Sir William Brereton's LETTER SENT To the Honoble William Lenthal Esq Speaker of the honourable House of Commons. Concerning all the Passages and Treaties Of the Siege and taking of the City of CHESTER. AND By Mr. SPEAKER appointed to be printed and published. With a most Exact DECLARATION of Chester's Enlargement after three years' Bondage, Set forth by Nathanael Lancaster, chaplain to the Cheshire Forces.  
London, Printed for Edw. Husband, Printer to the honourable House of Commons, and are to be sold at his Shop at the sign of the Golden Dragon in Fleetstreet, near the Inner-Temple. March 5. 1645.   

TO The Honourable William Lenthal Esquire, Speaker to the Honourable House of Commons.  
SIR,  
I Will not presume to present the enclosed to the more public view of the House; Yet I have thought fit to Communicate them unto yourself, that so you may receive a more full and exact account of the particulars of our transactions and proceedings here: Touching which I doubt not, but you have heard various Reports, as though there had been a neglect in the use of that endeavour, that might have tended to the speedy reducement of this City: Which it is most true, might have been sooner subdued if there had been a sufficient Army employed against it: But there were more Armed men within the City, than there were foot in our whole Army to maintain the Leaguer, block up Hoult and Hawarden, and to make good all our out Quarters: This City being the more Tenable▪ because more than the half thereof is encompassed and secured by the River of Dee; so as their whole strength might be applied to maintain that part where we stormed, and the whole circumstance of their Walls are not (I believe) so large as the whole Works about Namptwich or Manchester: As also we have not been sufficiently furnished with Ammunition, nor Granadoes until now of late, having bought near 800 or 1000 pounds worth of Ammunition, besides what was sent from London and made use of, whereof you received a former account which was a very large proportion, as I have heard there was near forty Barrels spent in two days. It is true, our last Granadoes (which we could not possibly pro●●●● any sooner, than they came unto us) did great execution, and were 〈◊〉 ●●rrible and the City might have been thereby defaced and destroyed; but not much sooner reduced▪ by reason that the Citizens were so enawed and enslaved, as that they durst not displease nor resist the governor or Officers, who were possessed with expectation of relief by Letters intercepted from Sir Jacob Ashley, Sir William Neal and divers others, giving them assurance, that there was 15000 Danes, French▪ and Irish in Ireland, ready to be transported for their relief: Whereunto I gave no credit, but have thought good to send the Copies of some of the Letters, that so it may appear unto you, that they had hopes of relief, whereby they were induced to be so obstinate as to hold out so long, knowing well their own strength and our weakness; and that the season of the year would not permit us to prosecute those advantages that otherwise might have been better improved; It not being possible for us to proceed on with our line, nor entrench by reason of the extreme hard frost: so as howsoever it might seem a tedious work; yet when it is considered how much our strength was unsuitable to the work, and the great want of Money which made it the more difficult to keep together (upon such extreme hard duty) an Army constituted and collected out of several Counties, how often it hath been attempted to relieve this City, how often they have been repulsed: how little relief hath been conveyed into the City, and how often the enemy hath Sallied out, and been always repulsed: so as during more than twenty weeks close siege, our Quarters have not been beaten up, neither have we sustained any considerable loss, whereby I hope we may be sufficiently vindicated against those calumnies, which the envy of some and impatience of others, have cast upon us: Pardon I beseech you that I have so long detained you▪ and believe that I am, and will always remain  
Your very faithful Friend and Servant, W. B. Chester, Feb. 9 1645.  
SInce the concluding hereof, I hear there are some Irish and some few French landed in Wales, the certainty I shall be able to inform you in my next; but if there be any, they are not much considerable, not said to be above a hundred and fifty in the whole.   

Letters intercepted from Sir Jacob Ashley, the Countess of Leinster and others, directed to the Lord Byron and others.  

To the Lord Byron.  
MY very good Lord, I received a Copy of your Lordships of the second of Jan. this 11 of the same, and am sorry to hear your Lordships reduced to so hard an exigent; the original was sent with a packet from Ireland to Oxford by the governor of Worcester, I being come to Lichfield, where yet I am. I writ to your Lordship from Worcester by Mr. Walley, about 14 days since, but I perceive by Sir John Wats to me of the 4 of this instant (which I received the 10,) that he yet stays at Chirk-Castle; from whence mine hath been sent to your Lordship two ways, so that I hope ours is come to hand. I missed of Captain Eli's, I being come from Worcester, and thereby of the particular Relation of the state of Chester: I perceive the Peace in Ireland is concluded, for my Lord Marques Ormond hath written to my Lord Archbishop of York by Letters of the 12 Decemb. last, (a Copy whereof his Grace sent me, and came to my hands the 10 of this instant) That he had 3000 foot in readiness to be shipped for relief of Chester, for which he desired fit Quarters to be provided against their Landing, which by computation from his Letter should be about this time. I have written to his Grace, praying his best power and assistance to be contributed for providing Quarters for them accordingly; and so soon as I shall have notice of their Landing, I shall advance with what strength I can make, which I hope will be about 1500 horse, and 6 or 700 foot to join with them; and am glad your Lordship can add so considerable a number, which I hope may do the work. My Lord, as by my last, so again I pray you to inform me the enemy's strength▪ and what way is best to come, and such like circumstances as your Lordship thinks pertinent. I assure your Lordship I am very sensible how much the preservation of that place imports His majesty's advantage, and I shall employ the utmost of my endeavours to render it relief: wherein I beseech your Lordship be confident of, and that I am,  
My Lord, Your lordship's most humble Servant, Jacob Ashley. Lichfield, 12. Ian. 1645.   

For Sir Richard Lloyd.  
SIR, My Lord Ashley is not returned from Lichfield; I sent the Letters to him, whose Answer I expect hourly; by the 24 of this month, there will be a force sufficient with God's blessing to raise the Siege; you may assure the City, so much was in cipher, of all this I am very confident, and you may do well to send this to my Lord, whom I will strive to serve to my utmost. I had gone to my Lord Ashley, but for fear of my missing him upon the way.  
Your faithful Servant, Rob: Elice. Bridgnorth, Ian. 14. 1645.   

For my general Friend Sir William Neal.  
DEar Knight, Pray be pleased to speed this enclosed Paper with all possible speed into Chester, it contains crumbs of comfort. My Lord Byron hath the key, for your present satisfaction, be pleased to know, that my Lord Ashley, Sir Charles Lucas, Sir William Vaughan, and plenty of gallant Blades will be in these parts ere many days, with a sufficient force (by the blessing of God) to raise the Siege at Chester: pray seal up the enclosed in a Paper, and direct it for my Lord Byron: my duty to you all.  
Dear Knight, Your true Servant, John Wats. Jan. 18. 2645.  
The Scribe is yours and my Lady's most faithful Servant: This enclosed will be most welcome to your Neighbours: use all possible means to hasten it, to prevent all sluggering comers.   

For my Lord Byron.  
MY Noble Lord, This night ours is come from my Lord Digby, and you post night and day to the King with assurance that 15000 are ready with all Accommodations for to come over for to relieve Chester, which will crown your lordship's work, and the truly loyal Mayor, whose Names will be honoured by all virtuous posterity: they had come over before now, if some miscarriage had not happened, which will suddenly be removed, and then 24 hours will Land them upon English ground, they care not for the enemy's ships. My Noble Lord, when Sir William Gerrard writes in cipher, he will acquaint where the error was, that before now this gallant Army came not; I hope in good time it will: if people's patience be not in Chester altogether exhausted, which God forbid, I assure them those of our Country Gentry that are gone in to the Enemy, conceive themselves much neglected by them, I would not have thus much trespassed upon your lordship's most serious occasions, but knowing of Sir W. Ia. absence, thought it necessary to impart this News in haste to youward, Noble Mayor. God direct you both, and have you in his keeping. So wisheth,  
My Lord▪ Your most humble Servant, Leinster. Ian. 18. 1645.   

