers at Oxford, received the Sacrament from the hands of Bishop Usher, using these solemn Protestations. My Lords; I espy here many resolved Protestants, who may declare to the world the Resolution I do now make, I have to the utmost of my power prepared my soul to become a worthy receiver, and may I so receive comfort by the blessed Sacrament, as I do intent the Establishment of the true reformed Protestant Religion, as it stood in its beauty in the happy days of Queen Elizabeth, without any connivance at Popery. I bless God that in the midst of these public distractions, I have still liberty to communicate, and may this Sacrament be my damnation, if my heart do not join with my lips in this Protestation. The Countess of Derby held out Latham House against a considerable force of the Parliaments for near 18 weeks; The besiegers hearing of Prince rupert's advance for the Countess' relief, drew off from the siege, upon which they sally out and did great Execution upon the Enemy. The Parliament at Westminster Vote it treason for any Member of either House to desert them, and go to the King, and the Member or Members so doing, never to be received more into the House. In June 1644. Colonel Massey summons Malborrough, which was commanded by Colonel Hen. Howard, who refusing to deliver it up to him, causes a Great battery, and with some Great Ordinance forced his passage, who with much Courage enters the Town, put the Enemy to flight, and took above a hundred prisoners. Sir William Waller with a body of Horse and foot attends the King's motion from place to place, and near Crepida bridge, the King's Horse faced Sir William, and Charged them through and through, killed 150 men, and took all his Train of Artillery, together with divers considerable Officers, prisoners. The King presently marches to Bath, with intent to follow the Earl of Essex, who was gone that way. On the 23 of July 1644. he came to Kingsmore, and by the first of August came to Liskard, some few miles distant, where he encompassed the Earl of Essex his Army, his Majesty and Prince Maurice at Boneke; on the one side Sir Richard Greenvill in Bodnim, and Sir Jacob Astley at Hall. The King's Soldiers were very desirous to fight, but it was thought more convenient to keep them up from provisions. In eight day's attendance very little was performed, but some small skirmishes of Horse; a party of 1500 foot was sent West to prevent all provisions coming that way. Essex his Army marched toward Foy, leaving most of their great Pieces behind them, the King followed, and fell in upon the rear, forced them to retire in disorder, and had not night prevented, in all probability, the whole Army had been destroyed. The next morning Early the Earl of Essex quit his command, and went by boat to Plymouth; They require a Parley, and chose Colonel Barkley, Colonel Whichcot, and Colonel Butler on the Parliaments party; On the King's side, Prince Maurice, the Lord General, and the Lord Digby, in eight Articles the agreement was made, to deliver up all their Artillery, with all their bag and baggage, no person under the degree of a Corporal to wear any kind of weapon, all Officers above only sword and pistol; There were accordingly delivered up 49 Pieces of Brass Ordinance, 200 barrels of powder, with bullet and match proportionable, 9000 Arms for Horse and foot, some thousands of the common Soldiers were immediately upon their desire entertained in his Majesty's service. Essex endeavoureth to excuse it to the Parliament, as if by reason of waller's not pursuing the King's Army. Yet notwithstanding this Great Victory, the King sends a Message to both Houses of Parliament for a peace, and likewise a Letter to the Earl of Essex to the same purpose. The Nobility likewise subscribe a Letter to the Earl of Essex. The King from Tavestoke sends another Letter to both Houses for an accommodation; but the Parliament were so averse that nothing could prevail. The Parliament at Oxford met again, but unfortunately they fell into divisions and factions, which the King plainly perceived could produce no good effect, in March following he dissolves them. Not long after the Estates of the Low Countries send over Ambassadors to mediate in behalf of a peace betwixt the King and Parliament. Prince Rupert goes on Victoriously with a flying Army, relieves Bolton, Stopford, and Leverpoole, advances to York (in his way Raises the siege of Latham House) which was at that time besieged by the Parliaments Forces. Upon his approach the Enemy drew off their siege. They within sally out and do some mischief to the rear of the Enemy. The Prince pursues them, with a Resolution to give them Battle. At last he comes to York, upon whose approach the besiegers drew off; the Prince follows, intending to fight them, and accordingly the third of July 1644 at seven a clock in the morning the fight began, the Parliaments Forces having the advantage of the ground, being on the South side of Marston Moor, within four miles of York; the Prince with the Right wing fell on the Parliaments Forces, routs them; the General Goring, and Sir Charles Lucas, fell on the main body of the Enemy, and routed them, but pursuing them too far, the Enemy Rallied, and fell on the divided bodies, totally dispersed them, took 3000 prisoners, 20 pieces of Ordinance, beside a considerable quantity of Officers. Immediately the Lord Fairfax and his Son, the Earl of Manchester surround York; Sir Thomas Glenham being then Governor for the King, but by reason of Marston-Moore-fight, all their powder and Ammunition was spent, Sir Thomas was compelled to deliver it on honourable terms. In December 1644 William Lord Archbishop of Canterbury, after above an hundred times Attendance on the House, was by the Commons Voted Guilty of High Treason, and therefore condemned to be hanged, drawn, and quartered, which sentence he patiently received; but upon his Petition, they Vote him to be beheaded: he likewise Petitions for his Chaplain Dr Stern, to whom they join Mr Marshal (whom he refused) for the Comfort of his soul; and accordingly on the tenth of January he was conducted by Penington to the scaffold on Tower-hill, where he made his last Sermon to the people, enlarging himself on this Text, Heb. 12. and 2d, Let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the Author and finisher of our faith, who for the Joy that was set before him, endured the Cross; and despised the shame, and is now set down at the Right hand of the throne of God; which Sermon or Speech continued almost an hour, and after prayer, and some short Ejaculations, laid down his head upon the block, which the Executioner struck off at one blow, and thus with much patience and Christian magnanimity he delivered up his soul to God. Sir John Hotham in December 1644. was sentenced to lose his head, Captain Hotham was likewise Condemned and Executed the first of January, Sir John the second of January on Tower-bill. Not long after there was a treaty of peace appointed at Uxbridge; The Commissioners on both sides being met, the Proposals on both sides were made, but all hopes of peace were frustrate; Mr Love was much complained of, who preaching there, told them, That the King's Commissioners came with hearts full of blood, and that there is as great distance between this treaty and peace, as between heaven and hell, for which in stead of being checked, he is taken into favour by the Parliament. In March 1645. Sir Lewis Dives took Waymouth for the King; In which was good store of Ordinance, and all other provisions answerable, with forty small Vessels in the Harbour. The King's Forces lay siege to Melcomb Regis. Crumwell intends to join with Waller for its relief. They of the Garrison of Plymouth issue out, and beat the King's Forces from Mount Stamford, and took 150 prisoners. Sir Marmaduke Langdale went out of Oxford with 2000 Horse and Dragoones, fell upon the Lincolnshire Horse, and forced them to retire confusedly, having taken two complete troops, marched forward with Intentions to cause the Parliaments Forces to draw off, thereby to relieve Newwark, Belvoire, Ashby de la zouch, with provision to enable them to hold out the longer when they shall be attempted. They likewise endeavour the relief of Pomfret Castle, but my Lord Fairfax is ready with a body to receive him. However, Sir Marmaduke advances, falls on the Enemy, and after he had killed and taken divers hundreds, relieves the Castle, and returns to Newwark, from thence to Litchfeild, that thereby he may make choice either of going to Oxford, or joining with Prince Maurice. The King at Oxford takes care to furnish it, as also Wallingford and Banbury, with all necessary provisions for six months, and to get a formidable Army into the field this Summer. The House of Lords made the Earl of Northumberland, and his Lady, Governor and Governess of the King's Children at Whitehall. The Earl of Northampton lying at Banbury with four hundred Horse, fell on the Northampton Horse▪ routed and killed many. Major General Browne at Abbington sent out several parties at times, who returned very successful, with good store of provisions, having killed divers of the Enemy. The Commons conceive the Earl of Essex too mild in the prosecution of the war, he having had such ill success in the West; and began to think of New Moddelling the Army; to which purpose a Bill is brought into the House for Sir Thomas Fairfax to be General. They likewise Vote the Earl of Essex, to pacify him, 10000 l. per Annum out of Delinquents estates. Both Houses Vote Sir Thomas Fairfax, a Gentleman descended from a Noble and ancient family, to be General for the Parliament, who with much modesty accepted of it. On the first of April he issued out Commissions; and on the third of April went privately to Windsor, to assist in the New Moddelling of the Army. They likewise continued Lieutenant General Cromwell, a stout Champion for his Country, who having received his Commission, immediately marched and found the Enemy, and engaged them at Ipsley Bridge; the Enemy's Brigade consisted of the Queens, Colonel Wilmots, the Earl of Northampton, and Colonel Palmer's Regiments, Routed them, killed many, took 500 Horse, and 200 prisoners, together with the Queen's Standard; and pursues them to Blechingdon-house, which Colonel Windebank kept for the King. He sends a sharp Summons to the Governor to be speedily answered; The Governor doubting of relief from Oxford, immediately surrenders the House, with all the Arms and Ammunition; Cromwell immediately slighted the house, and sent the Arms to Alsbury. For which Windebank was sentenced by a Council of War at Oxford to be shot to death. The General having completed the Army, was at a loss which way he should steer his course, either to Oxford, or the West; Oxford was the King's chief Garrison, and there lay the most part of his train of Artillery, which if he could take, would be of very great consequence: but the distressed estate of Taunton, then close besieged by the King's Forces, balanced the scale, and at a Council of War it was resolved to relieve Taunton. The King at that time was in a condition to take the field, and had sent several Dispatches to that purpose. Sir Thomas Fairfax on the first of May advances with the whole Army, first to Blauford, then to Salisbury, excepting that party of Horse and Dragoones, Commanded by Lieutenant General Cromwell, and four Regiments of foot, which were ordered to join with him. The King taking the advantage of the Armies march into the West, draws forth his Artillery from Oxford, and began to gather into a considerable Body; Lieutenant General Cromwell and Browne were ordered to attend him; but being too few in number to engage, The General by the Committee of both Kingdoms was commanded back, all but a Brigade for the Relief of Taunton, which were near 5000 foot and 2000 horse, who march without any impediment till they came within ten miles of Taunton, where they discharged ten pieces of Ordinance, to give the Enemy notice of their arrival. The Enemy being informed that the General and the whole Army were within ten miles, prepare to draw off; upon which Blake made a sally out, and fell upon the rear, killed and took divers. Colonel Wildon sends a party of Horse, who approach to the walls, for the Enemy had quit it. The viewing the Town was one of the saddest spectacles that ever eyes beheld, it being almost consumed by fire, and the people almost starved. The General, and most of the Army, being come back to Newberry, were met with an order of the Committee of both Kingdoms, immediately to lay close siege to Oxford; Cromwell and Browne, that attended the King, were commanded back to assist in the work, and after fifteen days surrounding the Town, it was by a Council of War thought altogether Inconvenient to continue the siege, & the King's Army unattempted in the field, which the General presents to the Committee. The King Horses most of his foot, and moves up and down (and taking the Advantage of the Scots advance toward Westmoreland) and after he had relieved Chester, comes on and faces Leicester, Prince Rupert sent a Summons to the Town, offering quarter to the Soldiers, Townsmen and Countrymen. The Committee and Officers within, desire till next morning to return their answer. The Trumpeter no sooner comes to the King's Army, but immediately a Drum is sent to require an answer in a quarter of an hour, which while they were debating in the Town, the King's Canons from the battery began to play, and all were commanded to their Charge, in order to a storm; the Contest continued a day and a night, with a great deal of Resolution on both sides. In some breaches they came to push of Pike. On Saturday at three of the Clock they entered the Town, and in hot blood many were put to the sword, some plunderd. On the other side, Colonel Massey with 2000 Horse and foot, having lain two days before Evisham, stormed the Town, and took it, with the Governor, and twenty Officers, 500 foot, 120 Horse, with all the Arms and Ammunition. The Commons order six hundred men to be sent for the security of Portsmouth. There came news from the West, that General Goring, Sir Ralph Hopton, and Sir Richard Greenvill, had joined together, and fall'n upon that party that had relieved Taunton, and forced them to retire to Taunton in great disorder. Upon the news of the taking of Leicester, the Commons order that the straightening of Oxford be turned to a close siege; Lieutenant General Cromwell was ordered toward Ely, to prevent the Kings breaking into the associated Counties: they like vice order the Earl of Leven to advance with the Scots Army, and to join with Colonel Vermuden, to prevent the Kings going Northward. But upon second thoughts the Commons order the General to raise the siege at Oxford, and to take care to preserve the associated Counties, and fight the King. The General on his removal viewed Bostoll House, and ordered a party to besiege it. He likewise sent a party of Horse and foot, Commanded by Colonel Rainsborough, to summon Gaunt House; The Governor upon the first summons returned answer, that he liked not Windebanks Law, but the next day Rainsborough having provided all things ready for a storm, the Governor caused a parley to be beaten, and surrendered upon Quarter. Lieutenant General Cromwell, moving up and down in Cambridge-shire, Huntingdon, and Ely, managed his business with so much discretion, as that he was able to have raised an Army of 12000 men to assist him in following the King. But leaving those Counties in a posture of defence, he marches toward the General with 600 Horse and Dragoones. The King sends a party of Horse, and faces Northampton, he himself being at harbour with the main Body. The King sends 1200 Horse with good store of Cattles and sheep to Oxford) which immediately return. Sir Thomas Fairfax came with the Army to Wotton, thence to Glastenborough, within five miles of Burrough hill, where the King's Forces were all drawn up in a readiness. The General for the Parliament advances from Gilling to Naseby, endeavouring to engage the Enemy, the scouts discover that they were at harbour, and great bodies of Horse appeared on the hills nigh Harbour; he order a Rendezvous of the Army near Naseby, and to put them in such a posture, that should the King advance toward them, they might, having the advantage of ground, receive him. By this time the King's Army advances, endeavouring to get the wind, which occasioned Sir Thomas Fairfax to draw off the Army into a large fallow field, toward the Northwest of Naseby, which was defended on the right hand with a Hedge, a place very convenient for a battle. January 13. 1645. the King draws off from Burrough hill, the scouts bringing Intelligence of the Parliaments Army approaching, took up their quarters in Naseby. Ireton with a flying party of Horse fell upon the flank of the Enemy, killed some, and took divers prisoners, which so alarumed the King that he posts to Harbour for better security; summons a Council of War, and considered that should they draw off and march to Leicester, if the rear were engaged, the whole Army might be in danger, and they could with no safety march with the Van till the Rear was secured; whereupon it was resolved to give battle, which was the most fatal and destructive to the King that ever happened since the first beginning of the quarrel; yet many of the principal Officers endeavoured to persuade to avoid fight. The King Commanded the main body; The Right wing was Commanded by Prince Rupert and Prince Maurice; The Left by Sir Marmaduke Langdale; The Right Hand Reserve by the Earl of Lindsey, and Sir Jacob Astley; The Left by the Lord Bards, and Sir George Lisle. Sir Thomas Fairfax Commanded the main Body; Lieutenant General Cromwell the Right Wing; Ireton the Left: Prince Rupert falls in on the Left wing, Routs them, pursues them to Naseby Town, and being too eager of the plunder, lost the King the day; for in his absence Lieutenant General Cromwell Charges furiously on the King's Left Wing, and forced them to retire from the body; Sir Thomas Fairfax with the main body advances, falls on the King's body, who received them with much Valour and courage; Great Rallying there was on both sides, and for a long time the battle was fought with Equal Courage, but it pleased God to give the Victory to the Parliaments Forces; for upon their Rallying they recovered Courage and Charged with greater fury, forcing the King's Forces to fly, and had the pursuit of them within two miles of Leicester, which is near fourteen miles. They left behind them all their train of Artillery, bag and baggage, many were slain, 4000 taken prisoners, 200 Wagons, 3000 Horse, many Officers of note. On the Parliaments side about 1000 Officers and Common Soldiers, divers Officers wounded. Great were the successes of the Parliament in divers places. In the field was taken the King's Cabinet of Letters, which were sent up to the Parliament, and by them published. The marquis of Winchester held out Basin House for the King a long time after it was besieged. The Parliaments Forces despairing of gaining it drew off. This was the last pitched Battle that ever the King fought. The King with some forces fled to Leicester, and not conceiving himself safe by reason of the Parliaments forces advance, goes to Ashbe de la Zouch, where after he had rested himself a small time, in the dead of the night went to Litchfield, and so into Wales. Sir Marmaduke Langdale fled the same night to Newwark. Monday the 16 of June, the Parliaments General and Army comes before Leicester: The General summons the Governor immediately to deliver the Town, with all the Arms and Ammunition: the Lord Hastings being Governor returns answer, that he would not deliver it, but hold it out to the last man; which occasioned the General to Issue out Warrants to summon the Country to bring in Ladders and things necessary for a storm. And on the 17 of June they began to storm; the Governor perceiving the danger, sends a Trumpet to desire a parley for the delivery of the Town; which was concluded in then Articles, and the next day the Town was delivered up. In it was 14 piece of Ordinance, 30 Colours, 2000 Arms, 500 Horse, with divers other necessaries for war. The King returns for Hereford with 2000 foot, that Major General Gerhard had raised in Wales for him, and posts over Severne toward Bristol; Prince Rupert following him with 3000 Horse. Sir William Brereton in Shropshire, sell on a party of the Kings, routed them, and took 300 prisoners. Not long after Sir Thomas Glenham, Governor of Carlisle for the King, having been a considerable time besieged, and having no hopes of Relief, delivers up the Town on honourable Conditions. Sir Thomas Fairfax marches with the best part of the Army to the Relief of Taunton, then besieged by Goring. At that time there was in the West a multitude of Rude people called Clubmen, who declaring for the King, did great mischief to divers of the Parliaments Garrisons; they boldly Capitulate with Sir Thomas Fairfax at Dorchester, and desire safe passage for such as they should appoint to go both to the King and Parliament, in order to an Accommodation. Sir Thomas civilly sends them an answer, which not answering their expectation, and fearing to oppose so potent an Army, they draw off in discontent, not without doing some mischief to the Governor of Linne then for the Parliament. Upon the news of Sir Thomas Fairfax his arrival within a days march of Taunton, Goring draws off his forces, the besieged sally out, and forced the rear to retreat in disorder; upon the Enemy's flight, the Army advances, falls upon the Rear, and took divers prisoners. They still pursuing, at last engaged Goring at Langport, whom they worsted and put to flight, having taken divers Colours, some Arms and Ammunition. The General returns with the Army, and resolves to besiege Bridgewater, and having stayed some time till supplies came, he closely begirts the Town, summons the Governor, who returns a resolute answer, being every way well fortified and provided. The General resolves to storm it on Monday the 22 of July 1645. Which accordingly was performed with much Resolution; but the enemy within being nothing daunted, fling Granades and other combustible stuff, to the prejudice of the besiegers. The General the next day sends a Message, telling them that their denial had wrought in him no thoughts of Compassion, but only to women and children, who might otherwise suffer by the Governors' obstinacy, and accordingly divers Ladies and Gentlewomen and Children came out of the Town. The General assaults them again, and at last compels them to a surrender; they all to submit themselves prisoners, and the Town to be preserved from plunder, which accordingly was performed. Immediately after Pomfret and Scarborough Castles were surrendered; no Relief being expected. Toward the latter end of July, the General summoned Bath, which was accordingly surrendered. In August 1645. Lieutenant General Cromwell falls on the Clubmen, who at that time were very high and insolent, kills divers, and took above 300 prisoners. The General summons Sherburne Castle, of which Sir Lewis Dives was Governor, who returned a resolute answer; but the next day was taken by storm. The General immediately resolves to besiege Bristol, which was governed by Prince Rupert; Orders were sent for Ships to begird it by Sea, he summons the Governor, who refusing to surrender, immediately he surrounds it; they within sally out six or seven times, not without loss on both sides: at last it was agreed, to send a positive summons, and upon refusal to storm it. The Prince requires leave to know the King's mind, but the General would by no means permit it. Upon the Prince's refusal, at a Council of War it was resolved to storm it, which accordingly was with much Courage performed; the Town was fired in many places, which moved the Prince to request a parley, which the General consented too, on condition that care should be taken to quench the fire, and accordingly by Articles of agreement the 11 of September 1645. The City with all the Arms & Ammunition was delivered up. The Prince with the rest, immediately march to Oxford. During the time of bristols siege, news was brought of the several successes of Montrosse in Scotland, against the Covenanters, which moved the General, Lieutenant General, and all the Colonels of the Regiments, to subscribe a Letter to General Leaven of the Condition of the Kingdom, and their willingness to spare forces for their assistance. All this while the King moves up and down, sometimes in Wales, sometimes in one County, sometimes in another, still hearing the mishaps and disasters happening on the neck one of another; so that all his hopes were almost frustrate. Lieutenant General Cromwell with part of the Army marches Westward, who after he had sound battered the Castle at the Devizes, forced it to be surrendered; and not many days after he comes before Winchester, and summons it, which was on honourable Conditions surrendered. He immediately marches to Basing-House, (which for a time had been besieged, but to no purpose) and having summoned it, he on refusal resolved to storm it, by which means he got it. The General was now before Tiverton, and had raised several Batteries, by which means he gained the Town. In October 1645. Langford-House was delivered up to Lieutenant General Cromwell. The General approaches near Exeter, October 20. 1645. summons it, and received a flat denial; it was for sometime besieged, but by reason the King had a body moving up & down, it was twice deserted, only a party left to surround it; upon the Armies return from the West after it was stormed, was delivered up on Articles. He likewise summons Dartmouth, on refusal, took it by storm. A great defeat was given to Hopton at Torrington, who not long after was forced to disband his Army in the West. Sir Marmaduke Langdale received a great defeat near Sherburne. In March, Ashbe de la zouch was surrendered to the Parliaments forces. In the same Month Prince Charles set sail for Scilly, with divers Lords and Gentlemen. Other Garrisons, as Westchester, Barnstable, St michael's Mount, Ruthen Castle, Woodstock, together with divers other Garrisons were delivered up to the Parliament. The Scots Army was at that time besieging Newwark, with the assistance of some Yorkshire Horse. There was not at that time a Town or Castle in England, but what was either besieged or blocked up by the Parliaments forces. The Commons Vote the Committee of Darby-House, to take care to besiege Oxford, and accordingly the General having secured the West, returns with intent to besiege it, which at that time was the King's Royal seat. The King Causes a Muster of Horse, which in all amounted to 1100 Horse and Dragoones; great care is taken to make good the Works, and to repair what ever is amiss. The Town being besieged, the King offers to come to the two Houses, upon assurance of the safety of his person, and to advise with them for the good and safety of the Kingdom, Provided all that have adhered to his Majesty may have Liberty to go to their own homes in safety, their sequestrations to be taken off; upon these conditions his Majesty is willing to disband all his Soldiers, and dismantle his Garrisons, pass an act of oblivion and free pardon to all. These Propositions the Parliament would by no means consent unto, they having him at that advantage. The King seeing no hopes, on the 27 of April 1646. in disguise came out of Oxford, attended by Mr John Ashburnham, and one more; several conjectures past which way he should go. The Parliament being misinformed that he was come to London, Order that Proclamation be made, that whosoever shall conceal his Majesty, shall die as a traitor, and forfeit his estate. On the sixth of May 1646. His Majesty came to the Scots Army, and had cast himself upon them, which occasioned the Scotch Commissioners to write to the Parliament, that contrary to their expectation the King was come to their Army, engaging to stand for the Interest of the Kingdom. The Commons Vote that his Majesty's person be disposed of, as both Houses shall desire and direct, and that he be sent to Warwick Castle. Upon the King's desire to the Governor, Newark was delivered up to the English. The Scots marched away to Rippon with the King. The Parliament seeing the King was got into the Scots possession, sent a Letter to the Prince of Wales, then in Gersie, to invite him to come to London, with promise of Honour and safety, but he durst not venture. The siege before Oxford being more close then formerly, the General sent a summons to Sir Thomas Glenham the Governor, who sent a civil answer, with a request, that Sir John Minson and Mr Philip Warwick, may inform his Excellency in order to a Treaty, and accordingly on Articles it was surrendered on Honourable terms. The 19 of May the Scots Army came with the King to Newcastle; the reason of their retreating Northward, was for fear that Sir Thomas Fairfax should have fall'n on them, and compelled them to deliver up the King. A great dispute was at Newcastle betwixt the King and Mr Alexander Henderson, which was since published. Divers Propositions were presented to the King, by the Commissioners from the Parliament, who were, the Earl of Pembroke, Earl of Suffolk, Sir Walter Earl, Sir John Ipsley, Mr Goodwin, and Mr Robinson, who came to Newcastle the 27 of July, and ordered to return in ten days; the next day the Propositions were presented, and his Majesty promised an answer within the time; but withal told them, that if they had not power to treat, they might as well have sent a Trumpet; at the reading of the Propositions his Majesty protested he would never give away his Crown and Militia, and further told Mr Martial, he could not in Conscience sign some things therein required. His Majesty gave the Commissioners in a Paper, which not being satisfactory they return to London. The Scots likewise petition him to take the Covenant, and likewise they set out a Declaration of their Intentions for the good of both Kingdoms. Litchsield, Worcester, and Wallingford, were all delivered on Articles. In July 1646. Prince Rupert went for France, and Prince Maurice for the Hague, where they both safely arrived. The Duke of York came for London, and was Honourably received by the Nobility. His Majesty wrote four times to Montrosse, at the Scots Commissioners request, to lay down his Arms. In August 1646. the Commons order the Presbytenan Government to be settled in London. In the same Month the Commons caused the Great Seal to be broken in the Lord's House. The 14 of September 1646. died the Noble Earl of Essex, of an Apoplexy; a man truly faithful to the Interest of his Country. The House having respect to his former service, Voted 3000 l. to be given toward his funeral; Mr. Vines preached his funeral Sermon; he was Honourably attended to his Grave, not without much Lamentation. Upon the King's refusal of the Propositions, the Scots sent Commissioners to the Parliament to desire an agreement betwixt them. Pendennis and Ragland Castle are in August surrendered. The Scots Commissioners demand 500000 l. upon the payment of which they offer to deliver up the King. And accordingly it was Voted by the House to deliver 200000 l. then borrowed of the Citizens of London, and raised out of the sail of the Bishop's Lands, together with the assistance of the Excize, and 200000 l. more secured to them to be paid at several times. October the 8th 1646. the House Votes to every Member 1000 l. a piece, in recompense of their Good service, and that so many as are Lawyers may have Liberty to plead within the Bar; and likewise the Lord Fairfax 1000 l. per Annum. The Scots being encouraged by the Votes of the House, pretend, that Scotland was much exhausted by the late war, and that his Majesty's presence in Scotland, might endanger the peace of that Nation; so that it may truly be said of him, as the Scripture expresseth of our Lord and Saviour; He came to his own, and his own received him not. At last it was concluded, 100000 l. to be told at York, sealed and put in boxes; The Scots to give Hostages to deliver up Newcastle, Tinmouth, and all other Garrisons, thereabout; the other 100000 l when they shall go on the other side of Tine; The other 200000 l. to be secured to be paid out of Delinquents estates; They to deliver up the King, and depart home, and quit all their Garrisons. The Assemblies Confession of Faith, was Voted by the House to be printed. And likewise an Ordinance passed for continuing the Army under Sir Thomas Fairfax for six months, and the disbanding Major General Masseys' Brigade. The Common Enemy being quite beaten out of the field, there happened sad divisions in the Parliament and Army at home; They were distinguished into two several parties, under the title of Presbyterian and Independent, the Independent being the most subtle and close, Insinuated into the most part of the Army, and carried on their designs with greater Vigour and Resolution than the other, as the sequel will manifest. The King from Newcastle on the 20 of December 1646. sends a Message to both Houses of Parliament at Westminster, and to the Commissioners of the Parliament of Scotland, for a personal Treaty. Charles R. His Majesty's thoughts have been always sincerely bend to the peace of his Kingdoms, was and will be ever desirous to take all ways that might most clearly make appear the candour of his Intentions to his people, and to this end could find no better way then to propose a personal and free debate with his two Houses of Parliament, upon all the present differences: yet finding very much contrary to his expectation, that this offer was laid aside, His Majesty beat all his thoughts to make his Intentions fully known by a particular answer to the Propositions delivered to him in the name of both Kingdoms the 24 of July last; and that his Majesty plainly saw, that whatsoever answer he could give, was subject to misinformations and misconstructions, which upon his own explanation he is confident will give good satisfaction for the settling of a lasting peace; to which purpose his Majesty desireth to come to London, or any of his Houses thereabouts, upon the public faith and security of his two Houses, where by his personal presence he may not only raise a mutual confidence betwixt him and his people, but also have those doubts cleared, and those difficulties explained to him, assuring them that he will make no other demands, but such as he believes confidently to be just, and such as will tend much to the tranquillity of the people; for except King and people have reciprocal care each of other, neither can be happy. To conclude, it is your King that desires to be heard, (the which if refused to a subject by a King, he would be thought a tyrant for it) wherefore his Majesty requests you to accept this offer, and that it will be the readiest way to make these Kingdoms a Comfort to their Friends, and a Terror to their Enemies. The Lords and Commons after some time, sent a Letter by Sir Peter Killigrew, in answer to the King's Message. Both Houses Voted his Majesty to come to his House at Holmbey in Northamptonshire, a House not Inferior to any in the Kingdom. They likewise Vote, that the Earl of Pembroke, the Earl of Denbigh, and the Lord Montague, Sir Walter Earl, Sir John Holland, Sir James Harrington, Sir John Cooks, Mr. Crew, and Major General Browne, with Mr Martial and Mr Caryl to attend them, be sent as Commissioners to receive the King at Newcastle, and to conduct him to Holmbey. They likewise ordered divers servants to attend him. The sixth of February 1646. The Scots according to agreement quit Newcastle, and the English possessed it; they likewise delivered up his Majesty to the Commissioners sent by the Parliament; his Majesty seemed somewhat unwilling at first to go to Holmbey, rather choosing to go to Newmarket; but after a short time he was satisfied; but by no means he could be drawn to hear Mr. Martial or Mr. Caryl preach, hoping they will allow him his Conscience. Monday the 8 of February, his Majesty with a sad and sorrowful Countenance set forward with the Commissioners, attended with 900 Horse, and that night came to Durham, on thursday to Aukland, friday to Richmond, saturday to Rippon, and there rested the Sabbath day, Monday to Leeds, tuesday to Wakefeild, wednesday to Rotheram, so to Mansfeild, thence to Leicester, where he stays the next Lord's day; on Monday He sets forward for Holmbey, whither being no sooner come, but Proclamation is made, that none that had deserted the Parliament and assisted the King, should presume to come near his Majesty. Sir Thomas Fairfax came to Leicester with a considerable part of the Army, where he was met with the Mayor and Aldermen in state. His Majesty sent a Letter to the House to request his Chaplains to be sent to him, he named twelve; viz. Bishop of London, Bishop of Salisbury, Bishop of Peterborough, Dr Shelden, Dr March, Dr Sanderson, Dr Bailie, Dr Hamond, Dr Beàle, Dr Haywood, Dr Fuller, Dr Tailor, but desired any two; hearing no answer, he sent a second Letter, but still they delayed sending an answer. The 25 of February, his Majesty at the Commissioners request, kept the fast, ordered by the Commons, it happening on the same day that he had appointed, for the Calamities of Ireland. February the 28 his Majesty was pleased to bestow a visit on the Earl of Pembroke, who was at that time dangerously sick. His Majesty made a Resolution to keep every friday a day of solemn fasting and humiliation. The Commons Vote and Order what Garrisons shall be slighted, and which continued. The Parliament Vote likewise the remainder of the Army to disband, all but those that were appointed for Ireland, and the several Garrisons. Upon which divers Petitions came in from several Counties to the General, not to disband till such time as he had fully settled the Kingdom; whereupon immediately the Army had a Rendezvous, and draw up a Petition to be presented to the Parliament, That their arrears might be paid; An act of Indemnity pass, to secure them; that the foot might not be compelled to serve out of the Kingdom; that the widows and children of such as had lost their lives in the service might be provided for; which Petition was presented by Colonel Hamond, Colonel Rich, and Colonel Ireton. The Parliament shown their dislike of the Petition, and Vote that those that shall continue in this disturbing condition, shall be proceeded against as enemies to the State. Petitions were likewise on the other side out of Essex, and other Counties, presented to the Parliament, of their utter dislike of the Armies proceed. But to close the breach, Commissioners are chosen by the Parliament and Army, and meet in order to a Right understanding. The Parliament order 60000 l. a month for payment of the Forces appointed, to prevent free quarter. Upon his Majesty's desire to come near London, the Lords Vote him to come to Otelands', so soon as the House can be provided; to which the Commissioners consent. After his Majesty had been near five months at Holmbey, on the fourth of June 1646. near a thousand Soldiers, Commanded by Cornet Joyce, came somewhat late to Holmbey, and desired to speak with his Majesty; it was answered that then it was unseasonable; However, with much Importunity Cornet Joyce was admitted into his Majesty's presence, where he told him he was come by command of the Army to remove him from that place; his Majesty replied, it was then too late, but in the morning he would speak further with him. His Majesty according to his promise came down in the morning to the Cornet, where he was attended by the Soldiers; he asked them by what Authority they came there; they replied from the Army; He further asked if they came from Sir Thomas Fairfax his Army; the Cornet replied from the Army. His Majesty said, what if I should refuse to go with you, would you compel me; they replied, we hope your Majesty will not refuse, but we have command to bring you. His Majesty replied, I have these Questions to put to you, which if you consent to, I will go with you. The first was, That he might have no violence offered to his person; they all unanimously shouted and cried out, none, none. Secondly, He desired that his trunks and papers might not be rifled and tumbled; they promised to set a Guard on them, and that they should not be touched. Thirdly, He required such servants to attend him, against whom there was no just acceptions; they answered he should. Lastly, He desired that nothing be Imposed upon him contrary to his Conscience; they answered, it was not their Judgement to force-any thing against conscience on any one, much less on his Majesty; At one of the Clock his Majesty went along with them. The next day the General sent a Letter to the Parliament, to certify that he knew nothing of the party that attended his Majesty, neither what number, nor by what Authority: the reason that the party had sent to him, he sends up, which was that there were certain persons that intended to take away his Majesty, thereby to make a new war, the plot and plotters they were able to prove, when called thereunto, which necessitated them to secure his Majesty's person. His Majesty was according to his own desire, conveyed to Newmarket; by this we see clearly, that the Greatest in the world, are but pilgrims on Earth. The General and Army Rendezvous at St Alban's, and sent a Letter of his Intentions to come to London with the Army. Eleven Members of the Commons House are Impeached by the Army. On the 28 of June, 1647. His Majesty was brought to Hatfield, the Duke of Richmond attending him, with many of the old Courtiers. Dr Hamond and divers others of his Chaplains were admitted to read divine service to him, according to the Ancient custom of the Church of England. The House being Informed of the Duke of Richmond, and the Chaplains attendants on his Majesty, Order a Letter to be forthwith sent to the Governor for their removal. The General by Letters certify the Parliament of his Majesty's desire to see his Children, and his request for continuance of those persons about him; and further to satisfy them, that the Army have no treaty with his Majesty, nor aim at nothing more than the settling of the peace of the Kingdom. From Hatfield his Majesty was removed to Causum, attended by all that waited on him at Hatfield, excepting the Duke of Richmond, who voluntarily absented himself. The House according to the King's request, order his Children to go to him, and the Earl of Northumberland to attend them; his Majesty was Joyful at the sight of his Children. The General being in the presence Chamber was much respected, which moved the Princess to ask who it was, who being Informed it was the General, she immediately addressed herself to him with great civility, and thanked him for this