For my Lord Byron.  
MAy it please your Lordship, I have sent you these enclosed, which I am sure will be welcome to you; I durst not write to you before now, by reason I had no certainty to write: I believe your Lordship doth know of my condition: here the Enemy lives in Hawarden, Aston, and Stretton and Bretton. I received a Letter from Denby, intimating great hopes of the Irish Landing by this fair wind. My Lord, the Enemy brags of a Parley for the delivering of the City, but I believe them not: I beseech your lordship's care, and two fires if this come safe to your hands; and if all be well an hour after our fire to be made upon the Castle: So desiring you will be pleased to let me hear from you as soon as possible you can, that I may further serve your Lordship, which shall never be wanting by him that will remain.  
My Lord, Your faithful Servant. William Neal. Haw: Castle, Ian. 19 1645.   

For the Ea. of Leinster.  
MY honourable Lord, This night hath produced this News, that 15000 men are already in Ireland, with shipping both from France and Denmark with all other accommodations, and I hope will come in good time, to crown your Lordships and the truly loyal Majors work, which deserves all honour: They had been over before now to your Relief, but for some miscarriage, which will suddenly be removed, and that done, their readiness is so complete, 24 hours will land them on English ground. I have no more to say, but I hear some of our country Gentry being gone to the Enemy, begin to think themselves much neglected by them; so let all be which turn turn-coats. God have you all in his keeping.  
Yours till death, Leinster. January 18.   

Sir Edmond Verney and Major Throp refusing to carry in the Propositions tendered by Sir Wil: Brereton, divers of these Copies were thrown over the walls which produced good effects amongst the Citizens.  
I Did this day deliver unto Sir Edmond Verney and Major Throp Conditions, wherein I tendered to all the Welsh soldiers and Officers, liberty to go and live at their own homes. For the Irish (that have not taken part with the Rebels) liberty to return into Ireland, or to march to any of the King's Garrisons. To the Citizens (who were not Commissioners of Array nor Members of Parliament) the liberty of their persons, the enjoyment of their estates, and freedom of Trade, as other Towns and Cities under the Parliaments power and protection; which would have been performed had they been accepted, but they would not receive them as was desired by  
William Breretor. Chester Suburbs, Ian. 21. 1645.   

SIr, We are told by Sir Edm: Verney, and Major Thomas Throp (Employed from the Lo: Byron our Governor with Propositions) that you intended to send some by a Trumpet of your own (the bringing thereof being contrary to their Instructions) we have since seen Papers under your hand thrown over the walls (two whereof we send enclosed) and desire to know whether those be the Conditions you offered to their conveyance, which if they be not, we wish those may be sent you tendered to them: And remain,  
Your Servants, 

Cha: Walley Major, for myself and Citizens.  
Rob: Tatton, Vic. Com. Cestr.   Chester, Ian. 24. 1645.   

GEntlemen, I have received your Letter, and because this day is set apart for Sacred duties, I shall send my Propositions tomorrow, if before nine of the clock in the morning I receive a pass from the Lord Byron for Col: Chidley Coot, and Lieut. Col. Rob. Venables, and in the mean time I remain  
Your Servant, William Brereton. Ian. 25. 1645.   

SIr, I send enclosed a pass for Col: Coot, and Lieutenant Colonel Venables, their horses and servants, where you shall think fit, that they may meet with Lieutenant Colonel Io. Robinson, and Alderman William Ince, whom I shall send to receive your Propositions; and for whom, with their servants and horses, I desire your pass, and leave it to your choice, whether at the Iron Bridge, or between your Works and our Fort. Upon receipt and consideration had of your Propositions: I shall give such Answer thereunto as shall be consonant to Honour and Justice, and remain  
Your Servant, John Byron. Chester, 26. Ian. 1645.   

To all Commanders, Officers and soldiers of His Majestirs Army and Garrisons whom it may concern.  
YOu are hereby required to suffer the bearers hereof, Col: Chidley Coot, and Lieut. Col. Venables, their servants and horses, quietly to pass and travel to the Iron Bridge, or to the midway between the Fort and the Enemies works at the choice of them, there to meet with Lieut. Col. Io: Robinson, and Alderman William Ince, and to return into the Forgate street without any your let or interruption.  
John Byron. Chester, 26 Ian. 1645.   

MY Lord, Although I expected a pass for those two Gentlemen I nominated to come into the City, as I granted to yours to come into my Quarters, yet to satisfy the Citizens desire and expectation, I have sent you a pass for those Gentlemen you desire to meet the midway (betwixt two and three of the clock this afternoon) between your Fort and our Works, which you shall receive enclosed, and I remain  
Your Servant, William Brereton. Chester Suburbs, Ian. 26. 1645.   

To all Commanders, Officers and common soldiers, in service for King and Parliament, whom it may concern.  
YOu are hereby required to suffer the Bearers hereof, Lieut. Col. John Robinson and Alderman William Ince, their servants and horses quietly to pass and travel the mid▪ way between our Works and the enemy's Fort, there to meet with Col. Chidley Coot and Lieut. Col. Robert Venables, and to return into Chester without any your let or molestation.  
William Brereton. Chester Suburbs, Ian. 26. 1645.   

MY Lord, I cannot now send you such Propositions as have been formerly rejected, every day producing loss of Blood and expense of Treasure: neither will I trouble myself with answering the particulars of your unparalleled demands, to which if I should suit mine, I could require no less than yourself and all the Officers and Commanders to be my prisoners, and the rest submitted to mercy.  
Yet to witness my desires of the preservation of the City, I have upon serious consideration and debate thought fit to tender these enclosed Conditions, for the perfecting whereof, I am content Commissioners meet concerning them, and such further particulars as may be conceived conducible to the welfare of the City and counties adjacent, and have given Commission to these Gentlemen to receive your Answer in writing to these Propositions of mine herewith sent, touching which I shall not be so scrupulous as to demand their return, not valuing to what view they may be exposed, therefore they are to be left with you if you please, and remain  
Your Servant, William Brereton. Chester Suburbs, Ian. 26. 1645.   

From the Lord Byron to Sir William Brereton, upon the first tender of his PROPOSITIONS.  
SIR, I have received your Propositions by the Gentlemen, sent to meet yours; whereunto, in regard of the several conditions of men therein concerned, I cannot for the present give an Answer: upon consideration thereof had by those therein concerned, I shall not fail to give you a punctual Answer thereunto; and in the mean time rest,  
Your Servant, John Byron. Chester, Ian. 26. 1645.   

The second Letter from the Lord Byron to Sir William Brereton, touching the said Propositions.  
SIR, These demands of mine which you term unparalleled, have been heretofore granted (by far greater Commanders than yourself, no disparagement to you) to places in far worse condition then (God be thanked) this yet is, witness the Basse, Breda, Mastricht, and as many other Towns as have been beleaguered either by the Spaniard or Hollander; or to come nearer home, York and Carlifle, and nearest of all Beeston Castle. And therefore you must excuse me, if upon the Authority of so many Examples, I have not only propounded, but think fit to insist upon them as the sense of all manner of people in the City. As for your conceit in the demanding of myself and the rest of the Commanders and Officers to be your Prisoners, I would have you know, That we esteem our Honours so far above our lives, that no extremity whatsoever, can put so mean thoughts into the meanest of us all. And that to submit to your mercy, is by us reckoned amongst those things we intend never to make use of; I am nevertheless still content that the Commissioners whose Names I formerly tendered unto you, meet with such as you shall appoint, in any indifferent place, to Treat upon honourable conditions, and desire you to assure yourself that no other will be assented unto you by  
Your Servant, John Byron. Chester, Ian. 27. 1645.   

Sir William Brereton's Reply to the former.  
MY Lord, I cannot believe that you conceive the War betwixt the Hollander and Spaniard, is to be made a precedent for us: Neither can I believe that such conditions as you demanded, were granted to Basse, Breda, or Mastricht: Sure I am, none such were given to York, Garlisle, or Beeston, though some of them were maintained by as great Commanders as you self, and no disparagement to you.  
I shall therefore offer to your consideration, the Examples of Liverpool, Basing and Latham, who by their refusal of honourable terms when they were propounded, were not long after subjected to Captivity and the Sword.  
You may therefore do right to all those many in●ocents under your Command, to tender their safety, and the preservation of the City; for which end, I have sent you fair and honourable conditions, such as are the sense of all the Officers and soldiers with me, which being rejected, you may expect worse from  
Your Servant, William Brereton. Chester Suburbs, Ian. 27. 1645.   