great happiness, that she then enjoyed the sight of her dear Father, effected by him alone, which she should ever thankfully acknowledge, and endeavour to requite. The General returned humble thanks, and that what he had done was but the least of those duties he was obliged to serve his Majesty and Children in, and kissing her Hand withdrew. The Eleven Members discharge themselves of their charge, and require leave of the House to go beyond Sea, which was consented too. Upon the Army's removing to Bedford, his Majesty was brought to Wooborne, a House of the Lord of Bedfords, with his old attendance. The Parliament Order the Militia of London to raise Forces, and immediately the Trained Bands and Auxiliaries are commanded to man the Forts, upon Information of the Armies coming to London; Colonel Massey was appointed Major General, Colonel Poins and others are put into Command. The General Orders a Rendezvous at Hounslow, in order to his coming to London; thither divers of the Members of both Houses with the Speaker repair, and consult of Getting the City without blood, and accordingly a party is sent to face Southwark Fort, upon whose approach it was delivered up to them. The City petitions the General. The General requires all the Forts from Tyburn to the Thames, to be delivered up to him, that he might Guard the Parliament, and secure the eleven Members. On the seventh of August the General and Army march in triumph through the City, most of the Soldiers having Bays in their hats in token of Victory. Immediately Sir Thomas Fairfax is made Constable of the Tower, by which he hath power to constitute a Lieutenant, and accordingly the Honour was conferred on Colonel Titchburne. Massey and Poyns fly over into Holland. The General presents a Declaration to the House of the Grounds and reasons of the Armies March. The Lords and Commons Null all those Votes that past during the time that the Major part of the House went to the General. On the twelfth of August was appointed a thanksgiving for the preservation of the City. His Majesty was removed to oatland's; on the 23 of August, he went to Zion to visit his Children, and rested that night. Upon his Majesty's desire he was removed to Hampton Court, and his Children ordered to be with him. Both Houses order the Casting down of the Works about the City, the maintaining whereof was very chargeable and burdensome. The Houses Vote of sending Propositions to his Majesty; to which the Scotch Commissioners consent, and on the seventh of February 1647. they were carried to his Majesty by Major General Browne, and the Scotch Commissioners, who were to bring an answer in six days; upon the Receipt of the Propositions, he desired to know whether they were the same with those he received at Newcastle; it was answered, there was only some little alterations as to persons that served him in the late war; then he desired to know of the Scotch Commissioners, if they concurred, they answered they did. His Majesty said they were matters of Great concernment, and required serious consideration, but he would take care that they should have an answer within the time limited. The Committee and Commissioners order 6000 foot, 2400 Horse, and 500 Dragoones, to be sent into Ireland, and care was taken to provide all necessary provisions. The Commons likewise Order a month's Gratuity to be given to the Army. They likewise Vote a standing Army of 18000 foot, 7200 Horse, and a 1000 Dragoones be kept up as a standing Army for England. An answer came from his Majesty, which was by the House Voted not satisfactory. The Commons took into consideration the Actions of divers Eminent Citizens in London tending to a new war, Vote a Charge of high nature be brought in; and the Lord Mayor, Alderman adam's, Alderman Langham, Alderman Bunce, and Sheriff Cullam, with divers other active Citizens were taken into Custody; divers Lords were committed to the Black Rod, as the Earl of Lincoln, Earl of Suffolk, Lord Barkley, Lord Willowby, Lord Maynard, Lord Hunsden. September the 28. 1647. The Commons once more Vote to send to his Majesty, and to that purpose they considered of several Propositions; That about Religion being the main thing; They also Vote his Majesty be desired to give his consent to such Act or Acts of Parliament, as shall be presented to him for settling of Presbyterian Government, according to the matter of several Ordinances of Parliament, for the Directory or Church Government to continue for the space of three years, from the time that the King shall give his consent to such Act or Acts. They likewise Voted the common-prayer-book shall not be used in private. The Soldiers about his Majesty are very civil, permitting his Majesty to Hunt with the Duke of Richmond, marquis of Hartford, marquis of Ormond, Earl of Southampton, and divers others of the Nobility, without any Interruption. His Majesty sent a Letter to the General, desiring his Children to stay with him a night or two, it being too great a Journey to go and come to St James' in a day; which he communicates to the Parliament. They Order the Earl of Northumberland to satisfy his Majesty about his Children. The Heads of the Propositions agreed upon by both Houses, to be presented to his Majesty, were these. 1. The Militia for twenty years in the hands of Parliament, or Committee of Parliament, in intervals. 2. Money be raised to pay the public debts of the Kingdom. 3. All Honours bestowed by his Majesty since the 22 of May 1642. to be Null and Void. 4. Nulling his Majesty's Great Seal, and confirming that of the Parliament. 5. Totally to abolish Bishops, and their Hierarchy, root and branch. 6. All their Lands to be sold for the payment of public debts, and other necessary Charges of the Kingdom. 7. Make void the cessation of Ireland. 8. The Election of all the Chief Officers of trust, as Treasurer, Admiral, be by Parliament, and they to hold during their good behaviour. The Deputy of Ireland to be appointed by Parliament, and to hold during pleasure. 9 The Presbyterian Government to be settled, as to the Religious service of God. 10. The Treaties betwixt England and Scotland be confirmed, as it is now agreed. 11. Justices of peace and Sheriffs to be Chosen by Grand Jury men. 12. That his Majesty restore all such servants to their places, as have been put out for adhering to the Parliament. 13. That his Majesty pass an Act for the sale of Deane and Chapters Lands, and the money to be disposed of, as both Houses of Parliament shall think fit. 14. That his Majesty shall not give pardon of Life to seven excepted persons. 15. That his Majesty pass an Act for the disforresting all the Forests and Chases in England. 16. That his Majesty pass an Act for securing the arrears of the Soldiers of the Army, and all other Soldiers that have served the Parliament, and those arrears to be paid out of the Remainder of Bishop's Lands. 17. That the Count of Wards be null, and that his Majesty have 50000 l. per Annum in lieu of it. 18. A period may be set to this Parliament. All which being Granted, His Majesty, the Queen, and Prince, to Enjoy their revenues, and the King to Govern. The Commons order divers of his Majesty's old servants be discharged, and that there be a stricter Guard then usual. The Scotch Commissioners sent a Letter to the House of the deep sense of his Majesty's Imprisonment, withal desiring his Majesty may come to London, to treat with Honour, Freedom, and Safety, and advise that it would withal be the most profitable and effectual means for attaining of a happy peace, and settling Religion, the Restoring of his Majesty to his just Rights, and continuing and strengthening a good understanding with both Nations. Which Letter was laid aside. News was brought to the House, that his Majesty had made an escape out of his restraint from Hampton Court. The manner thus; November 11. 1647. He according to his custom, withdrew himself to be private a little before Evening prayer, staying somewhat longer than was usual, it was taken notice of, yet at first without suspicion; but he not coming forth suddenly, there were fears, which increased by the Crying of a Grayhound several times within in the room; and upon search it was found that the King was gone, and by the way of Paradise, a place so called in the garden, much about the close of the Evening. He left on the Table three Papers, one to the Parliament, one to the Commissioners, and a third to Colonel Whaly; one of them was as followeth. Liberty being that which in all times hath been, but especially now is the condition, the aim and desire of all men, common reason shows that Kings, less than any, should endure captivity; yet I call God to witness, with what patience I have endured a tedious restraint, which so long as I had any hopes that this sort of my suffering might conduce to the peace of my Kingdoms, or the hindering of more effusion of blood, I did willingly undergo; but now finding by too certain proofs, that this my continued patience, must not only turn to my personal ruin, but likewise be of more prejudice than furtherance to the public good, I thought I was bound as well by natural as political obligations, to seek my safety, by retiring myself sometime from the public view, both of my friends and enemies, and I appeal to all indifferent men to judge, if I have not just cause to free myself from the hands of those, who change their principles with their condition, and who are not ashamed openly to Intent the destruction of Nobility by taking away their negative voice, and with whom the Levellers Doctrine is rather countenanced then punished, and for their Intentions to my person, their charging and putting more strict Guards upon me, with the discharging most of all those servants of mine, who formerly they willingly admitted to wait on me, do sufficiently declare; nor would I have this my retirement misinterpreted, for I shall earnestly and uncessantly endeavour these things for a safe & well-grounded peace, where ever I am, or shall be (and that as much as may be) without the effusion of more Christian blood, for which how many times have I desired, yea pressed to be heard, & yet no ear given me; and can any reasonable man think that according to the ordinary course of affairs, there can be a settled peace without it, or that God will bless those who refuse to hear their own King, surely no. Nay I must further add, that (besides what concerns myself) unless all other chief Interests have not only a hearing, but likewise just satisfaction given unto them, (to wit, the Presbyterians, Independents, Army, those who have adhered to me, and even the Scots) I say there cannot (I speak not of miracles, it being in my opinion a simple persuasion in such cases to expect or trust to them) be a safe and lasting peace. Now I cannot deny but that as my personal security is the urgent cause of my retirement, so I call God to witness, that the public peace is no less before my eyes, and I can find no better way to express this my profession (I know not what a wiser man can do) then by desiring and urging, that all chief Interests may be heard, to the end each may have satisfaction; as for example, the Army (for the rest though necessary, yet I suppose are not difficult to content) ought in my judgement to enjoy the Liberty of their consciences, and to have an act of oblivion and Indemnity, which shall extend to all the rest of my Subjects, and that all their arrears shall be speedily and duly paid, this I will undertake to do, so I may be heard, and that I may not be hindered from using such lawful and honest means as I shall choose. To conclude, Let me be heard with freedom, Honour and safety, and I shall instantly break through this cloud of retirement, and shall show my self readyto be Pater Patriae. Charles R. His absence struck all into amazement; The Parliament order his near attendance to be under restraint until examination; all the Seaports to be laid to prevent his Majesty's Transportation. They likewise Voted that whosoever shall conceal his Majesty, shall forfeit Life and estate. Every one was big with Expectation to know what was become of his Majesty. On the 15 of October, 1647. Information was brought to the House that his Majesty was safe at the Isle of Wight, and had put himself into the protection of Colonel Hamond, than Governor of the Island. His Majesty told the Governor, that there was a design against his person, which moved him to fly thither for safety. The Lords and Commons were well satisfied with his Majesty's being there; and Order those servants that attended him at Hampton Court, to attend him there. On the 18 of November, his Majesty sent a Letter to the Parliament, and another to the Scotch Commissioners, giving them to understand of his being, as he apprehended, in more safety there then at Hampton Court, and doth profess his readiness as to an agreement, and though he cannot consent to alter the Government by Archbishops and Bishops, neither as a Christian, because Apostolical, nor as a King, because at his Coronation he swore to maintain this order, yet he is willing to consent, that their power be so limited that they be not grievous to tender Consciences. For the sale of Church Lands, he accounts it sacrilege, that it subverts the Intent of the Donors, discourages learning; He is willing Presbytery be continued for three years, provided those that cannot concur be not obliged, and that a free debate be had with the Divines at Westminster, and twenty that he shall appoint, to resolve how Church Government hereafter shall be settled, with full Liberty to all that differ, yet without toleration of Popery, Atheism, or blasphemy. He is willing to put the Militia both by Sea and Land to be disposed of by his two Houses, or who they shall appoint for his Reign, provided it return to his Successors; that it be limited to suppress disturbance in this Kingdom, and against foreign Invasion, and that the power go from his Majesty by Grant of Patent to those that act. He is willing and consenting to the payment of the arrears of the Army, and that he will undertake to raise 400000 l. in eightteen months, and if that will not do, he is willing to give way for the sale of Forrest Lands; and for payment of other debts his Majesty is willing to pass such an Act as both Houses shall consent to. He is willing the Parliament do choose privy Councillors during his Reign, provided they have their Patent from him. He is willing the Court of Wards be taken away, provided there be a valuable consideration allowed, and that care may be had of his Children, who were by that Court cared for. And that the memory of these late sad distractions may be quite wiped away, he is willing to Null all Oaths, Declarations, Proclamations, against both or either Houses of Parliament, or any Indictment against any for adhering to them. And his Majesty offers as the best expedient, an Act of oblivion to all his subjects. And although his Majesty cannot in Honour and Justice make void all his Acts and Grants under his Seal, since the 22 of May 1642. yet he doubts not but upon perusal, to give full satisfaction to his two Houses in that. And thus he conceives he hath satisfied all Interests, for other things that may be proposed to him from both Houses of Parliament, on his part he moves earnestly for a personal Treaty at London; all which being done, he believes the Houses will think it reasonable to think of such Proposals as were made by the Army, touching the succession of Parliaments, and their due Election. For the Kingdom of Scotland, he is ready to give satisfaction to what shall be propounded. Not long after the Scots sent a Letter to the Parliament, that they Regret that no answer is given to their Letter, and that they are informed that Propositions are to be sent without allowing any competent time to consider. They take notice of his Majesty's being carried from Holmbey, and his just cause of going from Hampton Court. And in regard the Kingdom of Scotland are highly concerned in the safety of his Majesty's person, and in duty bound to do their best to prevent his ruin, they therefore desire his Majesty may come to London, to treat with Honour, freedom and safety, and that neither he nor his Parliament be Environed with Soldiers, that so their consultations being free, all differences may be ended by a personal Treaty, the best way to settle a sure and lasting peace. See the uncertainty of men in the world, that those very Scots that had not long before declared, that it was altogether Inconvenient for the Parliament to admit his Majesty to come to London, until he had given satisfaction to their just and reasonable desires, should now desire the King to come to London, which at that time swarmed with Malignants, apt for any tumult, nay the Parliament itself at that time could not sit with safety, without an Army to guard them. On the 23 of November, 1647. both Houses Voted not to have any personal Treaty with his Majesty. Yet after three day's debate in the House, they conclude that four Propositions be drawn up in form of Acts, to be sent to his Majesty to sign, which when he had signed, they would admit a personal Treaty at London. The Propositions were as followeth. 1. That a Bill may be passed into an Act by his Majesty for settling the Militia of the Kingdom. 2. A Bill be passed by his Majesty, calling in all his Declarations, Oaths, Proclamations against the Parliament, and those that have adhered to them. 3. To pass an Act that those Lords who were made after the Great Seal was carried to Oxford, may be made uncapable of sitting in the House of Peers thereby. 4. That power may be given to the two Houses to adjurne, as the two Houses of Parliament shall think fit. On the 30 of November, the King sent a Letter to the General and Army, by Sir John Barkley, desiring their furtherance of a personal treaty, with a promise of Recompense when all should be settled. To which answer was returned, that they had wholly left it to the Parliament, and that they would be passive. The Army sent a large Declaration to both Houses, taxing them with neglect, contrary to promise, and laying forth the wants of the Army, by reason they had not expedited their pay, which must necessitate them to take free quarter, and be burdensome to the subjects, if not by them timely prevented. His Majesty sent another Letter to the Lords, wherein he expresseth himself, that if any thing had been of more concernment than the peace of this Kingdom, he would with patience have expected an answer to his former Letter, but his tender affection to his subjects welfare, hath prevalency with him to press a personal Treaty, and Intimates, that if the Houses please that he come among them, it will no doubt speed a good end. The Lords and Commons according to their former order, Vote the Lord Qenbigh, and the Lord Montague for the Upper House, Mr Lisle, Mr Goodwin, Mr Kemp, and Mr Bulncley, for the Commons, to carry the four Propositions to his Majesty, which if he sign they will admit of a personal Treaty. The Scots Commissioners likewise went to his Majesty, and after some conference with him, declare against the four Bills to this effect; That they had endeavoured by all ways and means with the Parliament of England for the furthering of a happy peace, but having seen the Propositions now brought to his Majesty, they apprehend them to be prejudicial to Religion, the Crown, and the Union betwixt both Kingdoms, and therefore in the name of the Kingdom of Scotland declare their dissent. Colonel Hamond wrote a Letter to the Parliament, that he could not secure his Majesty, unless they would allow him more strength, there being so great a concourse into the Isleland; upon which the Commons order, that his Majesty's person be secured, and more Forces be sent for the security of the Island. The Commissioners returned with a large Message from his Majesty, showing the Grounds and reasons why he cannot pass any thing till the whole Treaty be concluded on, professing he is willing to give any reasonable satisfaction to whatsoever shall be required. He now again earnestly presses for a personal Treaty, of which he will not despair, there being no visible way left for the Kingdom's peace, but by it; However, his Majesty is at peace and quietness within himself, in having fulfilled the offices both of a Christian, and a King, and will patiently wait the good pleasure of Almighty God, to incline the hearts of his two Houses to consider their King, and compassionate their fellow subjects miseries. It's very observable that his Majesty received the Parliaments Commissioners very gratefully, desiring them all to be assistants to him in promoting a well = grounded peace, the expression he said was theirs, but it was a very good one; he told them, there were many Interests to be considered of, Viz. the Parliament, Army, and Scots, he desired all might be considered; but when he was informed of a dissenting Declaration of the Scots, he told them, he was very sorry for it, and he hoped they might agree in the main, though they might differ in circumstances. His Majesty delivered his Message to the Commissioners open, with Injunction to keep it secret till they had delivered it to the Parliament. There happened a tumult at Newport in the Isle of Wight, divers declaring for the King, and one Captain Burleigh caused a drum to be beaten up for the service of his Majesty; the Mayor and others that came to his assistance, fell upon them, dispersed them, took the Captain, who was afterwards executed. This tumult caused the Governor of the Island immediately to discharge all such as had aided and assisted his Majesty in the late War against the Parliament. Monday the third of January, 1657. The Commons tok into consideration his Majesty's Message, and finding the same as it appears to them, not satisfactory, nor that he hath any Inclination to a composure, it was put to the Question, Whether any addresses should be made hereafter; after many hours debate it was Resolved; That 1. No addresses shall hereafter be made to him by the Parliament of England. 2. That none shall on pain of Treason, make any address without leave from the Parliament. 3. That no written Paper, Message, or Declaration, be received from his Majesty on penalty of Treason. They likewise Vote, that Colonel Hamond and Sir William Constable, shall have power to displace any man from his Majesty whom they shall think fit. Immediately they take care for the managing of the affairs of the Kingdom, by completing the Committee of Darby-House, who were to transact the whole business of the Kingdom; they Vote the Earl of Kent in the room of the Earl of Essex who was dead. Mr Nathaniel Fines and Mr John Evelin in the rooms of Sir Philip Stapleton dead, and Mr Glin, who was sequestered the House, Sir William Waller was continued. The Committee being completed were 21 in number, Viz. the Lord of Northumberland, Earl of Kent, Earl of Warwick, Earl of Manchester, Viscount Say and Seal, Lord Wharton, and Lord Roberts; For the Commons, Mr Perepoint, Mr Nathaniel Fines, Sir Henry Vane, signior, Sir Arthur Haslerig, Sir Gilbert Gerard, Sir William Ermine, Sir John Evelin, Sir Henry Vane, junior, Sir William Waller, Mr Crew, Mr Solicitor, St John, Mr Wallop, Mr Samuel Browne, Lieutenant General Cromwell. A General Council of the Army being met at Windsor, they were very Joyful, and unanimously approved of the Votes of the House touching his Majesty, and ordered two Declarations to be drawn up, one to show their good liking of the Houses proceed, with promise to aid and assist them in settling the Kingdom, yea without the King, or against the King; the second, for the maintenance of the Peerage of England, with Resolution to stand by Lords and Commons to the last man. On the 17 of January, the Votes for non-addresses past the Lord's House; They Ordered Colonel Barksteds' Regiment to quarter in White Hall, Colonel Rich his Regiment of Horse to quarter in the Mews. His Majesty having heard of the Resolves of both Houses, continues very cheerful, and is much retired. The Scots Commissioners desire leave to Return. The House of Lords added four of their order to the Committee of Darby-House, Viz. the Earl of Salisbury, the Lord Mograve, Earl of Denbigh, and Lord Howard. The Earl of Pembroke was Voted Chancellor of Oxford. Both Houses Vote that the Committee of Darby-House have plenipotence to order the dispose of the Army Commanded by Sir Thomas Fairfax, as they shall think fit. The Commons considered of Commissioners to go to Scotland, to acquaint the Parliament of Scotland with the miscarriages of their Commissioners here. And Order Mr Goodwin, Mr Ashurst, Mr Brian Stapleton, and Colonel Birch, to receive their Instructions from the Committee of Darby-House. The Lords join the Earl of Nottingham, and the Earl of Stamford to go with them. The second of February, the Commons past an Order, that all the servants lately made by the Commissioners, attending his Majesty, be removed, and that the General Sir Thomas Fairfax place such about his Majesty as he should think fit, provided they exceed not thirty. They likewise ordered a Declaration to be drawn up, to satisfy the Kingdom of the Grounds and Reasons of their passing the Votes for non-addresses. The 21 of February, Judge Jenkins was brought to the Bar of the House, where he refused to kneel; a Charge was read against him, That he had condemned or passed sentence upon men to be hanged, drawn and quartered, for not assisting against the Parliament: That he took up Arms himself, that he stirred up others to levy war and assist against the Parliament, that he accused the Parliament, and charged them with counterfeiting the Great Seal; and bein required to speak what he had to say for himself, he answered, that they had no power to try him, he assured with confidence the Militia was in the King alone; he said Kings did not formerly covenant to maintain the Law, but only to be merciful to the people: He endeavoured to terrify the Parliament with his Majesty's numerous Issue in Geniollogy, he prayed the Laws might be protected, he saith there can be no Laws without a King, and that there is none in Venice nor the United Provinces; for his ill deportment and words, which were indeed a breach of the privilege of the House, he was fined 1000 l. and the House Voted a Charge to be brought in against him. His Majesty at Caresbrooke Castle is very much dejected and discontented at his confinement, and the removal of his old servants; he will not permit his hair nor beard to be meddled withal, but by a Barber of his own choosing, by which means he is grown very hairy. The Scots Commissioners Report to their Parliament, much to the prejudice of the Parliament of England, touching their proceed with the King. The Lords and Commons Concur, that no forces be raised in London, nor ten miles round, but by special warrant from the Committee of Darby-House. The House being Informed that one Colonel Poyer, Governor of Pembroke Castle, had refused to deliver it up, being required thereunto by Letters from the General, Order that if the said Colonel Poyer shall not within twelve hours after notice hereof, surrender the Castle, with all the Arms and Ammunition therein, that then the said Colonel Poyer, and all that shall adhere to him, are hereby declared Traitors, and Rebels; and the General is hereby required to reduce the said Castle, and to bring the said Colonel Poyer and his adherents to Justice, and the General was required to send this Order, that the Colonel might not plead excuse. Colonel Langhurne likewise raised a body of men, and came to the assistance of Colonel Poyer, and had gathered together a considerable body of men near 2000 Horse and foot. They publish a Declaration of their Resolutions to establish his Majesty in his full power and dignity. The General Ordered thirty Companies of Horse and foot to suppress them, under the Command of Colonel Horton. The King though set aside, and confined to the Isle of Wight, was more formidable this Summer then ever he was since the beginning of the late troubles; for the very name of a King was now grown into great credit with the people throughout the Kingdom, and by it not only tumults, but Armies were raised. A mutiny happened at Bury about a Maypole; some discontented persons declare for the King; the House order the General to send some forces, who besieged it, and after some time was delivered up to mercy. Chepstow was likewise surprised for the King. On the 22 of April, the Earl of Northumberland Informed the House of the escape of the Duke of York from St James'; The manner thus; The Earl went, as his custom was, to attend the Duke at eight a clock at night, after some stay the Duke came from his brother's Chamber; when the Earl was gone the Duke went out again, as his manner was, in way of play, to obscure himself, that his Gentlemen might seek him, which accordingly they did, but could not find him, upon search they Inform the Earl, who upon enquiry dilcovers that he had borrowed the Key of the Garden door the day before of the Gardener; as also there was discovery made of his footsteps. The Parliament in Scotland order a Committee for safety, who advise that an Army of 40000 men be forthwith Levied for the preservation of his Majesty and Kingdom of Scotland, notwithstanding divers Lords, Knights and Gentlemen, Members of the Parliament, Remonstrate of their utter dislike of it. Immediately the Parliament of England Order the fortifying of Newcastle and Hull, to prevent the Scots Invasion. The Parliament men being summoned to attend the House, were called over, and found to be near 320 men. A Petition was presented to the Parliament from the City, Requiring the Army's removal from the City, and that the Posts and Chains may be put up for the safety of the City, and that Major General Skippon be appointed Major General for the City, and all the Forces within the late Lines of Communication, with resolutions to adhere to them according to the Covenant. Immediately the Houses approved of Major General Skippon, and ordered him to put the Militia in Execution, and the Posts and Chains to be set up as formerly; They likewise Voted all the Members that had not taken the Covenant to take it. On the 28 of April, the Commons proceeded in settling the Kingdom, and Voted that they would endeavour to continue the Government by King, Lords and Commons, and that they might have Liberty to debate such Votes as had past concerning the King; they likewise Voted that the Propositions presented to his Majesty at Hampton Court, were subject matter for a settlement. The second of May, the General sent a Letter to the Parliament, approving of the City's choice in Electing Major General Skippon, Major General for the City; and finding the City desirous of the Army's removal from them, had sent an order for Colonel Barksted to draw his Regiment out of White Hall, and Colonel Rich to draw off his Regiment from the Mews. He likewise desired them that they would provide a Guard for themselves. The Common Council of the City Order 600 l. per Annum for their Major General, and a Guard for the Parliament, that so the Army might draw off. A considerable party of Scots and English surprised Barwick; The manner thus; The party that came was much about an hundred, with swords drawn, and pistols Cocked, entered the Town on the South side, as soon as they had past the bridge, they drew it up, seize on the Mayor, and all other eminent persons. Drums were likewise beaten up in Colchester, and several Towns in Suffolk, for the service of his Majesty. On the third of May, Letters were brought by Colonel Martial to both Houses from the Parliament of Scotland, giving them to understand their results concerning England; and withal, that he had but fifteen day's time allotted him to stay for an Answer. The Heads of the Scots Declaration were these, That his Majesty may come to London, or some of his Houses near, and that with safety; That Reparation be made for his carrying away, or satisfaction, by punishing them that did it; That the Army under the Lord Fairfax be disbanded; That Presbytery be settled, Sectaries punished; That all Members of the House be restored. The same day the Commons Consulted whether they should in the settlement of the Kingdom, take in the Scots or not, or whether to make addresses to his Majesty again or not. May the fourth, came above a thousand Petitioners on Horseback, and near as many more on foot, out of Essex, to Petition the Parliament for a personal Treaty with the King, and to expedite a course for the satisfaction of the Army, and their disbanding. The Lords return Answer, that they will seriously consider of their Petition; and the Commons take notice of their good affection to the Parliament, desiring them to return, and to satisfy their Country. May the fift, The Commons agreed, first, that they will keep their Covenant and Treaty with the Kingdom of Scotland. Secondly, That they will be ready to Join with the Kingdom of Scotland, upon the Propositions agreed to be sent to his Majesty at Hampton Court. And that a Letter should be sent to the Parliament of Scotland about the surprise of Barwick, by some that were enemies to both Kingdoms. They likewise ordered the seven Northern counties be put into a posture of defence, and that the Committee of Darby-House take care to pay them. At a Council of War at Windsor, it was ordered, that Lieutenant General Cromwell go to Wales to suppress Poyer and Langhorne, others for the security of the North with what strength they could. Colonel Horton sent a Letter of the defeat of the Welsh Army, consisting of 8000 foot and 400 Horse, who being terrified with the news of Lieutenant General Cromwell's coming, Resolved to fight Horton, which he nothing more desired; they fell upon him, but he soon Routed them, took 1500 Officers, 3000 Common Soldiers; for which a day of thanksgiving is appointed. On the 16 of May, divers hundreds came out of Surrey with a Petition, much in the same nature with that of Essex; some bickering happened betwixt the Countrymen and Soldiers, in so much that from words they came to blows, and some of the Coutrymen were killed. The Scots go on amain to raise their Army, Duke Hamilton, a selfish unfortunate man is made General (General Lesley is contented with a pension, and willing to be quiet) The Earl of calendar Lieutenant General. Their Levies go on amain, they have ordered forty days pay at their General Rendezvous. In the mean time, Sir Marmaduke Langdale with a small body of Horse goes on the Scotch side of Tweed to Carlisle, to raise men, in expectation to join with Sir Philip Musgrave his forces in Cumberland and Westmoreland, who being well respected, the Country flocked to him amain. And now the King's party began to swell big with expectation, not looking upon themselves as vanquished, but rather Conquerors. The Southern part of the Kingdom was not free from Insurrections, for news was brought to the Parliament, that 600 disaffected persons had seized and secured Rochester, possessed themselves of the City, planted Ordnance on the bridge, and compelled all that came, to sign their Petition, and increased to the number of 10000 The City of London was likewise backward in raising a Guard for the Parliament, to relieve the two Regiments, which the General than wanted. In Cornwall likewise were insurrections, and divers disaffected were landed; Sir Hardresse Waller sent a party of Horse and foot to subdue them. The Commons Vote, that if his Majesty will grant the Militia, settle Religion, and Recall all Proclamations and Declarations, they will Treat with him. Divers forces ordered Northward, were called back to suppress the Kentish Insurrection. Chepstow Castle was retaken by Colonel Ewer. Sir Thomas Glenham had seized on Carlisle for the King, and Sir Marmaduke Langdale was come as far as Appleby with a formidable Army. Major General Lambert marched up and down, to prevent him from Injuring the Country. The General musters his Army at Hounslow heath, he sends a party round by Sussex to relieve Dover Castle, then besieged by the Kentish men. He with the rest marched into Kent, several small skirmishes happened betwixt both parties, he comes to Maidstone, which he found to be stoutly man'd, well provided with Ordinance and barricadoed, and the Enemy drawn up into a body; it was thought unconvenient to engage the body, and leave the Town unattempted, in which were the most resolute persons. A party of old Soldiers were drawn out to face the Town, whilst the body was drawn up, ready to receive the Enemy. The old Soldiers assaulted the Town by seven at night, where they met with men of like Resolution, there being the stoutest men of the Enemy's Army, Apprentices and Seamen, and such as had been in Arms for the King. The fight continued for six hours, they valiantly disputed in every street; at last the Town is taken, with the loss of sixty men; in it were taken 1300 prisoners, divers of quality, 400 Horse, eight pieces of Ordinance, with good store of booty. The General shown personal Valour by Charging in his slippers. Many of the Kentish forces march over Rotchester bridge toward London, where on Black heath they muster a considerable Army, whither many apprentices and resolute persons repair, under the Command of old Goring. The Essex men had by this time secured the Committee men, and sent to require an answer to their Petition, to which the Parliament speedily send an answer. The Seamen likewise Revolt, and refuse to receive the Earl of Warwick, but upon their own terms; they likewise sent Vice-admiral Rainsborough on shore, and unanimously declare for the King. Whilst the Earl of Warwick shows his affection for the Parliament, his brother the Earl of Holland unfortunately riseth in arms with the Duke of Buckingham, and the Lord Francis, who with 500 Horse at Kingston, take the advantage of the Armies dividing. But by the care and industry of Sir Miles Livesey, who fell on them, they were put to flight; The Lord Francis refusing quarter, was killed; Major Dalbere, and divers others were killed: the Earl of Holland fled to St Needs, where he was totally subdued, and taken by Colonel Scroop, and immediately sent prisoner to Warwick Castle. While the Essex men were requiring an act of Indemnity, Sir Charles Lucas was come to Chensford with a party of 2000 Horse and foot, Colonel Whaly was ordered to go against them. Those with Goring being denied a passage over London bridge, come over on Essex side, secure Bow bridge with a small party, whilst the rest march further into the County. Sir John Owen in North-Wales endeavours to raise forces for the King, which the Sheriff of a County Endeavoured to impede, but being too weak was taken prisoner, and his party suppressed; a second time, several parties well affected to the Parliament join together, and with contrary success to the former, fell upon Sir John Owen, took him prisoner, and totally dispersed his forces. Pomfret castle is likewise surprised by one Morris. The General spared what forces he could over into Essex, with the assistance of the well affected of the County, who pursued the Enemy till they came to Colehester, which Town they closely begirt, but divers times sallies were made out to fetch in provisions. The Lieutenant General having lain long before Pembroke Castle, and hearing of the Scots on their March for England, and the Report of the Prince & Duke of York being at Sea, thought fit to give Conditions to Poyer and Langhorne, for the delivering up of the Town and Castle, that thereby he might have Liberty to advance Northwards, which Conditions were accepted. And to say truth, as things than stood, it was of a considerable value, as to the service of the Parliament. On the 13 of July marquis Hamilton entered England with an Army of 9000 Horse and foot, the Generality of the people of Scotland were wholly averse to it, the Ministers every where exclaiming against the Duke. The Duke immediately sent a Letter to Lieutenant General Lambert of the Grounds and Motives of their coming into England, which the Lieutenant General as speedily answered. The Parliament immediately Vote, that those Scots that enter England in a Hostile way with authority of Parliament, are enemies to the Kingdom of England, and shall be proceeded against as such. July the 17. the Commons debate to what place his Majesty shall come, and concluded the King name three places, two whereof within twenty miles of London, and one within ten, and the Parliament to make choice of one of the three. Mr Ashurst comes from Scotland with a Declaration of the Council of Estate, in which they declare that they were Invited in; upon which the Parliament Vote all those hat Invited them in, to be traitors. On the 18 of July, the Commons considered of a personal treaty with his Majesty, and having duly weighed all the Inconveniences that might arise by his Majesty's coming to London, and duly considered all the objections against his Majesty's granting the three Propositions before the Treaty, they resolved that the Treaty should be in the Isle of Wight, and that it be with Honour, freedom and safety; they appointed a Committee to consider of time, manner, and place. July 30 they Vote to send to his Majesty to nominate a place in the Island to trat in; two of the Commons were ordered to go to his Majesty to that purpose. They likewise order the Earl of Warwick to fight with the Revolted ships, notwithstanding their specious Declaration. Information was brought to the Parliament that Colonel Bourton Governor of Scarborough Castle had declared for the King. Major Huntingdon left the Army, having taken distaste at the proceed of some Grandees. The Prince from aboard in the Downs, sent a Letter to the Speaker of the House of Peers, relating to a Treaty with his Majesty, and divers other particulars, which was laid aside. On the same day a Petition was presented from the Court of Aldermen and Common Council of the City of London, for a personal Treaty, his Majesty to be freed of his restraint, Church Government to be settled, according to the Covenant, all Acts of Hostility to seize, to which the Commons promised a speedy and satisfactory answer. Lieutenant General Cromwell being joined with Lambert, their force is 5000 Horse and Dragoones, and 7000 foot, he sent a Letter to the House, giving them an account of his proceed, with a return of thanks for their care in providing for his Army. Tinmouth Castle Revolted, but was suddenly retaken. The Lieutenant General immediately marches to Pomsret, assaulted the Town with much Resolution, killed thirty, and took an hundred prisoners. The Lorch of Middlesex returned from his Malesty with his answer, which was to this effect, That if the peace of his Dominions were not dearer to him then any Inlerest, he had too much reason to take notice of several Votes that past against him, with his sad condition seven months together; and sets down what soever he conceives is necessary to so blessed a work, professing he can no more treat in this condition, than a blind man judge of colours, or that he can run a race whose foot is tied, and therefore desires the recalling of those Votes, that bar mean from coming to him, and that all that he shall send for, for necessary use, may have leave to come unto him, and wait on him in this treaty, the place Newport, and that he may be in the same condition that he was in at Hampton Court, conceiving he cannot treat in honour so long as men are afraid to come to him; for safety he mentions not, as not fearing his person in danger, requiring the assistance of the Scots, and that he hath fully accepted of the treaty proposed, and gives it all the furtherance that lies in him, by demanding the necessary means of effecting, not doubting of the Parliaments ready compliance. He conjures them is Christians, and good Patricts, that they will make all possible expedition, by hasting down their Commissioners, praying the God of peace to bless all endeavours, that all his Dominions may enjoy a safe and happy peace. A design was laid for the betraying of Stafford for the King, but by the Industry of Captain Stone it was prevented. The Commons upon the City Petition Order a Bill to be brought in, that Major General Skippon lift no more, but by special Order of the House. The Earl of Pembroke was made Constable of Windsor-Castle, in the room of the Earl of Holland. The Lords communicate to the Commons their Votes touching the King's Letter, which were to this purpose, That the four Votes of non-addresses formerly made by both Houses be null. And 1. That his Majesty may have all such to come to him as are necessary for the carrying on of the Treaty on his part. 2. That he have such servants as are needful to attend his person. 