A letter from the Major of Chester and Mr. Tatton to Sir W: Brereton.  
SIR, My Lord Byron having acquainted us with a Letter which he received from you the last night, in answer to his scent by the said Drum, by which we conceive you apprehend a rejection of your Propositions, which we much wonder at, well knowing that my Lord writ unto you to appoint an indifferent place where ours and your Commissioners might meet to Treat upon the Propos. on both sides, which is apprehended by us to be your sense also, your own Propositions iming so much, and you having so often by Letter expressed your tender care of the city's preservation, and prevention of the effusion of innocent blood. Our desire therefore is, That you will nominate your Commissioners, with the time and place, that ours and yours may meet to debate and Treat upon the Propositions tendered on both sides, without which there can be no hopes of a conclusion. So expecting your Answer, we rest,  
Your Servants, 

Cha: Walley Mayor,  
Rob: Tatton, Vic. Com. Cestr.   Chester, Jan▪ 28. 1645.   

Answer to the haste.  
ALthough I hold myself disengaged from any former tenders, and do very well know your necessitous condition, whereof I have received abundant information several ways: Yet because I desire the city's preservation, and not to lengthen your miseries, I am content to appoint for Commissioners, the Gentlemen whose names are enclosed to Treat with yours upon my Propositions already tendered, to morrow morning by ten of the Clock in the Forgatestreet, if you send in the mean time for a Pass for your Commissioners formerly named, and their servants: In the mean time I remain  
Your servant, W. Brereton. Ian. 28. 1645.  
The names of the Commissioners. 

Col. Bowyer.  
Col. Io. Booth.  
Col. Duckenfield.  
Col. Mich. Jones.  
Col. Chidley Coot.  
Col. Carter.  
Adju. Gen. Lowthian.  
Jonathan Bruen Esq  
Roger Wilbraham Esq  
Lieut. Col. Hunt.  
Lieut. Col. Venables.  
Mr. Rich. Bradshaw.     

From the Major of Chester, and Mr. Tatton to Sir W: Brereton.  
Sir,  
We desire that a Pass for our Commissioners formerly named, ●heir servants and horses, may be sen by this Drum, to meet with yours in the forgatestreet to morrow morning by nine of the Clock, and to return. Remaining  
Your servants 

Cha. Walley Major.  
Robert Tatton, Vic. Com. Cestr.   Chester the 28 of Ian. 1645.   

They delaying time, and not sending for a Pass so soon as was expected, this was sent in to them.  
Gentlemen,  
I Have received your several Dilatory Answers, and do assure you, that if the Lord Byron (in whom you say the sole power of Treaty resteth) do not assent and act therein, you may forbear sending. Do not deceive yourselves in expectation that I will Treat when you please. I am sorry my care of the city's preservation hath produced such unsuitable effects. The further misery that is like to befall that City, be on your heads, and not on  
Your servant Will. Brereton. January 29. 1645.   

Lord Byron to Sir William Brereton.  
SIR, I was knowing of, and consenting to the Letter this day sent by Mr. Mayor and Mr. Sheriff Tatton, touching the intended Treaty, and am content (if a pass may be sent for that purpose) that the Commissioners formerly named, do meet with yours at the time and place in that Letter mentioned, and remain  
Your Servant, John Byron. Chester, Ian. 29.   


MY Lord, I have, according to your desire, sent you a pass here enclosed, for those Gentlemen you formerly nominate, who are to morrow expected at the time and place appointed, where mine also shall be ready. In the mean time I remain  
Your Servant, William Brereton. Chester Suburbs, 29 Ian. 1645.   

A pass for the Chester Commissioners.  
To all Commanders, Officers and other soldiers under my command, in service for King and Parliament.  
THese are to command you to permit and suffer the persons under named, with their Attendants (not exceeding twenty four in number) quietly and peaceably to pass your Scouts and Guards from Chester to this place, with their Horses and Arms, and to return without any your let or hindrance: Hereof fail not at your perils.  
Given under my hand at my Quarters, in the Forgate street, Ian. 29. 1645. 

Sir Edm: Verney Knight & Col.  
William Ince Alderman.  
Thomas Cholmondley Esq  
Lieut. Col. Peter Griffith.  
Lieut. Col. Henry Leigh.  
Christopher Blease Alderman.  
Sergeant Major Tho: Throp.  
Lieut. Col. John Robinson.  
John Johnson Merchant.  
John Werden Gent.  
Dr. Moreton, Divines.  
Tho: Bridge,      

From the Mayor and Lord Byron to Sir William Brereton.  
SIR, upon the return of those Commissioners sent to treat with yours, and the account they have given of their proceedings, we find it so absolutely impossible to make a final conclusion in the time limited, the matter being of so high a concernment to the Estates, Liberties, Lives and Consciences of the several conditions of people in this city, that we are enforced to require a further day, which we desire no longer than Monday next, at which time we hereby engage ourselves, they shall return with full power to conclude: Hereunto not doubting your assent, we rest  
Your Servants, John Byron. Cha: Walley for myself & Citizens. Chester, 31 Jan. 1645.   

MY Lord, Upon due consideration how you have carried on this Treaty, and upon consultation with those with whom I have advised, I find nothing more than delays in your desires, there being no new matter proposed yesterday, but what you have had sufficient time to consider.  
I shall not therefore admit of any further delay, nor longer time to treat and conclude upon the Conditions tendered then this day, and so remain  
Your Servant, William Brereton. Ian. 31. 1645.    