3. That the Treaty be at Newport. 4. That his Majesty may also invite the Scots to the Treaty, to treat on the Propositions at Hampton Court, wherein they concurred. 5. That the number of Lords to treat be five, and the Commons to appoint ten. 6. That his Majesty may have as much Liberty as at Hampton Court. Lastly, That all possible expedition may be made therein; this being apprehended to be the most necessary for the settling of a peace. Tinmouth Castle at that time Revolted, and retaken; the manner thus; The Governor being absent, the Deputy-Governour sends all the old Soldiers abroad in parties, he suddenly declares for the King, Arms all the prisoners, Invites Seamen, and other discontented persons to his assistance; one making an escape over the walls, Informs Sir Arthur Haslerig of it, who immediately sent a party under the Command of Colonel Alhfeild, also 100 Dragoones, who with what Ladders could be got, scaled the wall, Major Cobbet led on the forlorn, after a very hot Encounter entered the Castle, put all in arms to the sword; The Deputy-Governour was found dead. The Prince having lain long in the Downs, and effected nothing, resolves upon Laud service, to which purpose they land eight hundred on the Kentish shore, divers of which were Resormades, and persons of quality; Colonel Hewson being ordered for the security of the Kentish forces, draws together what force he could, which were betwixt three and four hundred, who together with the assistance of Major Husbands with 100 Horse, fell upon them, killed many, totally dispersed them, took divers prisoners. In Herefordshire 200 Horse were got together, Commanded by Sir Henry Lingen for the King, who suddenly surprised the County troop and destroyed them. The Commons fell into debate of the Heads of the King's Letter concerning a treaty, they agreed to all, excepting their calling the Scots to their assistance, who had broke the peace, and entered England in an hostile manner, secured the towns of Barwick and Carlisle, but after a long debate, they assented, that the King should Invite any of the Kingdom of Scotland to come and treat in the behalf of that Kingdom, and that they should have safe conduct. They likewise ordered Instructions for Colonel Hamond, and order that he so deport himself, as that the King may be in the same condition as at Hampton Court, viz. with freedom, Honour and safety. The Lieutenant General and Lambert being Joined, the whole Army was concluded to be 12000 fight men. The Army march of Gisburne, where there was a skirmish betwixt Major Righy and some part of the Enemy: The next day the Army marched to Stonyhurst, a great house in the way to Preston, a party was drawn out commanded by Major , who fell on the Enemy's outguards, and took the Earl of Connought, a Scotchman, and six others prisoners. The next morning early the Army marched to Preston, where the whole Army of the Enemy both English and Scotch lay, which by computation could be little less than 24000 fight men; a forlorn was commanded out by Major Smithson, consisting of 500 foot, 200 Horse, and two Troops of Dragoones, who charged furiously upon the Enemy, pursuing them from lanes and Villages with great resolution, which so alarmed the whole Army, and caused them to draw up upon a More, two mile's East of Preston; out forlorn notwithstanding the deepness of the ways, behaved themselves with much Gallantry, who after they had cleared the lanes, our foot drew up; the Van consisted of Colonel Bright, The Lord General, and the Lancashire Regiments; The Rear of Colonel overton's, Deane, and Pride's Regiments; The Battle of a sudden was very hot, and there was a fierce dispute for two hours; the enemy having lined the hedges, did much mischief both to Horse and foot, but by the Courage of our men, they quickly cleared the Hedges, and forced them to retire: The enemy still gave ground, and we still pursuing from hedge to hedge; our Horse pursue them through Preston Town: the enemy's Army divides and retreats two several ways. A body of 3000 Horse move toward Lancnster, the rest of their Horse and foot retreat over the river Ribble; our men follow, and pursue them several ways; Colonel Twissleton and Colonel Thornelow pursue them Northward, overtook, Rout, scatter, and took multitudes prisoners. But the main of our Army followed that part that went Southward, there was a very hot dispute over Ribble birdge, which they Gallantly defended for two hours, at length a body of our Pikes runs furiously upon their Muskets, and forced them to retire; we killed and took many of them, but night approaching hindered the pursuit. The next morning the Enemies whole body was drawn up upon a hill on the side of Preston, our men fall on with courage, and forced them to retire in disorder; we killed and took many, and that night they fled to Wiggon, which they plunderd. The next morning the Enemy came within two miles of Warington, where they drew up in a very strong field, which had high banks like fortifications; where O swold King of the Northumber's was formerly slain. We fell upon them, though with very great disadvantage, our Horse Charge Resolutely; The dispute was long and sharp, until such time as the foot could come up to engage, which no sooner came but they retire, and we pursued them to Warington bridge; there was killed of the Enemy above a thousand, and above two thousand taken prisoners, the rest fled over Warington bridge, where the foot were left by the Horse, who fled; upon our advance they sent a parley, and above 4000 well accoutred men with the Lieutenant General laid down their Arms, and submitted to mercy. Those that went with Duke Hamilton, move up and down in Cheshire; the Country people in Arms on their own defence, seize on divers stragglers, many expecting no good, leave him, at last he moves toward Staffordshire. Several parties of Horse were sent after them, one meets with Middleton, who commanded 400 Horse, falls on him, dispersed his company, and took him prisoner. Sir Marmaduke Langdale is appareheded in an Inn. The Duke sent to the Lord Grace for a Cessation, and to render himself prisoner to him, which accordingly he did; Immediately Commissioners are appointed by the Parliament to examine him. Colonel George Monroe being newly come into England with a considerable body for a reserve, understanding the total defeat of Hamilton, returns back into Scotland: and not long after came the marquis of Argile, Lord Louden, Leaven, and other of the Nobility to Lieutenant General Cromwell, to manifest their utter dislike of hamilton's coming with an Army, and Monroes' endeavours to Levy Forces for the prosecution of the War, and to desire his assistance against him: To which the Lieutenant General returned answer of his wiilingnesse to assist them, and to join with them to subdue Monro, and that he did really believe, that God gave the Duke's Army into the hands of those under his Command, to make way for the relief of the faithful in Scotland; he forthwith communicates it to the House, who accordingly Vote that they approve of his Entering Scotland, for the assistance of those that endeavoured to oppose Hamiltons' Levies. The Parliament Orders so many of the Scots prisoners, being in all 15000 that were forced away, be sent home in regard of the dearness of provissions; The rest to be sent to several parts abroad. The King from Caresbrooke, August 28. 1648. sent a Letter to the Speakers of both Houses; thus; My Lord, and Mr Speaker, I have received your Letter of the 25 of this month, with the Votes that you sent me, and though they are not so full as I could have wished to the perfecting of a Treaty, yet because I conceive by what you have: done, that I am in some measure fit to begin on (such is my uncessant and earnest desire to give a peace to these my now distressed Kingdoms, as I now accept the Treaty) & therefore desire that such five Lords and ten Commons, as my two Houses shall appoint, be speedily sent, fully Anthorized and Instructed to treat with me, not doubting but what is now wanting, will at our meeting upon debate be fully supplied, not only to the furtherance of this Treaty, but also to the Consummating of a safe and well-grounded peace. So I rest your good Friend, Charles R. Indorsed For the Earl of Manchester, Speaker of the House of Peers pro tempore, and William Lenthall. He likewise Enclosed the Names of those persons which he desired might attend him, most whereof were Granted him. The Town of Colchester having held out the longest siege of any Town in England since the first beginning of the troubles, in Expectation of Relief from the North; but the Scots Colours being brought before the Town, totally disappointed them of their Expectation, and being by famine the sorest of Calamities, compelled to deliver the Town up to mercy (they having said near ten days together on Hors-flesh) The Great ones endeavouring to escape were turned back by their own men. The Town was delivered up on these Conditions. The General permitting the Common Soldiers to departed with life, and the Officers to remain at his disposal, he to exempt from mercy whom he pleased, the remainder to be remitted to the mercy of the Parliament. The Town to Raise 14000 l. to preserve it from plunder. And accordingly August 27. they marched out on the Conditions above expressed. The miseries of the Town were great, there being hardly so much as Hors-bread lest to have preserved them alive one day. On the 28 of August at a Council of War, it was resolved that Sir Charles Lucas, Sir George Lisle, and Sir Barnard Jaskin, a Papist, be shot to death. And accordingly Sir Charles Lucas was brought out into the Castle yard, where he insisted upon an appeal, but being denied, he took Courage, and looking death in the face with an undaunted resolution, submitted himself. Sir George Lisle was next brought forth, who Kissed Sir Charles being dead, and after private prayer desir d a speedy death, more desperate than many of the ancient Romans on Record. It's Credibly reported by Eye-witnesses, that upon the very place where they were executed, there groweth no grass, notwithstanding all the ground thereabout is very fertile. Sir Barnard Jaskin was reprieved. The General sent immediately a Letter to the Commons, giving them an account of the whole proceed as to Colchester; as likewise certified the names of those Officers prisoners, which were near two hundred, and to know their pleasure; withal Telling them that to satisfy the Soldiery, and to take vengeance, he had caused to be shot to death Sir Charles Lucas, and Sir George Lisle; the first having contrary to promise falsified his word with him; the second, directed the shooting of poisoned bullets, both being against the Law of Arms. August the 31. the Commons took into Consideration the King's Letter, and those persons that he had nominated; And by reason that some of them were exempted persons, others prisoners, or under bail, they were not all allowed. The rest that his Majesty had named had freedom to go. The next day the Lords and Commons nominated their Commissioners to treat with his Majesty, viz. The Earl of Northumberland, the Earl of Pembroke, Lord of Salisbury, Lord of Middlesex, Lord Say and Seal: for the Commons, Mr Hollis, the Lord Wainman, Mr Perepoint, Sir Harbottle Grinastone, Sir Henry Vane, Junior, Sir John Corbet, Mr Crew, Mr Samuel Browne, Mr Glin, and Mr Bulkley. The Commons order a Letter to be sent to his Majesty, with the names of the Commissioners, withal letting him know how far they had proceeded in the Treaty. They further considered of Instructions for the Treaty, and require money of the City to defray the Charge. The Prince Riding in the Downs with the Revolted ships, sent a summons to the Earl of Warwick, to tender and submit himself to the King's Majesty, for the better security and settlement of the Kingdom. The Lord Admiral returns answer, that God-willing he will perform the trust reposed in him; and for settling the Kingdom, he leaves that to the Parliament. September 11. a Petition was presented to the Commons, entitled, The humble Petition of thousands well affected in the City of London, giving divers Reasons why they assisted them in the war with their lives and fortunes, giving them to understand that they expected other means for a settlement, than a personal Treaty; as likewise taking particular notice of the several wants and necessities of the Nation, concluding that they had laid to heart the blood and loss of the people, and wished them seriously to consider, whether an act of oblivion will satisfy God's Justice, and appease his wrath. Which Petition was laid aside. Money being provided, on the 14 of September the Commissioners set forward for the Isle of Wight, forty days was the time limited; his Majesty desired that the first day, on which nothing was performed but visits, might not be reckoned for one of the forty. The next day the Personal Treaty began, and it may very well be called Personal, for was it ever known that a King of England argued and disputed alone with able men selected out of the Parliament, they personally to argue pro and con with a King? His Majesty being seated in a Chair of State, those his assistants by him were silent. His Majesty desired a Copy of the Heads that they came to treat upon, the Commissioners answered, they were the same with those at Hampton Court. His Majesty replied, some of those Heads concerned Scotland; the Commissioners said they came to treat only of those that concerned England and Ireland. The King desired the Scots might be Included; to which the Commissioners answered, they had no Instructions to permit it; his Majesty further desired that what papers he might put in during the Treaty, might be no way obliging till such time as all was agreed. The Commissioners Insisted on the first Article, which was, that his Majesty should recall all his Declarations; to which he brought many pressing arguments, professing he was in a very great strait, to yield would leave a blot and stain upon himself and those that assisted him, and to break off the Treaty upon that, would be very prejudicial to him, and the whole Kingdom, desiring some expedient might be found out. The next day the Commissioners gave weighty reasons to his Majesty, which moved him to sign it with this proviso, that if the whole was not concluded, this concession of his should not be taken advantage of. The second Proposition wholly related to the settlement of the Church, which being very long took some time; In it he scrupled at two things, first at his own taking the Covenant; the second against pluralities, much wondering that this should be put on him, when the Parliament had granted more pluralities to some men, than ever he did to any: after much serious consideration, the King gave in a Paper, wherein he agreed; First, to settle the Directory; secondly, to pass an Act to confirm the Assembly; thirdly, that Presbyterian Government be settled for three years, in the Interim, a consultation be had what Government shall be settled at the expiration of the three years, provided he and his party may have Liberty to use the old form; he liked not the sale of Bishop's Lands for ninety nine years, and utterly refused to take the Covenant; Further, adding that when he came to London he should be willing to pass any thing that his two Houses should advise to. As to the Proposition for taking away all Honours since 1642. his Majesty is consenting that all persons on whom Honours have been conferred since May 21. 1642. shall be uncapable of sitting in the House without the consent of both Houses of Parliament. Concerning Delinquents his Majesty consents that all persons that have had any hand in the plotting contrary designs, or assisting the Rebellion of Ireland, shall expect no pardon. For Delinquents his Majesty desires they may compound moderately for their Estates; and further, for the quiet and settlement of the Kingdom, his Majesty is willing that all those Delinquents whom the Parliament shall not think fit, be not admitted to Council or Court without the consent of both Houses. The Commissioners being bound up to receive a positive answer, durst not accept of that. Divers meetings and arguings were on both sides, for and against; at last on the 21 of October, the King put in a Paper containing the Heads of those things that he required, which were: 1. That he be put in a condition of freedom, Honour and safety, and have the faith of the two Houses therefore. 2. That he may be restored to his Lands and Revenues. 3. That he may have compensation for the Court of Wards, and such other of his revenue as he shall part withal. 4. An Act of Oblivion and Indemnity be past. Which Propositions the Commissioners communicate to the Lords, who upon debate find them to be so reasonable, as to consent to them all; They likewise Inform the House of his Majesty's answer to Religion, and the Covenant, which the House Vote not satisfactory, and will by no means permit him the use of the Common prayer, but for the Covenant they are content to suspend it, but order the Commissioners to proceed on the rest. The Lord's Vote that they approve of his Majesty; suspension of Episcopacy for three years, provided it take no place afterward but by consent of Parliament. The Lords and Commons Vote their Commissioners return from the Treaty, excepting the Earl of Northumberland, Mr Perepoint, and Mr Hollis. The Commons debated of his Majesty's Propositions, and Vote that they agree. 1. That he be in Honour, freedom and safety, according to the Laws. 2. That he have his revenue as before, excepting the Dedications of such Forts and Garrisons, as were of old accustomed to be allowed maintenance. 3. That he have compensation for the Court of Wards. 4. That an Act of Oblivion be past. All which they communicate to the Lords. The King having Granted the Parliament to dispose of all Great Offices for ten years, they Vote it satisfactory. Lieutenant General Cromwell enters Scotland, and puts out strict Proclamation for the Civil deportment of his Army; He no sooner enters the Kingdom, but Monroe and others despairing of success, disband the new Levies, and return melancholy to Edinburgh. The Lieutenant General was with many of the Officers of the Army Nobly feasted by the Nobility and Gentry of that Nation at Edinburgh. The Scots send Commissioners to London, to the Parliament, to show their Just dislike of the late Levies. On the 9th of October, he had Carlisle delivered up to him, who immediately appointed Sir Arthur Haslerig to be Governor. Endeavours were made for the betraying of Pendennis Castle, but it was timely prevented. Lanerick the Governor of Barwick sent, desiring Conditions for the delivering of the Town, which was accordingly consented to. The Lieutenant General with the Army return out of Scotland, not without much thanks from the Generality of the Nobility. The Committee of York Petition the Lieutenant General to take care of the siege of Pomfret, who accordingly sent a sharp summons to the Governor, to which the Governor sent a Reply, which in effect was a denial. Major General Skippon Reports to the House the great danger they were in, by reason of the great concourse of Malignants and disaffected persons into the City, together with the plots tending to assassinate many of the Members, and of his Inability to assist them without a Guard, requiring if they think it convenient, that some of the Army come to Guard them, upon which the House appointed a time to consider of it. The Complaint of the Country every where was very Great, by reason of free quarter, which the Officers of the Army upon serious Inspection, discover a design to stop their pay, to make them more odious to the people. At a Council of War held at the Bull in St Albans, where were present sixteen Colonels, besides other Officers, a Declaration was read of all their Grivances, and desires, containing 26 sheets of Paper, which was ordered to be presented to the House Nemine contradicente. The Commons order the drawing of several Acts to be signed by his Majesty. As, 1. An Act for Justifying the War made by Parliament. 