Articles concluded and agreed upon Feb. 1. 1645. between the Commissioners appointed on the behalf of John Lord Byron, Field Marshal General of North▪ Wales, and governor of Chester on the one part, and the Commissioners on the behalf of Sir William Brereton Baronet, Commander in chief of all the Forces of Cheshire, and at the Leaguer before Chester, on the other part; for the Surrender of the City of Chester, with the Castle and Fort thereof.  
1. THat the Lord Byron, and all Noblemen, Commanders, Officers, Gentlemen and soldiers, and all other Persons whatsoever, now residing in the City of Chester, and the Castle and Fort thereof, shall have liberty to march out of the said City, Castle, and Fort, with all their Apparel whatsoever, and no other or more Goods, Horses or Arms, then are hereafter mentioned, viz. The Lord Byron with his Horse and Arms, and ten men with their Horses and Arms to attend him: Also his Lady and Servants, two Coaches and four Horses in either of them, for the accommodating of them, and such other Ladies and Gentlewomen as the said Lord Byron shall think meet, with eighty of the said Lord's Books, and all his Deeds and Evidences, Manuscripts and Writings in his possession; the said Lord, his Lady, nor any their Attendants, carrying amongst them all above forty pounds in money, and twenty pounds in Plate: The rest of the Noblemen with their Ladies and Servants, to march with their Horses, each of the said Lords attended with four men, their Horses and Arms; every such Nobleman carrying with him not above thirty pounds in money: Every Knight and Colonel to march with two men, their Horses and Arms; no such Knight or Colonel to carry with him above ten pounds in money: Every Lieutenant Colonel, Major and Captain of Horse, with one man, their Horses and Arms; no such Lieutenant Colonel, Major or Captain, carrying with him above five pounds in money: Every Captain of Foot, Esquire, Graduate, Preaching Minister, Gentlemen of quality, the Advocate and Secretary to the Army, every of them with his own Horse and Sword (the Ministers without Swords) none of them carrying with him above fifty shillings, and the Ministers to have all their own Manuscripts, Notes, and Evidences: Lieutenants, Cornets, ensigns, and other inferior Officers in Commission, on Foot with every man his Sword, and not above twenty shillings in money: All Troopers, foot-soldiers, Gunpowder Makers, cannoneers, and all other not before mentioned, to march without Horse or Arms. And that none of the said Persons before mentioned, shall in their march, after they are out of the City and Liberties thereof, be plundered, searched or molested.  
2. That all Women of what degree soever, that please to march out of the City, shall have all their Apparel with them; and such Officers Wives, whose Husbands are Prisoners or absent, may carry such sums of money with them, as are allowed by these Articles to▪ Commanders, Officers, and Gentlemen of their husband's qualities and no more.  
3. That none of the Commanders, Officers or soldiers, or any other at or before their marching out of the City, Castle or Fort, do injure or plunder the Person or Goods of any▪ nor carry any thing away out of the said City, Castle or Fort, but what is their own and hereby allowed.  
4. That all Citizens and others now residing within the City, shall be saved and secured in their Persons, and their Goods and Estates within the City and Liberties thereof, preserved and kept from the plunder and violence of the soldiers, and have the like freedom of Trade, as other Cities and Towns under the Parliaments protection have, and such immunities as they of right aught to have. And that every such Merchant, and Tradesman of Chester, as shall desire to go into North-Wales, to look after his Goods, shall have a pass to go thither, and return back again; he first giving security, that (during his absence) he will do no act to the prejudice of the Parliament: And that no such person shall at any time without Licence carry more moneys with him, then sufficient to defray the charges of his journey. And that all Citizens and other Inhabitants, who shall now or hereafter desire to march forth of the City of Chester, and not act any thing against the Parliament, his, or their Wives, or Families, to have the benefit and privilege of Inhabitants.  
5. That such Officers and soldiers as shall be left sick, or wounded within the City of Chester, or the Castle, or Fort thereof, shall have liberty to stay until their recovery, and then have Passes to Conway, or any of the King's Garrisons not blocked up: In the mean time to be provided for.  
6. That the said Lord Byron, Noblemen, Commanders, Gentlemen, Officers and soldiers, and all others that shall march out of the Town, shall have liberty to march to Conway, and five days are allowed them to march thither with a Convoy of two hundred Horse; the Welsh Officers and soldiers to have liberty to go to their own homes, all of them to have free Quarter in their march, and twelve carriages (if they shall have occasion to use so many) which carriages are to be returned on the sixth day, and that Passes be given them for their safe return to Chester, and that they be secured until they return thither.  
7. That no soldier in his march shall be inveigled or enticed from his Colours or Command, with any promise or inducement whatsoever.  
8. That all such Persons, Citizens, or others, who have Families in Chester, and are now in places remote thence, shall have the like benefit of these Articles, as those who are now resident in the City.  
9 That the Friends of the Earls of Derby and Leitchfield, or of any of those whose dead Bodies are not yet interred in Chester, shall have two months' time to fetch them thence, whither they please; provided, that none of them come attended with above twenty horse.  
10. That no Church within the City, or Evidences, or Writings, belonging to the same, shall be defaced.  
11. That such Irish as were born of Irish Parents, and have taken part with the Rebels in Ireland, and now in the City, shall be prisoners.  
12. That all those Horses and Arms belonging to those that march out, and not by these Articles allowed to be taken and carried out of the City (except such Horses as are the proper Goods of the Citizens and Inhabitants that shall remain in the City) before the delivery of the same be brought, the Horses into the Castle Court, and the Arms in to the shirehall, where Officers shall be appointed to receive them.  
13. That in consideration hereof, the said City and Castle without any slighting or defacing thereof, with all the Ordnance, arms, Ammunition, and all other furniture and Provisions of war therein whatsoever, except what is allowed to be carried away, and all the Records in the Castle, without diminution, embezzling or defacing, be delivered to the said Sir William Brereton or such as he shall appoint for the use of King and Parliament upon Tuesday next being the third of this instant February 1645. by ten of the cloak in the forenoon.  
14. That the Fort with all the Ordnance, arms Ammunition and Provision therein, of what sort soever, not formally granted or allowed of, upon the signing of these Articles be delivered to Sir William Brereton, or such as he shall appoint.  
15. That upon Signing of these Articles all Prisoners in the City, Castle, and Fort, that have been in arms for the Parliament, or imprisoned for adhering thereunto, shall immediately be set at Liberty.  
16. That the Convoy shall not receive any injury in their going or coming back, and shall have three days allowed for their return.  
17. That if any Person concerned in any of these Articles shall violate any part of them, such Person shall lose the benefit of all the said Articles.  
18. That upon the Signinig of these Articles, sufficient Hostages, such as shall be approved of, be given for the performance of the said Articles.  
Signed by us the Commissioners appointed on the behalf of the right Honourable the Lord Byron. 

Edmund Verney.  
John Robinson.  
Thomas Cholmondeley.  
Peter Griffith.  
Henry Legh.  
Thomas Throppe.  
Christopher Blease.  
William Jnce.  
John Werden.  
John Johnson.  
Edward Moreton.  
Thomas Bridge.   What is done by the Commissioners is confirmed by John Byron.   

Chester's Enlargement after three years' bondage. Or, A Compendious Narration of the reducing of Chester and Beston Castle, with the memorable occurrences conducing thereunto.  
THe City of Chester is a strong Prize in itself, anciently such by the high and broad Walls, with many Towers and bulwarks flankering the same, and since these troubles fortified by more than ordinary Mud-walls securing the Suburbs: and to complete the whole, the river Dee (in some measure Navigable) secures it on the West and South, which swells so broad and high in the tide, that no forces by Land can restrain relief by Sea.  
The situation likewise makes it most advantageous to the possessors, it being the key of Ireland, and a tye to unite North-Wales to Lancashire by a small neck of land in Cheshire, five miles over, the Rivers on both sides foardable.  
This city ever since the beginning of these troubles (Perfidiously surprised by the Commissioners of Array, in time of Truce) was kept for the King, esteemed the masterpiece of these parts of the kingdom, and in some measure accordingly looked upon by the Parliament, whence it came to pass that much time and Treasure was expended by the prudent Commander Sir William Brereton for the reducing of it.  
More than two years agone it was first attempted, but the work not well managed (the Militia being then in its infancy) it proved abortive. The enemy perceiving what they might expect in time, endeavoured their utmost, by art and industry to make it impregnable.  
Sir William Brereton perceiving that work too difficult, betook himself to another design, the reducing of Boston Castle, a piece of such annoyance and charge to the Country, that it will not be impertinent to give a brief account of the fortifying, losing, and regaining of it, but the work of this piece, and the City, did at all times so mutually interfare, that they must be twisted in the history.  
At the beginning of these wars, and many years before, this piece was no more than the skeleton, or bare Anatomy of a Castle, Sir William Brereton prizing it by the situation, caused the Breaches to be made up with mud-walls, the Well of the outer Ward to be cleansed, and a few rooms erected, the old Walls being the greatest part of the fabric; a captain or two being wearied out of the charge of such a Prison, it was committed to captain Steel, (a rough-heawn man, no soldier) whose care was more to see it repaired, victualled, and to live quietly there, than the safe custody of it. After it was well stored with provision, the Army out of Ireland, with the accession of other Forces, under the command of Sir John Byron▪ drew into Cheshire: Steele had as sufficient notice of his danger, as we of his negligence: the enemy suddenly surprised the inner Ward, where was nothing but stones, and a good prospect, he by his sloth having lost that part, out of cowardice gave up the other without delay: his reward was death, upon the sentence of a counsel of war, ours, the loss of the country, and the shaking of the whole County for the regaining of it, which the enemy kept in possession, about the space of two years.  
In December 1644. Sir William Brereton with the Forces of Cheshire and Auxiliaries of the Counties of Lancaster, York, Darby, Stafford, Warwick's, and Mountgomerie, a very considerable army, designed the reducing of Chester and this Castle, began to beleaguer the Castle by fortifying Beston house, half a mile from it, and by some guards of Horse and Foot in adjacent places. The enemy from Holt Castle falling upon our Quarters, caused us to quarter a strong party in Farne, by which we restrained the incursions from that Castle. Then the enemy from Chester fell upon our Quarters at Aldford▪ which occasioned us to bring the greatest part of the army to straightened Chester, in the month of February Christleton being the head quarter (about a mile from Chester) was secured from Horse by slight mud-walls, by this means the City was straightened on this side the River: At this time (holding correspondence with some in the town) we attempted a surprisal, but (for aught we can learn) were drawn on by a subtle wile of the enemy, yet brought off without loss by divine providence.  
One memorable achievement fell out in thetime of this Leaguer; the enemy from Chester with a body of fifteen hundred Horse and foot, endeavoured the surprisal of Christleton, whiles they were at dinner, after notice of their approach by the sentry on the steeple, in a quarter of an hour's space, colonel Jones drew up the Horse, and adjutant Louthiane seven hundred foot, the enemy laid a strong Ambuscado of above three hundred foot in the hedges, the Body of their Horse advanced towards their foot in a fair broad Lane near Boughton, colonel Jones with his own Troop, and Major Sankey with his, charged through their Ambuscado, which so terrified the Enemy that many of them cast down their arms, than they routed their Horse, against whom the City shut their Gates, lest by their retreat they should lose all their foot, Adjutant Louthian divided his foot, and drew them into the fields to fall on the enemy's foot on both sides the lane, whom he utterly routed, chasing them within Musket shot of their own works. Our Horse being but few not seconded by the Reserve, the enemy's Horse many, and compelled by the Citizens to face about, we were necessitated to drive away what prisoners we could with safety, and whom we could not bring off we cut and slashed miserably, which caused many to supplicate themselves prisoners, that they might escape wounds, many escaped from us down a steep Hill by the river, others got into boggy places. The success was good▪ we took colonel Werden▪ lieutenant colonel vain, six captains, twenty more Officers by Commission, one hundred and eighty other Officers and soldiers, slew but few, wounded very many, to the great amazement of the Citizens, who vowed they would never come out again, we lost one on the ground, three died of their wounds, about twenty wounded, Major Sankey sore wounded, but not dangerously, colonel Jones slightly wounded, and Captain Blackwall taken prisoner.  
On Easter eve we blocked up the City on the Welsh side also, for the space of six weckes, adjutant Louthiane, who quartered in Hawarden blocked up the Castle, drew his Trenches within a stones cast of it, and so far advance the work by undermining and battery, that in all probability▪ a few days had set us in possession of it, others quartered in all the towns and Houses nearer Chester, to the repressing of markets, but not restraining of relief, for both sides were in some measure open to intelligence, and some provision, specially the Cheshire side. Our hopes of success were great, but the time of mercy for so▪ high a favour was▪ not yet come; Our eyes were so fixed on the vast body of an army, being the cream and gallantry of all the adjacent Counties, that God would not eclipse his own glory, lest it should be said man had done it. For upon the approach of Prince Maurice with a far less force, we quit that side of the river, leaving the City open to Wales, and upon Prince Rupert's advance towards him, with accession of Force, we quit both the Leaguers, and having strengthened the Garrisons, drew to the further side of Cheshire, remotest from danger.  
This proved fatal to the Country, for the enemy at Holte burned faun, Chester burned Christleton, having before upon our approach burned great Boughton, they of Beston Castle burnt Beston hall, and Tilston house, two goodly mansions, and required seventeen weeks' arrears of the Country (which was paid) according to the time we had blocked up the Castle, in which time we lost much blood, both in Wales and at Beston, spent much Treasure, and almost wasted the Country on both sides the river.  
The enemy encouraged hereby issued out of Chester with three hundred foot and one hundred and twenty horse (the design not yet known to us) passed near Tarvin, so through Barrow, and accidentally fell upon Captain Gleggs quarters at Helseby, took him, all his troop, and some Country men prisoners, Marched towards Beston, intending to pass home by Holte: Upon intelligence, Tarvin sent out, under the Command of lieutenant colonel Venables two hundred horse (most of which by special providence happened to be there at that time) and one hundred and ninety foot, these hasted towards the enemy, whom they encountered in Eton town, rescued Captain Glegg, all his men, the Country men, and some of his Horse, slew seven, many escaped by counterfeiting themselves dead, took three Captains, many Officers two hundred and twenty soldiers, and all their plunder, lost not a man on the ground, but four died of their wounds not long after.  
After this Sir William Brereton, by an Ordinance, was called up to the Parliament; the transaction of the civil affairs of the County, were committed to seven trusties, and the Deputy lieutenants, the Military to colonel Jones and adjut. Louthiane, men of such known worth, that they need no Character of honour from this pen.  
These two soldiers laid the foundation to the work according to their own principles. First they endeavoured to appease the soldiers who were desperately mutinous, and the Horse on their march to leave the County for want of pay, and because of their deep arrears, this the Gentlemen performed by fair language, a months pay in hand (borrowed and out of their own purses) and by deep engagements for a constant monthly pay, than they put in execution the new model, by which the soldiers were reduced to such order that they passed muster every night upon the Parade, and all that came not daily upon duty lost their pay. The Country were as sensible of their own happiness, that they paid to none, but those that served, and that all free quarter to the foot was taken off.  
Their first service was for Leicestershire, colonel Jones went out with five hundred Horse and dragoons, adjutant Louthiane with a considerable body of foot, as far as Bakewell, the Horse were Commanded to Darby to join with Sir John Gell, who so retarded the Forces under his Command that they came short of the Battle at Nasby, to which service they were designed, yet advancing afterwards to Leicester, were very serviceable for the reducing of that town, till the work was perfected.  
The first design upon their return, was the siege of Beston Castle, by their own Forces only: to make the work sure (which formerly proved abortive) they erected a strong Fort within musket shot of the Castle, before the Gate, finished it in seven days, built a convenient house in it, which they stored with provision and ammunition, afterwards made a Counterskerfe, hereby all hope of releise to the Castle was utterly cut off, and they enabled to draw off the greatest part of their Force, when called thereto, by an invading enemy (which fell out twice) or for the carrying on of any design, by which means unexpectedly they surprised the suburbs of Chester. God so far smiled upon this enterprise, that in all the dangerous work of the Fort, we lost not a man, nor a drop of Blood, though perpetually a fair mark to a violent enemy.  