2. An Act for Nulling all Honours, since the carrying away of the Great Seal. 3. An Act for explanation, and preventing future Interpretations of the Statute 25 Ed. the 3d, and all other Acts of Treason, and that of the 11 of Henry the 7th, concerning the subjects aiding the King in his Wars, for the better securing the Kingdom's peace, and subjects lives and estates, which being sent to the Commissioners, together with the Votes of the House concerning the Bishops & their Lands, were by them presented to his Majesty, who seemed very much dissatisfied. The Commissioners again press upon the King, to which he replies, that he had given his answer already, and could not with a safe conscience consent to the abolishing of Bishops, nor approve of the alienating of their Lands, because he is persuaded the first is Apostolical, the second sacrilegious. He further told them, that if his two Houses will not recede from their former Votes, and content themselves satisfied in order to peace, He can be content with Christ to suffer any thing that can befall him, rather than deprive himself of the tranquillity of Conscience, still hoping that the Parliament will consent. To which the Commissioners answer that the Parliament conceive it necessary that his Majesty grant their request for the peace and welfare of the Kingdom, assuring that it is not the Apostolical Bishop which they require, but the Bishop established by Law, grown up to that height of pride and state, Insulting over all power, and burdensome to the persons and estates of the subjects. And for alienating Bishops Lands, they answer, they were settled by Law, and by Law may be alienated, and that it was an ordinary practice of his Majesty's Predecessors in the Case of Abbey Lands. On the 26 of November, was presented a Declaration of the Army to the Commons House, which was the day before subscribed by the General, it contained 26 sheets of paper, showing the misgoing of King & Parliament severally, also in all Treaties betwixt them, especially that they are now in: They conceive the Parliament hath abundant cause to lay aside any further proceed in this Treaty, and to return to their Votes of non-addresses, and settle with or against the King, that he was Govern no more, by rejecting those demands of the King, especially concerning his restitution, and coming to London with freedom, Honour and safety, and that they proceed against the King in way of Justice, and that a peremptory day be set for the Prince of Wales, and Duke of York to come in, if not, to be declared uncapable of any Government, and stand Exiled for ever as traitors. The Governor of the Isle of Wight sends a Letter to the Lords, that he may be discharged of his Employment, which they would by no means consent to, but ordered him to continue his Employment. The General Orders Colonel evers Governor of the Island, and sent for Colonel Hamond to the head quarters at Windsor; whither being come, He was for some time detained. The General sent a Letter to both Houses, of the Grounds and reasons of his advance with his Army toward the City, in pursuance of their former Declaration. And on the second of December, accordingly the General and Army enter the Lines of Communication; The General quartered at White Hall, with a Regiment of foot, the Horse and the rest of the Army quarter in the Mews, St James', York House, and divers other places about the City. The King from Newport was by the new Governor conveyed to Hurst Castle, a very noisome and unwholesome place, where during his restraint he composed his book, entitled, The portraiture of his sacred Majesty in his solitude and sufferings, a Royal Monument which he left to posterity. The House sat all day and night till eight of the Clock next morning; many Speeches were made by divers Members of the King's Concessions, among the rest Mr Prin made a long Speech, proving the King's Concessions to be a Ground for a settled peace, which was afterwards Voted in the House, 129 being for it, and 84 against it. Wednesday December the sixth, some part of the Army having a List of those Members that were to be taken into custody, according they did it, not permitting them to enter the House, the number seized was thirty-four, two whereof, viz. Sir Benjamine Ruddier and Mr Nathaniel Fines, were by the General discharged, the rest were carried to the King's head in the Strand, and divers other places of Westminster, having Guards upon them. Presently after was published the Reasons why the Army had secluded divers Members which were; First, That very many had turned Malignants, and had brought such into the House, and kept them in, notwithstanding Votes to the contrary; secondly, They endeavouring to bring the King in upon his own terms; thirdly, Their protecting the 11 Members from Justice; fourthly, Their abetting and partaking with the City's violence on the House, and tumults; fifthly, Encouraging the City and others to Petition for a personal Treaty; sixthly, Encouraging the late Insurrections, and calling in the 11 Members. The remaining Members continue sitting; on the seventh of December, Lieutenant General Cromwell came to the House, and had their thanks for his faithful service both in England and Scotland. The same day the Lords Voted his Majesty's Concessions a Ground for peace, and forthwith adjourn. Several Regiments of Horse and foot were quartered in Black Friars, St Paul's Church, and all the Houses adjacent. On the ninth of December, a Petition was presented to the Council of War at White Hall, by the Officers and Soldiers of divers Regiments, That the Grand and Capital Enemies of the Commonwealth may be speedily brought to Justice. The Committee fitting in White Hall, order a Representative of 400 persons to be chosen throughout the Nation, for the settlement of the Kingdom. December 13. the Remaining part of the Commons House Nuld and Vote for his Majesty's Concessions, and order the General to take care of the King. The Council of War were ordered to sit to draw up a Charge against the King, and accordingly orders were Issued out for his removal. December the 10th, his Majesty came from Hurst Castle, dined at a Ladies, and that night came on Horseback to Winchester, where he lay all night; The next night to Farnham, attended by Colonel Harison, and a Guard of 2000 Horse; the next day he came to Windsor, and was delivered up to the Governor, who had Instructions not to permit him to be spoken with, nor visited by any, but by special order from Parliament or General. Divers of the secluded Members were discharged by the General. on the 23 of December, The Commons order a Charge to be drawn up against the Capital offenders of the Kingdom, and amongst the rest the King was named. Decem. 28 an Ordinance was brought into the House nominating divers persons to try the King, which being tendered to the Lords was refused. Major Pitcher an Active stout man for the King, having his life Granted on promise to go out of the Land, was apprehended and shot to death in St Paul's Churchyard. The Commons seeing the Lords averse proceed themselves, and agreed to the Commission brought in for Trial of the King, and order the Commissioners to meet on Monday in the painted Chamber, to consider of manner, time, and place. January the9th, the Lords Vote that the King could not commit Treason against the Commonwealth, and order a Declaration to be drawn up of the Grounds and reasons of their rejecting the Commission for trial of the King; and another, That no Act of the Commons is binding, without the consent of the Lords. The Queen sent a Letter to both Houses, craving leave to come over to visit her husband, but it would not be Granted. The Ministers of London (though now too late) came to the General at White Hall, to declare their dislike of the proceed, which begat a High contest. The Commons Adjourn part of Hillary Term in order to the King's Trial. Some Judges for dissenting from the King's Trial are displaced. Jan. 17. The Commissioners for Trial of the King meet in the painted Chamber, and debated whether they should have in Court the Mace and Sword, and accordingly it was Resolved to have both Mace and Sword; the Sword alone being too terrible. The Commons upon the King's request Order Dr Juxson, Bishop of London, to attend him as Chaplain. Proclamation was made in Westminster Hall, and the Old Exchange, for witnesses to come in against the King. Friday the 19 of January, the King was brought from Windsor Castle, and was met by a Regiment of Horse four miles from London, and that night lodged at St James'. The King's Bench-Bar and Chancery were appointed for the Commissioners to sit in, which were Railed and Scaffolded; in the midst was placed a Crimson Velvet Chair for the Precedent, with a Desk before him, on which lay a Crimson Velvet Cushon; The Seats all Covered with Red; Beneath was a Table with a Turkey Carpet for the Carks. On saturday the 20 of January, the King was brought with a strong. Guard of foot through St James' Park to White Hall, and from thence was conveyed by water to Sir Robert Cottons House, with a Guard of twenty Partesons. The Precedent Sargeant Bradshaw, with his Train held up, before whom was Carried the Sword by Colonel Humphrys, and the Mace by Sergeant Dandy; after whom came seventy Commissioners; the Council was Mr Ask, a Lawyer of the Inner Temple, Dr Daureslaus a Civilian, and Mr Cook of Gray's Inn was Solicitor general for the business. The Court being sat, the Commission by which they sat was Read, together with the Commissioners names. The Precedent commanded the Sergeant at Arms to fetch in the Prisoner, who immediately brought the King (attended by a Guard of Partezons) and placed him in a Chair; He was no sooner sat, but with a stern Countenance he viewed the Court, Looked up toward the Galleries, and rising from his Chair, turned himself to behold the vast multitudes of Soldiers and others that were in the Hall. It was further observable, that at his Majesty's first coming into the Court, the top of his staff fell off, which none stooping for he took up himself. Silence being Commanded, the Lord Precedent told the King they were assembled by the Authority of the Commons of England, to proceed to the Trial of Charles Stuart King of England, who had betrayed the trust reposed in him by the people, and Commanded the Charge to be read in Open Court, which was to this effect: That the said Charles Stuart being admitted King of England, and Entrusted with a Limited power to Govern according to the Laws, for the good and benefit of the people, and preserving their Rights and Liberties, yet nevertheless, out of a wicked design to uphold himself by a Tyrannical power according to his will, thereby to overthrow the Rights and Liberties of the people, yea thereby to make void the foundation thereof; he the said Charles Stuart for accomplishing such wicked designs, and for the protecting himself and his adherents in his and their wicked practices, hath traitorously and maliciously Levied war against the present Parliament, and the people therein represented. Particularly upon or about the 13 day of June 1642 at Beverly in the County of York, and at or upon the 13 day of July in the year aforesaid in the County and City of York, and upon the 24 of August in the same year at the County of the Town of Nottingham (when and where he set up his Standard of War) and on about the 23 of October in the same year at Edg-hill and Keinton field, and upon or about at 13 day of November in the same year at Branford in the County of Middlesex; and at or upon the 13 of August 1643 at Cavesham bridge near Reading in the County of Berks; and at our upon the 13 of October in the same year at or near the City of Gloucester; and at or upon the 30 of November in the year last mentioned at Newberry in the County of Berks, and at Crepida bridge the 13 of July 1644, and the third of September in the same year at Bodmin and other places, near adjacent in Cornwall; and on the 30 day of November in the year last mentioned at Newberry aforesaid; and on the 8 of June 1645 at the Town of Leicester, and also on the 14th day of the same month in the same year at Naseby field; at which several times and places, or most of them, and at many other places in the Land, at several other times, within the years aforementioned, as also in the year 1646 He the said Charles Stuart hath caused many thousands of the people of the Nation to be slain, & by divisions, parties, and Insurrections in the Land, & by Invasions from foreign parts, endeavoured and procured by him, and by many other evil ways and means, He the said Charles Stuart hath not only maintained and carried on the said war by Land and Sea, during the years aforementioned, but hath also revived, or caused to be revived, the said war against the Parliament, and the good people of the Nation this present year 1648, in the Counties of Kent, Essex, Sutry, Sussex, and Middlesex, and in many other Counties in England and Wales, and also by Sea. And particularly He the said Charles Stuart hath given Commissions to his Son the Prince for that purpose. By which cruel and unnatural war by him the said Charles Stuart Levied, continued and renewed, as aforesaid, much Innocent blood hath been spilt, many families have been undone; The public Treasury wasted and exhausted; Trade obstructed and decayed, Vast expense and damage to the Nation incurred, and many parts of the Land spoilt, some even to desolation. And for further prosecution of the said evil designs, He the said Charles Stuart, doth still continue his Commissions to the said Prince and other Rebels and Revolters. All which wicked designs, Wars and evil practices of him the said Charles Stuart, have been and are carried on for the Advancing and Upholding of the Personal Interest of Will and Power, and pretended Prerogatives to himself against the Public Interest, Right Justice, and peace of the Nation, by and for whom he was Entrusted as aforesaid. By all which it appeareth, that He the said Charles Stuart hath been and is the occasioner, Author, and contriver of the said Unnatural War, and thereby Guilty of all the Treasons, Murders, Rapines, burn, spoils, desolations, damage, and mischief to this Nation, acted and committed in the said Wars, or occasioned thereby. And the said John Cook, doth for the said Treasons and Crimes on the behalf of the people of England, Impeace the said Charles Stuart, as a Tyrant, Traitor, Murderer, and a Public and Implacable Enemy to the Common wealth of England. And therefore prayeth that the said Charles Stuart, King of England, may be put to answer all and every the premises, that such Proceed, Examinations, Trials, Sentences, and Judgements, may be hereupon had, as may be agreeable to Justice. The Lord President Replied, Sir you have now heard your Charge Read, and in the Close it is prayed in behalf of the Commons of England, that you answer to your Charge; The Court Expects your Answer. The King, I would know by what Power I was called hither; I was not long ago in the Isle of Wright, how I came thither is too long to relate, or then I think now to speak of; there I was in treaty with both Houses of Parliament, was as much public faith as its possible, we were almost come to the Conclusion of a Treaty; I would now know by what Authority, I mean lawful, for there are many unlawful Authorities in the world, thiefs and robbers by the high way; but I would know by what Lawful authority I was brought from thence, and carried from place to place, and when I know by what Lawful Authority, I shall answer: Remember, I am your King, and what sins you bring upon your heads, and what Judgements upon this Land, think well upon it; I say, think well upon it, before you go from one sin to a greater; Therefore let me know by what Lawful Authority I am seated here; In the mean time I shall not betray my trust, I have a trust committed to me by God, by old and Lawful descent, I will not betray it, by answering to a new and Unlawful Authority. Lord Precedent, If you had been pleased to have observed what had been hinted to you by the Court at your first coming hither, you would have known by what Authority. Which Authority requires you in the name of the people of England, by which you are Elected King, to answer them. The King, No Sir, I deny that. Lord Precedent, If you acknowledge not the Authority of the Court, they must proceed. The King, I do tell them so, England is an hereditary and not an Elective Kingdom, and hath been so near 1000 years; therefore let me know by what Authority I am called hither; I stand more for the privilege of my people, than any that are seated here; still urging to know by what Authority he was seated there, and he would answer; otherwise not. Precedent, Charges the King with Interrogating the Court, which did not beseem him in that condition. The King told him, he was brought from the Isle of Wight by force, and he did not come there as submitting to the Court, professing to stand for the privilege of the House of Commons, still urging a Legal Authority, warranted by the Word of God, or the Constitution of the Kingdom, and he would Answer. Precedent, Seeing you will not answer, the Court will consider how to proceed; in the mean time, you are to be carried away by them that brought you hither. The Court desires to know whether this is all you will answer. The King, Sir, I desire you would Give me and all the world satisfaction in this, it's no sleight thing you are about, I am sworn to God for the peace of my Country, and therefore you would do well to satisfy God, and then the world by what Authority you do this, there is a God in Heaven that will call you and all that Gives you power to account. Precedent, The Court expects your final answer; you desire satisfaction of their Authority, it is upon God's Authority, and that's our present Work. The King, That which you have said, satisfies no reasonable man. Precedent, That's in your apprehension, we think it reasonable that are your Judges. The King, Neither your apprehension nor mine ought to decide it. Precedent, Commands the King to be taken away. And accordingly he was conveyed back to St James'. Two days after on the 22 of January, the Court meet in the painted Chamber; where they order that the King shall not be suffered to argue the Jurisdiction of the Court, and that in case the King should again dispute their Authority, the Precedent is to let him know, that the Court hath considered his demands the last day, and that he ought to rest satisfied with this answer, That the Commons of England assembled in Parliament have constituted this Court, whose power may not, nor shall not be disputed against by him. Further, That in case the King shall not answer, the Precedent is to let him know, that the Court doth take it as a contumacy, and record it, and in case he answer with a saving notwithstanding of his pretended Prerogative above the Jurisdiction of the Court, the Precedent to refuse his protest, and require his positive answer whether he will own the Court or not. And in case the King shall continue in his contempt, The Precedent shall command the Clerk to demand of the King them; Charles Stuart, King of England, you are accused in behalf of the people of England, of divers high Crimes and Treasons, which Charge hath been Read to you; The Court requires you to give your positive answer, either to confess or deny. And forthwith the Court assembles in Westminster Hall, where after their Names are called over, the Captain of the Guard is commanded to fetch the King, who being brought and seated, as before, a Great shout was made by the people; Solicitor Cook again accuseth the King as before, the Charge being Read, he required he might give a positive answer, which if he refuse, the Charge to be taken pro Confesso, and the Court proceed to Justice. Precedent, Requires the King to give a positive answer, and either confess or deny, it is offered in behalf of the Kingdom to be made good against you, for the Authority of the Court they avow it, and the whole Kingdom are to rest satisfied with it, I therefore require your positive answer. The King persisted in his former protest against the Jurisdiction of the Court, and that a King could not be tried by any superior Jurisdiction on Earth, and told them that pretend what they would be stood for their Liberties; for if Power without Law may alter the fundamental Laws of the Kingdom, what subject is he that can be secure of his Life or Estate; and going to show reasons why he could not allow them a Court, he was Interrupted by the Precedent, who told him they would not allow him to dispute the Authority of the Court, desiring a punctual and direct answer. The King, I understand Law and reason, and therefore under favour I do plead for the Liberty of the people more than you do, and therefore