This work so far advancr, their thoughts were upon Chester, though it seemed a design almost impossible in the judgement of man, for all visible means was gone, the Commander in chief to the Parliament all the Auxiliaries dispersed to their own Countries, and we a small despised in considerable Force, not only engaged in the Leaguer of Beston, but hard put to it by the incursions of Holte Castle (a bad neighbour) besides other Forces out of Wales and Chester, daily infesting some part of the County, but laying to heart the reproach cast on us by some of our pretended friends, as if all our work were to lie idle in the Leaguer, and considering it was all one with God to work with many or few, we resolved to storm the city.  
But whiles we were intent upon this, two rubs fell in the way, the King with some force drew towards Namptwich intending for the North, which caused us to draw off the Foot, to secure the Garrisons from surprisal, and colonel Jones with the Horse, and a small party of Foot undertook the charge of Beston. The King drawing off from those parts inclined his course doubtfully, whether for Darby, or the lower parts of Cheshire, intending to fall into the North, and so to join with Mountresse, which counterchanged our course, for Adjutant Louthiane with the Foot, and a small party of Horse undertook the Leaguer of Beston, colonel Jones with four hundred Horse and dragoons went into the field, to save the country (in the lower parts of Cheshire) from spoil, to fall upon the rear of the enemy, and to fight if occasion should require, having an accession of foot in the skirts of the county. In this expedition he was drawn by authority to a longer march than was intended, expecting to be engaged towards Doncaster or Newarke, where the Scots and the adjacent Countries made up a very puissant Army. Upon his return preparation was again made for the intended enterprise upon the City, but was retarded a few weeks by want of pay for the army, and by the intelligence of the King drawing this way (being taken off his expedition for the North) which made us stand on our guard, that we might not lose the ground we had gained at Beston.  
That cloud dispelled, they fixed upon a day for this so great a work, and that it might be done without noise, they made use only of their own strength, being about five hundred Horse, two hundred dragoons, and seven hundred Foot, and they that were privy to the design took an oath of secrecy.  
On Friday September 19 we drew off the Leaguer at Beston towards Chester, but out of the common road, that we might make no noise in the country, nor the beleaguered Castle give any signal of forces abroad: after a tedious march all night, we stormed the Suburbs of the city by break of day, were not discovered till we attempted the Work, the sentinel shot at our men, asked if we had brought our dear brethren (meaning the Scots) with us, to take the city: we multiplied not words, but fell to the work, captain Gymbert was the first that entered, his Ladder being to short, he lift up his man to the mount (Near the river side) from the top of it, his man drew him up by the hand, and then they cried, a town, a town, immediately they cleared that Mount, slew lieutenant Aldersey, the Captain e of the Watch, and put the rest, about six men to flight, than others set too their Ladders, possessed themselves of all the Mounts on that side the city, and with the instruments we brought with us, broke open the gates: then all the Horse entered, with the remainder of the Foot, with loud shouts, which utterly daunted the enemy. The next work was to take the bars, being the Fortification for the forest street, which was effected speedily, by entering at the back of some houses, not far from the gate, so we fell upon that guard in the rear, who fled in all haste into the City, that while our men opened the gate into the forest street, which we entered with a full body of Horse and Foot, and some so close pursued the Guard, that they were near entering the City with them. Master Major very difficultly got into the City, but made such haste, that he left the Sword and Mace at his house in the Suburbs.  
Thus possessed of the outworks, we set guards in all places, where the enemy might fall in upon us, posted Letters to the Gent. over all the County, also to Lancashire, Salop, and Staffordshire, signifying what God had done for us, desiring their assistance to the perfecting of this work, who neglecting all other engagements, hasted towards us, as if the work had been their own.  
The enemies first work was to fire the Suburbs, by their instruments lurking amongst us, some of which we slew, they burned Cow-lane, and St. John's lane: after that they burned up all the street without the North gate, to deprive us of all quarter, though many hundred Families of their party, and much provision were destroyed thereby.  
The next day after the storm, we brought in the artillery, prepared a battery that night, fell upon the work the next day, made a wide breach by the New gate, intending to storm the City at night: before which Master Major was writ to, by way of advice to prepare the City to a summons (which was peremptory) for the surrender of it, the Summons they would not read, because the form in the direction pleased them not, the answer returned by the Major, was to his wife in the Suburbs, that she might comfort her heart, for the King was within four miles for their relief. About seven a clock that night, we stormed the town in three or four places, some fought valiantly upon the tops of their Ladders, many of which proved too short: captain Finch with his firelocks entered the breach, beat off the enemy, but he, his lieutenant, and some others being wounded and carried off, they who were to second them were discouraged: so the work was suspended for that time.  
The City, apprehensive of their own danger, in that we followed the work so close, sent to the King, who gave them assurance of relief, drawing towards them with all speed, which caused us to send out some to seek out general Pointz, and to hasten him to our relief, which was seasonably effected, for he quartering at Whitchurch on Tuesday night, marched thence before midnight: about six a clock next morning, advanced wirhin three miles of Chester, near the King's army, before they knew of one another. Poyntz was upon Hatton Heath, divided from the Enemy by a short Lane, whom he charged with a forlorn hope, was very active in his own person, and many gallant Gentlemen with him, but being overpowered by the body of the Enemy, who were in a good posture upon the open field, they put him to a retreat, though their loss was judged near as great as his, but the wounding of colonel Greaves, colonel Bethel, and captain Cotton, gallant men, wrought no small distraction amongst them: both Armies continuing facing one another after the skirmish (a lane betwixt them) till about four a clock; by which time colonel Jones was sent from the Suburbs of Chester with five hundred Horse, and as many Foot, commanded by colonel John Boothe to the relief of Poyntz: the enemy in Chester perceiving that, sent about one thousand horse and foot upon the rear of colonel Jones, yet by two hundred Horse, and as many Foot, sent out of the Suburbs by Adjut. Louthaine, those were repelled and driven another way, so colonel Jones arrived safe to the field.  
The enemy in Chester perceiving so many gone out of the Suburbs, took the opportunity to assault the works, endeavouring to cast out such unwelcome neighbours, this they attempted in divers places, but were valiantly repulsed by Adjutant Louthaine, this was the second work of that day, wherein God appeared for us, making these the first fruits of a glorious ensuing victory.  
When the enemy perceived general Poyntz, and the Cheshire Forces about to join, they quit their ground, drew into a body, and set themselves in Batalia upon Rowton Moor, we mattialled ourselves likewise and joined battle between four and five a clock, the greatest burden lay upon the Cheshire Horse, because they were fresh for service, the rest much wearied with an incessant march and long fasting; colonel Jones encouraged his soldiers with such language, that he drew tears from their eyes, and vows from their mouths, that they would stick fast to him, whether in life or death, which they faithfully performed: the rest also buckled themselves to the service in hand, and to give both sides their due, they performed the work with as much valour and resolution as could be expected from men: But God owning his own cause, made the Parliament party victorious, who slew them with a great slaughter on the ground, and chased them over all the country.  
Some of their scattered party united themselves near Chester, and made head again; these were composed of those, who following colonel Jones in the rear, were driven toward bridge Trafford, and the escaped in the field, who were partly twisted in the Parliaments army, whiles they pursued the victory, and part of them driven before us: opportunity serving, they separated themselves, drew into a body, fell upon our pursuing Army, who suspected no danger, got ground of us, and put us to retreat, but more force coming up, we drove them under the Walls of the Suburbs, where the guards from the Walls made execution on them. The reversion of these, and the rest, were gleaned up over all the county, and in divers other Countries where they were scattered, so that God made it the most clear and full victory of any battle yet fought in the kingdom, for we slew about three hundred men on the ground, many were drowned, attempting to swim the river, we took above 1000 prisoners, besides what daily were gleaned up by country men and women, yea, by known Cavaliers. We took most of the Horse, to the great replenishing of the County, and our troops: amongst other considerable men, the Earl of Litchfield was slain. We lost not 30. men on the ground, the chiefest of those, captain Culm and Capt. Crant, and some few died of their wounds afterwards, the chief of them were, colonel Prince, and Captain Cotton, men much lamented.  
After this, necessity required some refreshing for general points his Army, he intended his quarters near to the City that night, and the next day to compass it on the other side the river, not only to distress the City, but to encompass the King in it, or pursue his lean reversion, if escaped thence. But two men of seeming quality (yet not discovered) told him as messengers from the Cheshire Gentlemen, that he was to take up his quarters at Northwich, by which plot they tired his army, and took him off his intended enterprise.  
The next Sabbath in the morning Sept. 27. General Poyntz with his own Army, and the accession of 1000 Lancashire and Cheshire foot, and 500 Cheshire horse, passed over the river to the Welsh side: the King was then at Denbigh, to whom Prince Maurice, with Sir Jacob Ashley joined themselves, to reinforce the broken Army, or bring the King off: But having a signal by fire from a steeple in Chester, of our passing over the River, the King, Prince Maurice, and that small force they had, fled by night to Chirke Castle; We quartered that night near Chester, on Monday night at Wrexham, endeavouring to inform ourselves of the King's motion, and to follow him as opportunity might serve. Upon Wednesday Octob. 1. the intelligence was, that the King marched towards Hereford, thereupon general Poyntz that day Marched after him from Wrexham to Elesmere, and colonel Jones towards Chester, to make good the Leaguer there.  