if I should Impose a belief upon any man without reasons given for it, it were unreasonable. The Precedent again Interrupted him, telling him he might not be permitted to speak of Law and reason there; The Vote of the Commons of England assembled in Parliament are the reason of the Kingdom: Sir, you are not to dispute our Authority, and it will be taken notice of that you stand in contempt of the Court, and your contempt will be recorded. King, I do not know how a King can be a Delinquent by any Law, I ever heard of, I demand to be heard my reasons, if you deny that you deny reason. Precedent, Sir, Neither you nor any man shall be permitted to dispute the Authority of the Court; further telling him that if he demurred to the Jurisdiction of the Court, they sitting there by the Authority of the Commons of England, he and all his Predecessors are responsible to them. The King, I deny it. Precedent, You ought to disturb or Interrupt the Court in speaking; They have considered of their own Jurisdiction. King, I say, Sir, The Commons of England were never allowed a Court of Judicature. Precedent, Sir, you are not to be permitted to go on in these discourses. Then the Clerk Read as was Ordered in the painted Chamber, requiring the King to answer; Upon which the King promised to answer, so soon as he knew the Authority of the Court. Precedent, If that be all you have to say, then take away the Prisoner; To which the King replied, I require to give in my Reasons, which the Precedent would not permit; The King urges again to give in his Reasons, but the Precedent told him his Reasons were not to be heard against the highest Jurisdiction. To which the King answered, show me the Court where Reason is not to be heard. The Precedent again commands the Prisoner to be taken away, who was accordingly conveyed back to S James'. The Precedent ordered to record the default. On the 23 of January, 1648. The Court met again according to the usual manner, and the Prisoner was brought with his Guard, and seated in his Chair; Solicitor Cook made a formal Speech, addressing himself to the Precedent, and in the Close craved Judgement to be pronounced against the Prisoner. The Precedent addresses himself to the King, and tells him, That it was not for him to dispute the Jurisdiction of the supreme and highest Authority of England, from whom there is no appeal; and further to let him know, that the Court was sensible of his delays, and that they ought not to be thus trifled with, and that they might in Justice take advantage of those delays, and proceed to Judgement against him; yet nevertheless, by direction of the Court, I require a positive answer whether you are Guilty or not Guilty of the Treasons laid to your Charge. To which the King replied, when I was here last I did desire to speak for the Liberties of the people of England, but was Interrupted, I desire to know whether I may speak freely or not. Precedent, Sir, I must let you know from the Court, that you are not to be permitted to run out into any discourses, until such time as you have given a positive answer to the matter that hath been Charged upon you. The King, For the Charge I value it not a rush, it's the Liberty of the people I stand for, I that am your King, and sworn to maintain the Laws, for me to acknowledge a new Court that I never heard of; here he was Interrupted. Sir, you ought not to Interrupt me; How I came here I know not, there is no Law for it, to make your King your Prisoner. Precedent, Sir, you must know the pleasure of the Court. The King, By your favour Sir. Precedent, Nay Sir, by your favour you may not be permitted to fall into these discourses; The Court once more demands your positive answer. Here the Clerk Read the same as before. To which the King replied; To give satisfaction to the people of the Clearness of my proceed, not by way of answer, but to satisfy them that I have done nothing against the trust that hath been committed to me, but to acknowledge a new Court against their privilege, or to alter the fundamental Laws of the Kingdom, you must excuse me. Precedent, Sir, This is the third time you have disownd the Court, and put an affront upon it; how far you have preserved the privilege of the people your actions have spoke it; men's Intentions are known by their actions, you have written your meaning in bloody Characters; but Sir, The pleasure of the Court is, that the Clerk Record your default, and you Gentlemen that take Charge of the Prisoner, take him away. Who was Immediately conveyed back to St James' as accustomed. On the 27 of January, 1648. The Court met again in Westminster Hall, being in all seventy eight. Whose Names were: John Bradshaw, Sarjeant at Law, Precedent. Oliver Cromwell, Lieutenant General. Commissary General Ireton. Major Gen: Skippon. Lords. Thomas Lord Grace of Groby. Philip Lord Lisle. Colonels. Edward Whaly. Thomas Harrison. Isaac Ewer. Thomas Pride. Rowland Wilson. Richard Ingolshy. William Purofoy. Henry Martin. Hewson. Edward Ludlow. Robert Titchburne. John Huchinson. Owen Row. Adrian Scroop. Robert Lilburne. John Harrison. Richard Deane. John Okey. John More. William Goffe.: John Desborough. Edmond Harvey. Francis Lasseley. John Venne. John Downes. Anthony Stapeley. George Fleetwood. James Temple. Thomas Hamond. Thomas Wait. John Barkstead. Godfrey Boswell. Matthew Tomlins. Herbottle Morley. Knights. Sir Henry Mildmay. Sir John Danvers. Sir. William Brereton. Sir. Miles Livesey. Francis Thorpe, Sargeant. Aldermen of London. Isaac Pennington. Thomas Atkins. John Fowkes. Thomas Scott. Thomas Andrews. Esquires. Gilbert Millington. John Blackstone. William Heinington. Cornelius Holland. Miles Corbet. Francis Allin. John Carme. John Jones. Peregrine Pelham. John Gowden. Thomas Chaloner. John Aldred. William Say. Dennis Bond. Henry Smith. Gregory Clement. Humphrey Edward's. Henry Smith. James Chaloner. John Fry. Abraham Burrell. William Cowley. Nicholas Love. John Lisle. Vincent Potter. John Corbet. Thomas Blunt. Thomas Boone. John Lawns. Augustine Caranell. John Down. John Dexwell. Silence being Commanded at the Kings coming into the Court, there was a great Cry made in the Hall for Execution, Execution. The King desired to speak, and hopes he shall give no occasion of Interruption. Precedent, You may, but you must hear the Court first; the King presses to be heard before Judgement, to which the Precedent promised he should. Then the Precedent began his Speech, addressing himself to the Court, how that the Prisoner at the Bar hath been several times Charged with Treason in the name of the people of England, and required to answer; That he hath been so far from obeying the Court by submitting to their Justice, that he began to offer reasoning and debate unto the Authority of the Court, and being required to answer, he was pleased to be contumacious, and refused to answer; whereupon the Court have thought fit to take the matter into their consideration, and have considered of the notoriousness of the fact Charged upon the Prisoner, and upon the whole, are agreed and resolved, of a sentence to be pronounced on this Prisoner, but in respect he desires to be heard before sentence, the Court are resolved to hear him, provided he meddle not with the Jurisdiction of the Court, but if he have any thing to say in his own defence, the Court is willing to hear him. The King tells them, a hasty sentence once past, may sooner be Repent then recalled, desiring he might be heard in the Painted Chamber before the Lords and Commons. I cannot be Judge of that I have to say, but if it be reason, and really for the welfare of the Kingdom, and Liberty of the subject, I am sure it will be well worth the hearing before my sentence be past, therefore I do conjure you, as you love that you pretend, I hope its real, the Liberty of the subject, and the peace of the Kingdom, that you will grant me a hearing before you pass sentence; to which the Precedent Replied, that it was a further declining of the Jurisdiction of the Court. The King craving pardon for his Interruption, endeavoured to clear it, that it was not a declining of the Court, although he could not own it. The Precedent told him they had with much patience waited his leisure as to an answer, and that what he had offered tended to a delay, and such delays neither the Kingdom nor Justice could admit of, but the Court is content to withdraw for a time, and you shall know their further pleasure. The Sarjeant at Arms declares from the Court, that the Prisoner was to be withdrawn, until such time as they should send for him. After half an hour's space, the Court being set, The Precedent Commands the Sarjeant at Arms to send for the Prisoner, who being brought, The Precedent told the King, that the Court had withdrawn pro forma Tantum, that they had considered of what was offered, and of their own Authority, which was founded by the supreme Authority of the Parliament of the Commonwealth of England, and that they had acted according to their Concession, but the return that you are to expect from them is, that they have been too much delayed by you already, and Judges are no more to delay then to deny, and notwithstanding what you have offered, they are resolved to proceed to punishment and Judgement, and this is their unanimous resolution. The King, Sir, It is in vain for me to dispute, I know you have power enough, but it would have been for the Kingdom's peace, if you would have shown the lawfulness of your power; it is not my own good I look at, but the Kingdom's peace, and welfare; I do put at your doors all the Inconveniences of a hasty sentence, I confess I have been here eight days, it's but a little delay of a day or two more that may give the Kingdom peace, whereas a hasty Judgement may bring on that trouble and perpetual Inconveniency to the Kingdom, that the child unborn may repent it, therefore once again I desire to be heard by the Lords and Commons in the painted Chamber. Precedent, You have already received the Resolutions and Judgement of the Court in it, they desire to know if you have any thing more to say before sentence. The King, If you will grant me this delay, I doubt not but to give some reasonable satisfaction, therefore I require you as you will answer it at the dreadful day of Judgement, that you will consider it. To which the Precedent replied, If you have nothing more to say, we must proceed to sentence. The King, I have nothing more to say. Precedent, The Court hath something to say to you, though it will not be acceptable to you, dilating upon the Charge, and the several particulars whereof the Prisoner was Guilty, Illustrating his speech with divers examples sacred and profane, that the people have deposed, nay executed their Kings for misgovernment. In the Close of which the King desired to be heard (before sentence) concerning those Imputations Charged upon him. The Precedent Replied, that his time was now past, and he was not far from sentence. The King again moves to be heard concerning those Imputations; but the Precedent told him that he not acknowledging them to be a Court, they could not admit of what he had to say; and further, Insisting upon his guilt, minding him what the Scripture saith, For to acquit the Guilty is of equal abomination as to condemn the Innocent: We may not acquit the Guilty, what sentence the Law denounceth to a Traitor, a Murderer, and a Public Enemy to the Country, that sentence you are now to have read unto you, and that is the sense of the Court. O yes, and filence Commanded, the Precedent appoints the Clerk to read the sentence, which was; That whereas the Commons of England in Parliament assembled, have appointed them a High Court of Justice for the trying of Charles Stuart King of England, before whom he had been three times Convented, and at the first time a Charge of High Treason and other Crimes and misdemeanours was read in behalf of the Kingdom of England, etc. Reading the Charge. To which Charge he the said Charles Stuart refused several times to answer. For all which Treasons and Crimes this Court doth adjudge that the said Charles Stuart, as a Tyrant, Traitor, Murderer, and a public Enemy, shall be put to death by severing his head from his body. The sentence being read, the Precedent told him, The sentence read, and published, is the Act, Sentence, Judgement, and resolution of the whole Court; Upon which the Court stood up, assenting to what the Precedent had said. The King would have been heard, but the Precedent told him he was not to be heard after sentence, and forthwith commanded the Prisoner to be carried away, who was conveyed to White Hall. The Reasons why he could not consent to the Court, are as followeth, which he Intended to deliver on Monday Jan. 22. in writing, but was not permitted. Having already made My protestations not only against the illegality of this pretended Court, but also that no Earthly power can justly call Me (who am your KING) in question as a Delinquent; I would not any more open My mouth upon this occasion, more than to refer Myself to what I have spoken, were I alone in this case alone concerned. But the duty I own to God in the preservation of the true liberty of My people, will not suffer Me at this time to be silent: For, how can any freeborn Subject of England call Life, or any thing he possesseth, his own; if Power without Right daily make new, and abrogate the old fundamental Law of the Land? which I now take to be the present case. Wherefore when I came hither, I expected that you would have endeavoured to have satisfied Me concerning these grounds which hinder Me to answer to your pretended Impeachment; but since I see that nothing I can say will move you to it (though Negatives are not so naturally proved as Affirmatives) yet I will show you the Reason why I am confident you cannot judge Me, nor indeed the meanest Man in England; for, I will not (like you) without showing a reason, seek to impose a belief upon My Subjects. * Hereabout I was stopped, & not suffered to speak any more concerning Reasons. There is no proceeding just against any Man, but what is warranted either by God's Laws, or the municipal Laws of the Country where he lives. Now I am most confident, that this days proceeding cannot be warranted by God's Law, for on the contrary, the authority of obedience unto Kings is clearly warranted and strictly commanded both in the Old and New Testament; which if denied, I am ready instantly to prove: and for the Question now in hand, there it is said, That where the word of a King is, there is power, and who may say unto him, what dost thou? Eccles. 8.4. Then for the Laws of this Land, I am no less confident, that no learned Lawyer will affirm, that an impeachment can lie against the King, they all going in His Name; and one of their Maxims is, That the King can do no wrong. Besides, the Law upon which you ground your proceed, must either be old or new: if old, show it; if new, tell what Authority warranted by the fundamental Laws of the Land hath made it, and when. But how the House of Commons can erect a Court of Judicature, which was never one itself (as is well known to all Lawyers) I leave to God and the World to judge: And it were full as strange that they should pretend to make Laws without King or Lords-House, to any that have heard speak of the Laws of England. And admitting, but not granting, that the people of England's Commission could grant your pretended power, I see nothing you can show for that; for certainly you never asked the question of the tenth man of the Kingdom, and in this way you manifestly wrong even the poorest ploughman, if you demand not his free consent; nor can you pretend any colour for this your pretended Commission without the consent at least of the major part of every man in England, of whatsoever quality or condition, which I am sure you never went about to seek; so far are you from having it. Thus you see that I speak not for My own right alone, as I am your KING, but also for the true liberty of all My Subjects, which consists not in sharing the power of Government, but in living under such Laws, such a Government as may give themselves the best assurance of their lives, and propriety of their goods. Nor in this must or do I forget the Privileges of both Houses of Parliament, which this days proceeding doth not only violate, but likewise occasion the greatest breach of their public Faith, that (I believe) ever was heard of, with which I am far from charging the two Houses: for all the pretended crimes laid against Me, bear date long before this late Treaty at Newport, in which I having concluded as much as in Me lay, & hopefully expecting the two Houses agreement thereunto, I was suddenly surprised, and hurried from thence as a Prisoner, upon which account I am against My will brought hither, where since I am come I cannot but to My power defend the ancient Laws and Liberties of this Kingdom, together with My own just right; Than for any thing I can see the higher House is totally excluded. And for the House of Commons, it is too well known that the major part of them are detained or deterred from sitting, so as if I had no other, this were sufficient for Me to protest against the lawfulness of your pretended Court. Besides all this, the peace of the Kingdom is not the least in My thoughts, and what hopes of settlement is there so long as Power reigns without rule of Law, changing the whole frame of that Government under which this Kingdom hath flourished for many hundred years, (nor will I say what will fall out in case this lawless unjust proceeding against Me do go on) and believe it, the Commons of England will not thank you for this change, for they will remember how happy they have been of late years under the Reign of Q. Elizabeth, the King My Father, and Myself, until the beginning of these unhappy Troubles, and will have cause to doubt that they shall never be so happy under any new. And by this time it will be too sensibly evident, that the Arms I took up were only to defend the fundamental Laws of this Kingdom, against those who have supposed My power hath totally changed the ancient Government. Thus having shown you briefly the Reasons, why I cannot submit to your pretended Authority, without violating the trust which I have from God, for the welfare and liberty of My People; I expect from you either clear Reasons to convince My judgement, showing Me that I am in an Error (and then truly I will readily answer) or that you will withdraw your proceed. Sir Hardresse Waller, Harrison, Deane, and Okey, Colonels, with Lieutenant General Ireton, are by the Court appointed to consider of time and place for executing the King, who resolve that the Open street before White Hall is a fit place, and that the King be there executed the next day being the 30 of January 1648. and that the scaffold he covered with black. January 27. the King lay at White Hall, the next day being Sunday, the Bishop of London preached before him in his Chamber; The same day all the Members of the Court kept a fast in the Chapel at White Hall. Monday his Children were permitted to visit him at St James', but stayed not long. Tuesday the 30 of January, the fatal day, he prays and receives the Sacrament, and at ten a Clock attended by a Regiment of foot, and his Guard of Partisons, with Bishop Juxson on one hand, and Colonel Tomlinson on the other, walks afoot through the Park; as they were going he bids them go faster, telling them he now went before them to strive for a heavenly Crown with less solicitude, than he had oftentimes bid his Soldiers to fight for an earthly Diadem; he goes into his Cabinet Chamber at White Hall, continuing in his devotions, refusing to dine, but about twelve a Clock he eat a bit of bread and drank a glass of claret wine; near one of the Clock he was conveyed through the Banqueting-house, and past through the great window upon the scaffold covered with black, where he beheld two Executioners disguised with vizards, the Axe and Block ready, which nothing affrighted him; he addressed himself to Colonel Tomlinson as followeth. I Shall be very little heard of any body else, I shall therefore speak a word unto you here: Indeed I could have held My peace very well, if I did not think that holding My peace would make some men think that I did submit to the guilt, as well as to the punishment: But I think it is My duty to God first, and then to My Country, to clear Myself both as an honest man, a good King, and a good Christian. I shall begin first with My innocency, and in troth, I think it not very needful for Me to insist long upon this, for all the World knows that I never did begin a War with the two Houses of Parliament, and I call God to witness, to whom I must shortly make an account, that I never did intent to encroach upon their Privileges, they began upon Me; it is the Militia they began upon; they confessed that the Militia was Mine, but they thought it fit for to have it from Me; and to be short, if any body will look to the dates of Commissions, of their Commissions and Mine, and likewise to the Declarations, he will see clearly that they began these unhappy troubles, not I; so that as for the guilt of these Enormous crimes that are laid against Me, I hope that God will clear Me of it: I will not (for I am in charity) and God forbidden that I should lay it upon the two Houses of Parliament, there is no necessity of either, I hope they are free of this guilt; but I believe that ill