To hasten the work of reducing the City, we sent a Convoy for the great Guns at Stafford and Salop, by them to force a speedy entry, before the King could reinforce himself to return, Powder and Ball was altogether wanting for so great a service, but the Gentlemen of the County were so forward for the work, that they engaged themselves for four hundred pounds, by which we were furnished with Ammunition from Warrington: but such juggling there was to prevent the ball, and retard the Guns, and by subtle agents, that cannot endure the work should prosper in the hands of these instruments (who affect the cause, as they fancy the Leader) that we lost above a week for the effecting of this great design. Upon Monday Octob. 5. the City was so strictly begirt on both sides the River, that none could pass in or out for the guards, of which Sir John Byron the governor complained in his Letters to the Archbish. of York, and his brother, sent to them at Conway, but intercepted by us that day, the Powder and Ball being come, we fixed a battery on Tuesday night, on the Northside towards the River, and made a breast-work for musketeers on the Welsh side, which cleared a good part of the wall on the inside. On Wednesday we battered the bulwark next the North gate, even with the Wall; On Thursday the wall itself, close by the Goblen Tower, which proved so thick, and the Ball so brittle, that not much more than the battlements was beaten down: whiles the besieged endeavoured to make up the breach by packs, featherbeds, &c. and to line the Wall all along; Our Cannon on the Welsh side made great execution, swords, arms, legs, whole bodies were seen to fly in the ayte, cart loads of bodies drawn off, and the Horse in the rear driving up men and women to make up the breach. That night, a little before Sun-set we stormed the City upon the new breach, the old breach near the new gate, and by scaling betwixt the East gate, and the Fenix tower: the storm was very hot for near two hours together, some of ours carried it very stoutly, fighting in the breach, and on the tops of the ladders, had they been suitably seconded, the Town in all probability had been ours that night: In conclusion, we made good our retreat in the dark: we lost 27 men on the ground, of those, no Officers, but a sergeant and a corporal, about 60. wounded, amongst them lieutenant-colonel Venables, and captain Massy, brother to the renowned massy of Gloucester, but neither of them dangerously: the report from within the City is, that their loss was more than ours, amongst others, Sir William Manwaring was slain, an unlucky Knight, to fall the first time he came into the field, and a wall betwixt him and danger.  
Upon Saturday Octob. 18▪ the bridge of Boats (a very useful piece, uniting the Forces on both sides the River) was finished: the one end fixed within the works, the other guarded with a Fort, whence the line was intended to entrench the city on the Welsh side, to prevent all relief. The Monday after, we had a design upon Holt, in regard of the enemy drawn thither, reported to be 700. which endangered the relief of Beston, and the beating up of our quarters. Thereupon colonel Jones fellsuddenly upon Holt, with above 1000 horse and foot, who fell so unexpected on the enemy, that had the forlorn hope observed the command, to keep within Musket shot of the Body, in all probability, we had entered the Castle, before they had drawn up the Bridges; There we had a sharp skirmish with about 140 horse, and the Castle foot, (for that was all the strength that Fame had made 700.) upon whom we fell with such violence, that we beat them into the Castle ditch, made great execution on them in the fall, slew one Major, and many other soldiers, wounded very many▪ took lieutenant Coll. Byron, the Lord Byron's Brother, five more, and some good horses: our loss was two men slain three wounded, not mortally, others slightly wounded: fourteen of our forlorn hope taken, whose neglect of commands rendered them prisoners. By this achievement, we quite broke that Body, secured the Leaguer at Beston, and our own quarters.  
near about that time Major Sankey with a party of horse fell upon Hawarden town, which would not contribute to the Leaguer, laid an Ambuscado within pistol shot of the Castle, drew the rest about to the other end of the town, at the alarm given, the listed soldiers in the town and some others besides, hasted to the Castle, the ambuscado slew some, took 12. prisoners, fetched off 42. head of Cattle, 50. sheep of the governors▪ 14. Horse, and a bear, which roared upon the man that laid hold on him for a calf, none of ours either lost, or wounded, thenceforth the Town contributed, and we restored the Cattle, this became a good precedent to the Welsh, who above 20. miles off, follow their example.  
Upon Friday, and some days after our Cannon played on the enemy's mills, spoiled 3. of them, and battered the water Tower, by which water was conveyed into the whole City. At this time we had sure intelligence of the enemies advance towards us, whereupon the Commanders sped Letters to all the adjacent parts to hasten all the relief possible, that we might be enabled to make good the Leaguer, and give Battle to the enemy in the field, that so we might lose no ground.  
Hitherto the military affairs of this County were under the charge of Col. Jones & adju. Louthiane, who discharged that trust in all their undertakings, with as much prudence, resolution and gallantry, as could be expressed from men, whose endeavours God still crowned with happy success, and the work in their hands so far advanc'●, that Chester, unless relieved with an army, must necessarily yield up themselves, and Beston Castle gasping for every thing necessary but air and water.  
Upon Saturday October the twenty five Sir William Brereton came to Namptwich, appointed by the Parliament to Command in chief, to whom the Commanders from the Leaguer signified the enemy's design, and the preparation already made to entertain them. Sir William approving of that course, seconded their Letters, to draw in the Auxiliaries, who were very forward of themselves to promote this great design, in which they were all so much concerned.  
By this time the enemy in Wales were reported to be potent, to the great encouragement of the beleaguered City and Castle. Sir William Brereton, however summoned the Castle hoping their low condition might incline them to a parley, but they being confident of help at hand, by signals from the City, and adjacent Castles, sent back the drum in a most scornful and reproachful manner. Then Sir William sent away colonel Jones with fourteen hundred Horse and dragoons, and adjutant Louthiane with one thousand foot, to seek and dissipute the enemy reported to be about three thousand at Denbigh. October the twenty nine we marced to mould, the next day to Ruthen, and November the first to Denbigh, where the enemy being about one and twenty hundred Pedees' making up the number stayed for us, not knowing we were so many, we intended for Denbigh green, a fair piece of ground for a Battle, they intercepted our course, at a place called Whitechurch, a mile from Denbigh, where our forlorn hope was engaged, and fought courageously, till the Body came up, after which, though we got ground, yet could not the Horse pass through that strait lane, before which the enemy was marshalled in a body, therefore a competent part being left to keep that ground, the rest Marched in a compass near four miles, to form the Batalia upon Denbigh green, or if the enemy would not there fight, to compass them on both sides, which they perceiving, fell upon the party left to keep that pass, ours beat them off and got into open ground which caused them to fly to the Castle hill for shelter, there they rallied, and came down again, our foot with the Warwick and Darby Horse dispersed them again▪ drove them from under the Walls of the Castle, and put them to a total rout, whom the Horse pursued 8. miles, till the night forced them home, it is conjectured that we slew about 100 on the ground took above 300. many of which we lost in haste to get seasonably to the camp, and because we saw they were not worth the keeping. Sir William Vaughan their Commander escaped by a timely flight, advertising the townsmen to provide for themselves, who thereupon took Sanctuary in the Castle, burned a great part of the town, and attempted the firing of the whole, we took above 800. Horse, lost not a man on the field, or but one, and not 20 wounded.  
The Monday after this blessed achievement, we returned to the Leaguer at Chester, about 30. advancing, before the army came up in sight of the City, and wandering upon a vexatious marish ground, gave occasion to the enemy to think we were routed, whereupon, after a great shout given in the City, all the Horse and some foot sallied out upon our quarters next the Bridge, which caused a very sharp Skirmige of long continuance, in conclusion, we drove them in with some loss on our side, which warned us, not to be secure upon a victory, nor to neglect our guards. The main business of the Leaguer thenceforth was, to finish the Trenches on the Welchside the City, that went slowly on for want of money, which occasioned the enemy out of the town to take their advantages to fall upon our Guards, which put us to almost daily Skirmishing, and some loss.  
Upon Friday November 14. after 18. weeks' siege the beleaguered Castle of Beston was brought to such extremities for want of provision, that their stout hearts came down to beat a parley, Sir William Brereton appointed colonel Croxton the governor of Namptwich to treat with them, who took to his assistance lieutenant colonel Coote, they delivered up the Castle the next Lord's day upon these conditions: To march out every man armed, colours flying, drums beating, Matches light, a proportion of powder and ball, all their proper goods to be carried with them, which laded two wanes, a Convoy to guard them to Flint Castle, as many as pleased to live quietly at their own homes, and so far trusted, that no hostage was left to secure the return of the Convoy, they were brought so low that they had eaten their cats, and had not provision for that night, High conditions for a most bloody, insolent country-wasting enemy, and them brought to such a starved condition. Their march being on the Sabbath, occasioned the breach of that holy rest to many in the Country, who attended their first opportunity to inquire after their plundered goods, stored up in that Cage of violence, and den of thieves.  
The next Wednesday after Sir William Brereton summoned the City in hope that their wants within, and loss of Beston, might incline them to a parley, after full deliberation on the summons, they returned an high scornful, and contemptuous answer, playing upon, and jeering at the most persuasive a rguments used for the surrender of the City: that taking no better effect, he sent to them once more by their own Trumpet, that since they despised such favour tendered, their blood must rest on their own heads.  