Instruments between them & Me, have been the chief cause of all this bloodshed; so that, as I find Myself clear of this, I hope (and pray God) that they may too: yet for all this, God forbidden that I should be so ill a Christian, as not to say that God's judgements are just upon me: Many times he doth pay Justice by an unjust sentence, that is ordinary: I will only say this, That an unjust * Earl of Strafford. sentence that I suffered for to take effect, is punished now, by an unjust sentence upon Me; so far I have said, to show you that I am an Innocent man. Now for to show you that I am a good Christian: I hope there is * Poiating to Dr. Juxen B. of London. a good man that will bear Me witness, That I have forgiven all the World; and even those in particular that have been the chief causers of My Death; who they are, God knows, I do not desire to know, I pray God forgive them. But this is not all, My charity must go further, I wish that they may repent, for indeed they have committed a great sin in that particular; I pray God with St. Stephen, That this be not laid to their charge; and withal, that they may take the right way to the peace of the Kingdom; for My charity commands Me not only to forgive particular men, but to endeavour to the last gasp, the peace of the Kingdom: So (Sirs) I do wish with all My Soul. Turning to some that wrote. (I see there are some here will carry it further) that they may endeavour the peace of the Kingdom. Now (Sirs) I must show you both how you are out of the way, and put you in a way; first, you are out of the way, for certainly all the way you ever have had yet, as far as I could find by any thing, is in the way of Conquest; certainly this is an ill way; for Conquest in My opinion is never just, except there be a good and a just cause, either for matter of wrong, or a just Title, and then if you go beyond the first quarrel that you have, that makes it unjust at the end that was just at first: For if there be only matter of Conquest, than it is a great Robbery; as a Pirate said to Alexander, that he was the great Robber, himself was but a petty Robber, and so, Sirs, I do think for the way that you are in, you are much out of the way. Now Sirs, for to put you in the way, believe it, you will never go right, nor God will never prosper you, until you give God his due, the King his due (that is my Successor) and the people their due; I am as much for them as any of you. You must give God his due, by regulating rightly his Church (according to the Scripture) which is now out of order: and to set you in a way particularly now I cannot, but only this, A National Synod freely called, freely debating among themselves, must settle this, when every opinion is freely and clearly heard. For the King, Indeed I will not, the Laws of the Land will clearly instruct you for that; therefore because it concerns My own particular, I only give you a touch of it. For the people. Truly I desire their liberty and freedom, as much as any body whomsoever; but I must tell you, That their liberty and their freedom, consists in having Government under those Laws, by which their Lives and their Goods may be most their own. It is not in having a share in the Government, that is nothing pertaining to them. A Subject and a Sovereign are clean different things; and therefore, until you do that, I mean, That you do put the people into that liberty as I say, certainly they will never enjoy themselves. Sirs, It was for this, that now I am hither come: for if I would have given way to an Arbitrary way, for to have all Laws changed according to the power of the Sword, I needed not to have come here; and therefore I tell you, (and I pray God it be not laid to your charge) That I am the Martyr of the people. In troth Sirs, I shall not hold you any longer; I will only say this to you, That I could have desired some little time longer, because I would have put this that I have said in a little better order, and have had it a little better digested, than I have done; and therefore I hope you will excuse Me. I have delivered my Conscience, I pray God, that you do take those courses that are best for the good of the Kingdom, and your own Salvations. Bishop of London. Will your Majesty (though it be very well known what your Majesty's affections are to Religion, yet because it may be expected, that You should say somewhat) declare yourself for the World's satisfaction in that point. KING. I thank you very hearty (my Lord) for that I had almost forgotten it. In troth Sirs, My Conscience in Religion, I think, is very well known to all the World; and therefore I declare before you all, That I die a Christian according to the profession of the Church of England, as I found it left to Me by My Father; and this honest * Pointing to the Bishop. man, I think, will witness it. Then turning to the Officers, He said, Sirs, excuse Me for this same. I have a good cause, and I have a gracious God; I will say no more. Bishop of London. There is but one Stage more, This Stage is turbulent and troublesome; it is a short one: But You may consider it will soon carry You from Earth to Heaven: and there You shall find a great deal of cordial joy and comfort. KING. I go from a corruptible to an incorruptible Crown, where no disturbance can be, no disturbance in the World. The Bishop. You are exchanged from a temporal to an eternal Crown; a good exchange. Then the King, after some short and servant ejaculations in private, with hands and eyes lift up to Heaven: immediately stooping down, laid His neck upon the Block: And then the Executioner appointed to give the fatal blow, putting His hair under His Cap, the King said, Stay for the sign. And after a very little pause, stretching forth His hands, the Executioner at one blow severed His Head from His Body, and he changed a troublesome life for a quiet death. His body was put in a Coffin covered with black Velvet, and from thence carried to his House at St. James', where it was put in a Coffin of Lead, laid there to be seen by the people. On Wednesday the 7th of Feb. his Corpses was delivered to two of his servants to be buried at Windsor; whether the next day, The Duke of Richmond, the Marquis of Hartford, the Earls of Lindsey and Southampton, together with Dr. Juxon, and divers others repaired, where with much difficulty they find a Vault in St. George's Chapel, where King Henry the Eighth was formerly buried: which being prepared, a small piece of Lead, some two foot long, and two inches broad was provided; on which was inscribed; King CHARLES 1648. which was sawdred to the breast of the Corpse: all things being in readiness, the Corpse was brought to the Vault by the Soldiers of the Garrison, over which was a black Velvet Hearse-Cloth, which was supported by four Lords, the Bishop of London stood weeping by, than was it deposited in silence and sorrow, the Hearse-Cloth being cast in after it. FINIS. A Table of the principal things contained in this BOOK. A. BIsnop Andrews death. 15 Sir Robert Anstruther sent Ambassador into Germany. 25 Lord Audly Arraigned and condemned. 26 Bishop Abbot's death. 27 Articles of the Church consented to in ireland. 30 Articles betwixt the Scots and English. 38 Arms atrive from Holland for the King. 69 Army's Declaration, 133 Their second Declaration, 167. Their reasons for secluding the Members. 169 Petition for Justice on the Capital offenders. ibid. B. Buckingham accused of Treasen by Gondamore, 4. Sent into Holland, 10. accuses Digly. 12. His Voyage for Relief of Rochel. 16. 1s stabbed by Felton. 19 Interred at Westminster. 20 Judge Barkleys arresting in the King's Bench. 47 Bucking ham shire Petition for Mr. Hamden. 60 Blake executed for treachery. 79 Bransord fight. 80 brown's successes at Abbington. 97 Brereton Victorious. 105 Barwick surprised. 142. C. King Charles borne, 1. Created Duke of York, ib. Goes into Spain, 2. Arrives safe home, 3. Proclaimed King of Great Britain. 6. Espoused to Henneretta Maria. 7. Summons a Parliament. ibid. His Speech, 8. Adjourns the Parliament to Oxford, 9 In want, ibid. And dessolves them, 10. His Coronation, 11. Calls a second Parliament, ibid. His Speech in the House, 12. Dissolves the Parliament, 13. Assists the French, 14. His speech to the Queen's attendants, ibid. Summons a third Parliament, 17. Grants the Petition of Right, 19 Speech in the Lord's House, 23. Dissolves the Parliament, 24. Visited with the small Pox, 27. Goes into Scotland, ibid. His care for the service of God in Scotland, 28. Sends an Army to suppress the Scots, 36. Summons a fourth Parliament, 39 He addresses himself to the City for money, 41. Raises a second Army against the Scots ibid. Speech to the long Parliament, 44. Speech in the Banqueting House, 46. He breaks the Dutch match to them, 47. Passeth the Bill for Trieniall Parliaments, ibid. Vindicates the Earl of Strafford, 49. Goes into Scotland, 54. Appoints Essex General, ib. Returns from Scotland, 55. Charges the five Members with high treason, 57 Goes to the House to demand them, 59 Goes to Hampton Court, 61. Thence to Dover, 62. Comes back to Greenwich, thence to Theobalds', 62. Sends to the House of his Intentions for Ireland, 64. Demands Hull, 65. Speech to the Gentry of Yorkshire, ibid. Sends out Commissions of Array, 69. His speech to the Nobility and Gentry at York, 70. Besieges. Hull, ib. Hepublishes his Grand Declaration at York, 72. Sets up his Standard, 73. Sends a Message from Nottingham, ibid. Sets up a Mint at Shrewsbury, 75. Summons Gloucester. 86. Summons a Parliament at Oxford, 90. Receives the Sacrament at Oxford, 91. Sends a Message for peace, 93. Dissolves the Parliament at Oxford, 94. Flies to Leicester, 104. Sends Propositions for peace, 109. Flies disguised to the Scots Army, 110. Sends a Message from Newcastle, 114. Comes to Holmbey, 116. Desires to come to London, 118. comes to Newmarket, 119. Removed to Causum, 120. Thence to Woborne, 121. Removed to Hampton Court, 122. Flies to the Isle of Wight, 126. his Letter to the House, 150. Sent a Letter to the General, 133. Letter to the Lords, 134. He earnestly presses a personal Treaty, 135. is discontented, 139. sends an answer to the Parliaments Message, 150. sends a Message to the House, 157 conveyed to Hurst Castle, 168 brought to Windsor, 170. brought to St. James', 171 His first day's Trial, 172 second days Trial, 179 third days Trial, 181. last days Trial, 183. sentence, 188. his reasons against the Court, 189. Committee appointed to consider of Execution, 191. Jan. 30. 1648. appointed for his execution, 193. His speech on the scaffold, 194. He's executed, 198. Interred at Windsor, 199 Cades Voyage. 10 Mr. Cooks Insolent speech in the House. 11 Mr. Crew sent to the Tower. 40 County of York petition the King. 64 City of London set up Chains and Posts. 76. Petition the Parliament. 141 Cirencester for the Parliam. 81 Covenant Taken throughout the Kingdom. 87 Countess of Derby holds out Latham House. 91 Coruish Hugg. 92 Lieutenant General Cromwell continued, 97. is Victorious at Ipslcy bridge, 98. Takes Blechingdon house, ib. Routs the Clubmen, 107. Takes the Devises, 108. Takes Langford House, ibid. Takes Winchester, ibid. Orderd to suppress Poyer & Lang borne, 144. Takes Pomfret Castle, 148. Goes against Hambleton, 148. Enters Scotland, 164. Takes Carlisle, and Barwick, 165. Returns from Scotland. ibid. Cornet Joice seizes the King. 118 Committee of Derby House. 137 Chepstow Castle surprised for the King, 140. retaken 145 Colchester surrendered. 158 Commissioners go to the Isle of Wight. 160 City in danger. 165 Country's Complaint of free quarter. ibid. Charge against the King. 173 D. Dutch Ambassador arrives in England. 10 Digby accuses Buckingham. 12 Sir Dudley Digs sent to the Tower. 13 Divers Members of the Commons House Committed. 24 Dispute about Ship-money. 31 Dutch Ambassador Treats of a Match betwixt the King's Eldest Daughter, and the Prince of Orange. 47 Drums beaten up in London. 71 Dutch Ambassador mediates for a peace. 94 Sir Lewis Dives took Waymouth for the King. 96 Drums beaten up in Colchester for the King. 142 E. England's Coasts Infested by Pirates. 28 England happy if ever. 31 Episcopacy turned out of Scotland. Earl of Haddington blown up. 42 English Nobility petition the King. ibid. Earl of Strafford sequestered the House, 45. Trial in Westminster Hall, 48. His speech at his Execution. 52 Earl of Warwick gets possessiof the Navy. 65 Earl of Bedford General of the Horse for the Parliament. 71 Essex Chief Rendezvous at Northampton, 75. Befieges Reading, 81. Relieves Gloucester, 87. Surprises Cirencester, 88 Laid aside, 97. His death and burial. 112 Edg-Hill Battle. 77 Earl of Northumber land made Governor of the King's Children. 97 Essex men Petition for a personal Treaty, 143. Secure the Committee men. 146 Ewers made Governor of the Isle of Wight. 167 F. French King requires Aid. 13 The French require satisfaction. 15 Felton stabs Buckingham, 19 He is arraigned and Executed 20 The Fleet sets forth from Porchmouth. ibid. A Fleet set out to scour the Seas. 31 Five Members Impeached. 45 Lord Fairfax and his Son takes York. 94 Sir Thomas Fairfax made General, 97. Relieves Taunton, 99 Takes Bostoll house, 101. and Gaunt house, ibid. Takes Leicester, 104. Relieves Taunton, 105. Takes Bridgewater, 106. Takes Bath, ibid. Takes Sherburne Castle by Storm, 107. Takes Bristol, ibid. Takes Exeter, 108. and Dartmouth, ibid. Takes Tiverton, ibid. Received in state at Leicester, 116. Enters the City of London, 123. Goes into Kent, 146. into Essex, 153. Sends a Letter concerning Colchester, 159. Comes to London. 168 Lord Francis killed. 147 G. Gundamore Ambassador for England. 2 Pope Gregory dies. 3 Gentlemen of the Inns of Court their mask. 28 Sir Richard Gurney sent to the Tower. 72 Goring Lands at Newcastle. 86 Great seal broken. 112 Glenham secures Carlisle for the King. 148 H. Mr. Hollis his Insolency in the House. 22 Mr. Hollis Accuseth the Earl of Strafford. 45 Sir John Hotham denies the King's entrance into Hull. 65 Sir John Hotham his son declares for the King, 83. both seized prisoners, 84. beheaded. 96 Hopton in the West for the King. 77. is Victorious in the West. 100 Horton Routs the Welsh. 144 Hambleton made General of the Scots Army, 144 Enters England, 148. is beaten, 154 Holland Routed and fled. 147 Major Huntingdon leaves the Army. 150 I. King James Inclined to peace, 2. His speech to the Parliament, 3. His death and Character, 5. Burial. 6 James Duke of York born. 28 Dr. Juxon Bishop of London made Lord Treasurer. 30 Irish Rebellion broke out. 55 Inns of Court Gentlemen tender their service to the King. 60 Judge Jenkins sentence at the Bar of the House. 138 Insurrections in Cornwall. 14● Judges displaced. 171 Bishop Juxon ordered to attend the King. ibid. K. The Kingdom big with Expectation of Parliament. 44 King and Queen meet at Edghill. 84 Kentish Insurrection, 145 Muster on Black heath. 146 L. LONDON visited with the plague. 7 Dr. Layton sentenced. 26 Bishop Laud made Archbishop of Canterbury. 28. He gave order to Remove the Communion Table, 31 Revives the Ancient Ceremonies of the Church, 39 is assaulted by the multitude, 40. Accased by the Commons, 46. Condemned and Executed. 95 Lessly defeats the English. 41 Lords House complain of breach of privilege, 45 Their Votes concerning the King. 170 Lord Keeper Littleton goes after the Seal to the King, 68 Lindsey General for the King, 75 Loves unadvised Expression, 96 Langdale Routs the Lincolashire Horse, 96. He is defeated, 109. Raises forces in the North. 145 Lawhorne declares for the King. 140 Sir Charles Lucas for the King, 147. is shot to death, 158 and Sir George Lisle. ibid. M. Montrosse discerns the deceit of the Scots. 44 Members of the Commons House made long speeches, 45 Members go to the King at York. 67 Massey made Governor of Gloucester, 76. Summons Malborough. 92 Prince Maurice besieges Exeter, 85. Takes Evisham by storm. 100 Marston More fight. 94 Members of the Commons House Impeached, 120. They discharge themselves. 121 Massey flies into Holland. 123 Mayor and Aldermen of London Impeached of high trea son. 123 Mutiny at Bury. 140 Maidston Retaken. 146 Members secluded the House, 168 N. Northern Counties suffer by the Scots. 46 Earl of Newcastle in the North. 80 Newberry Battle. 88 Earl of Northampton Routs the Northampton Horse. 97 Naseby Battle. 103 Newcastle and Hull sortified. 141 O. Overtures of a Match with France. 4 Ormond sends over forces for the King. 88 Oxford besieged, 101. more straightened, 109. Surrendered. 111 Sir John Owen Raises forces for the King. 147 P. Parliament require an account of the Prince's journey into Spain, 4. Break off the Match. ibid. Parliament petition concerning Religion and Grievances, 9 They Article against Buckingham, 13. The third Parliament supply the King's wants, 18. Remonstrate against Buckingham, 19 They dissolve themselves, 23. Parliament in April 1640. 29. dissolved, 40. Another Parliament in November 1640. 43. Long Parliament began, 44 Relieve distressed Ministers, 45. discharge Burton, Prin, and Bastwick, ibid. Petition for a Guard, 56. Petition for the Militia, 61. Send a Message to the Queen, 62. Order the Rigging of the Navy, 63. settling the Militia, ib. Petition the Magazine at Hull be brought to London, 64. Issue out Commissions for the Militia, 67. Petition the King, 68 Orders bringing in money and plate, 69. Vote an Army to be raised, 70. declare against the Commission of Array, 72. Vote the Counties to associate, 76. solicit the Scots, 79. Vote an Assembly of Divines, 83. a new great Seal, ibid. Articles of high treason against the Queen, 84. detain the King and Queen's Revenue, ibid. Require the assistance of Scotland, 87. Vote it Treason for any Member to desert the House, 92. make proclamation concerning the King, 110. Vote the King to Warwick Castle, ibid. send Commissioners to Newcastle 111 Vote Presbytery to be set led, 112. Vote 400000 l. for the Scots, ibid. Vote the Confession of Faith, 113. Vote the King to come to Holmbey, 114. Vote the disbanding of the Army, 117. Vote the City be put in a posture of defence, 121 Vote Propositions be sent to the King, 124. Votes concerning the King's flight, 139. Vote a personal Treaty, 132. send Commissioners to Scotland, 134. Votes for non-addresses, 136. Lord's consent to non addresses, 137. Null the Votes for non-addresses, 142. Vote the Scots entering England Enemies, 149. Vote the King to come within twenty miles of London, ibid. Nominate the Isle of Wight for a Treaty, ibid. Null the Votes for non addresses, 151. Appoint Commissioners to Treat, 159. sit all day and night, 168. The remainder of the House continue sitting, 169. Null the Vote for Concessions, 170. Vote a Charge against the King, ibid. The Priests Impose a penance on the Queen. 14 Petition of Right. 18 Proclamation against Papists, 27 Prince Charles borne and dieth. 24 Prince Charles his birth, 25 Goes for Scille. 109 Peace betwixt England and Spain. 26 Princess Mary borne. 27 St. Paul's Church began to be Repaired. ibid. Old Par brought to London. 30 Prince Elector comes to London. ibid. Princess Elizabeth borne. ibid. Princess. Anne borne. 32 Prin, Bastwick, and Burton sentenced. Prince Henry borne. 41 Alderman Penington petitions against Episcopacy. 46 Princess Mary married to the Prince of Orange. 50 Prince Rupert & Prince Maurice arrives. 74 Plot for betraying London. 82 Plot for betraying Bristol. ib. Proclamation against the Covenant. 88 Pomfret Castle taken. 106 Prince Maurice for the Hague, 112 Pendennis Castle surrendered. ibid. Poyer and powel declare for the King. 140 Pomfret Castle surprised. 147 Surrender Pembroke Castle. 148 Proclamation for witnesses against the King. 171 Q. Queen arrives in England. 7 Queen-Mother comes for England. 36 Queen arrives from Holland. 81 Queen goes for France. 91 R. Rumours of a plaster applied to King James his wrist. 5 Rotchell besieged. 17 Prince Rupert arrives in England, 74. Summons Gloucester, 82. Besieges Litchfield, 83. Routs the Buckingham forces. 84. Besieges Bristol, 85. takes Leicester by storm, 100 goes for France. 112 Ragland Castle surrendered. 112 Representative ordered. 169 S. The Treaty of the Spanish Mateh dissolved. 4 Statutes against Recusants. 11 Ship-money. 29 The Scots hatch mischief. 30 Scotch Service-book revisd 32 Scots petition against the Common prayer-book, 34. They Arm, 35. Their Propositions, 43. a cessation, 44 Their deceir, 45. Scots Army enter England, 90. Besiege Newwark, 107. Carry the King to Newcastle, 111 desire the King to take the Covenant, 192. Scots unreasonable demands, 112. Their threatening, 113. quit Newcastle, 116. are sensible of the King's imprisonment, 126. Letter to the Parliament, 132. raise an Army for the King 141. Scots Declaration. 143 Star-Chamber Voted down, 53 Scarborough Castle taken, 106 Sherburne Castle taken. 107 Surrey petition for a personal Treaty. 144 Seamen Revolt from Warwick. 146 Scarborough Castle for the King. 150 T. Term at Reading. 11 Tonnage and poundage complained of. 21 Tumults at Westminster. 50 Tumult in the Isle of Wight. 135 Tinmouth Castle revolts and retaken. 150 Treaty in the Isle of Wight. 161 V. An Uproare in Edinburgh at the Reading of the Common-prayer-book. 33 Uxbridge Treaty. 96 W. Bishop Wren accused by the Commons. 26 Secretary Windebank flies. ibid. Worcester secured for the King. 75 Winchester for the Parliament. 81 Lord Wilmot defeats Waller in the West. 85 Waller takes A undell Castle. 89.