On Tuesday night November 9 about midnight, the enemy in the City had a great design to fire our bridge of boats, and to cut off the Leaguer guards on the welchside to the effecting thereof, they sent 2. Boats carried down with the tide, laden with Tallow, Pitch, and other combustible matter, with a frame of wood on the top of them, on which were fixed double charged Carbines, and other shorter pieces, to make execution on them that sought to quench the fire; the one of these fired hard by the Bridge they intended to burn, made no execution on it, or on any person, but was seized on by our men, and the fire quenched, the other fired in the mid way, betwixt their Bridge and ours, consumed itself, without hurt to any. To put us to the greater distraction, they sallied out Horse and foot at the same time upon the Guards ne'er the Bridge, and they of Holt Castle alarum'd our quarters at Pulford, thinking thereby to work such distraction, that one Guard might not relieve an other, if their design should take, but this attempt proved destructive to themselves, for after an hot dispute, we beat them in, wounded many, slew 12. by the confession of their own party, which put them to great distractions within the City, when that which promised relief, proved their loss. In all that service we lost not a man, nor a drop of blood that we know of.  
December 4. a great packet of Letters was intercepted by our guards, sent out of the City by a fit agent, signifying to their own party their low condition with desire of relief. The main business was locked up in Characters, and they had the key, the report of their condition was referred to the Messenger, who chose rather to run all hazards, than confess and discover his Message. Being sent prisoner for Tarvin behind one of our men, he took the opportunity to dismount himself on the new bridge, leapt into the water, in hope to escape into the City by swyming, but sunk in the mid way, and was drowned; whom, though he escaped martial justice, vengeance would not suffer to live.  
Now came in the happy tidings of the surrender of Latham, upon very honourable conditions, to colonel John Booth, who thereupon tendered the further assistance of Lancashire, for the service of this Leaguer, which tender was as opportune, as courteous, for this piece being so considerable, the enemy commanded by Sir William Vaughan drew into a posture near Bridgenorth for the relief of it: they advanced into Shropshire with about 2000 Horse and foot, fell upon Rockadine Church, where the Parliament had a small Garrison, which beat them off with loss, this caused Sir William Brereton to prepare seasonably to break that design, to the carryng on of which, Lancashire supplied us with 13. Troops, and 300. Foot. Upon the Sabbath day December 21. we drew off all we could spare from the Leaguer, and Marched that day to Whitchurch the army joined was about 1500. Horse and 1500. Foot, there we stayed till Friday, which was a little respiration to this wasted County, and so far wrought upon the enemy, that we heard no more of them, than a retreat towards Kiddermuster. In that time the enemy issued out of Chester and made an escape with 18. Horse, and the Lord Saint Paul, the way was open for their passage, because no Trenches were cut on the welchside to interrupt them in their march, yet the Guard took lieutenant colonel Needeham, and 3. more. Upon Friday, Dec. 26. the violence of the Spring tide was such, that carrying up a great weight of Ice, it broke the new Bridge made of Boats; the beleaguered were much encouraged hereby, made use of the present opportunity for some relief, before we could repair that broken piece. On Saturday night the Enemy in Wales with about 150 horse of the L. Byron's and others joined with his, Marched beside our guards into the City, with some small relief of Wheat, Oatmeal, pies, and Moneys for the Welsh soldiers, which was collected for them towards Conway. The next morning, with the assistance of Chester horse, and about 600 foot, they forced their passage through the guards to Hawarden castle, with the loss of a Cornet, a Corporal, and one common soldier taken by the guard.  
Col: Jones perceiving the danger might ensue to the Leaguer on the Welsh side by this unhappy accident of the Bridge broken, hasted that day over the Foard with 600 horse, 100 Dragoons, and appointed 100 foot to march after him, to dissipate that party, which was preparing relief for the City, and to ease these oppressed parts of the burden of free quarter; that night we quartered at Mould, then coasted about the country near Ridley, Denbigh and ruthéns, and returned to the Leaguer upon Saturday: In all the march we found the country well-affected to us, not wanting in courteous entertainment, rejoicing in our success, contributing freely to the relief of the Leaguer, tendering their assistance as opportunity might serve, for reducing of the country: A people rather to be pitied for their ignorance (whose Leaders have taught them to err) then spoiled for their malignity.  
Col: Jones with the Cheshire and Darbyshire horse, upon their return took up their Leaguer quarters close by Hawarden castle, and Col: Massey with about 400 foot in Hawarden town, which (though the service was dangerous, and requiring much duty) proved very advantageous for the Intercepting of all relief that might come from those parts of Wales to the City: The Enemy perceiving our posture, utterly despaired of sending relief by land, and applied themselves to attempt that design by water, for the effecting whereof they fraught a Vessel with a good quantity of Wheat, Bacon, beef, and such like provision, not doubting but the Wind, Tide and their Oars, might secure them to pass our Boats, when the swelling River made the course passable besides the Channel: To the preventing of which, nothing was left unattempted that might conduce to the guarding of the River.  
The beleaguered seeing their desperate condition, some from within the City assured us, that they were mindful to parley, and that upon Summons they would▪ undoubtedly deliver it up, such care there was to preserve the City from plunder, and to save the lives of many in a starving condition, that not standing upon a punctilio of honour, where there was a probability of reducing a piece of such consequence, it was agreed by a council of war, that the City once more should be summoned.  
The Summons was this.  
Gent. Experience tells you upon what foundation your hopes of relief were grounded but that you may see the tender care of the preservation of the City, the lives and estates of the Inhabitants, Once more i Summon you to deliver the City, Castle, and Fort into my hands, for the use of King and Parliament.  
Your servant William Brereton. Chester suburbs 7. Jan. 1645.  
For the Major of Chester and the Lord Byron.  
This summons was dated the seventh and sent away the eighth by a Trumpet, whom they admitted to the Bridge, and no further, received the summons and returned this answer.  
I have received your summons, to which in convenient time i shall return an answer by a Messenger of mine own.  
Your servant John Byron. Chester 8. Jan, 1645.  
They defered the answer till Monday January 12. which caused Sir William Brereton to send to them again, requiring an answer of the summons.  
Whiles our Trumpet went with that Message, their drum brought in this answer, so much expected.  
We are not convinced by experience of the groundless foundation of our hopes of relief, neither (God be thanked) is our conditionsuch, as to precipitate us to a prejudicial treaty however if within twelve days we be not assured of relief, by a Gentleman & Citizen, whom we shall send for the purpose, with a Trumpet of ours, and a pass from you, we shall then be content to enter into a Treaty upon honourable and soldier like conditions, remaining.  
John Byron. Charles Walley Major for himself and brethren. Chester Jan: 12. 1645.  
To which answer Sir William Brereton thus reolyed.  
The paper sent by your drum was no satisfactory answer, neither will I assent to your desires in it. If you return not a more positive answer by tomorrow at ten a clock, expect no further parley.  
Your servant William Brereton. Chester Suburbs Jan. 12. 1645.  
To this no answer was returned the next day, which rendered the Treaty as broken off, and occasioned us to endeavour the further blocking up of all passages for relief of the City. Upon Wednesday January. 14. a party of Horse and foot were sent to quarter in Holte, thereby that Castle was blocked up, which was accustomed to range abroad daily into Cheshire, to the great prejudice of that wasted County, which also proved a postern, by which some small relief many nights was sent into the City. The charge of this work was undertaken by general Mytton, who came so unexpected upon the town that he took 32. Horses, and 3. persons Prisoners: but the next day, being oversecure in their quarters, about 14. were surprised by the enemy, out of the Castle. This blocking up of the two neighbour Castles rendered to the enemy their condition desperate of any considerable relief, unless by a potent army.  
The enemy perceiving their pretences slighted, and pinched with their own necessities, applied themselves to seek for a parley, by this Letter sent to Sir William Brereton.  
Sir, at the entreaty of us the Major, Noblemen, Gent. Alderman and Citizens of Chester, the Lord Byron our governor (in whom the sole power of Treaty rests) is pleased to give way to a Treaty upon honourable conditions, to which if you assent, Commissioners to that purpose may be agreed upon by both sides: expecting your answer I rest.  
Your servants Charles Walley Major, Robers Tatton vic. Comes. Chester. 15. Jan 1645.  
To which Sir William Brereton returned this answer.  
When I have so long considered of an answer to your Letter, as you the Major and the Lord Byron took time to answer my summons, you shall hear from me by a Messenger of mine own: in the mean time I rest.  
Your servant William Brereton. Chester suburbs 15. Ian. 1645  
To the Major of Chester and Robert Tatton Esquire.  
The day after (notwithstanding) this Letter was sent into the City.  
Gent. We have prevailed with Sir William Brereton to give us leave to return this answer to your last Letter, that notwithstanding your former rejection of fair & honourable conditions, and the expense of time and blood, (which hath been occasioned by your obstinacy) might justly provoke him to refuse any further treaty, yet that it may appear he retains his wonted desires of the preservation of the City, and the lives and estates of the inhabitants, if your governor (in whom you say lies the full power to treat) send out reasonable Propositions, betwixt this and Monday morning, he will take them into consideration, and return such answer as may stand with honour and justice, and may prevent the destruction of this ancient City, which is desired by.  
Your servants 

Robert Duckenfield.  
James Louthiane.   Chester Suburbs 16. Jan. 1645.  
For the Major of Chester and Robert Tatton Esquire.  
To which Letter this answer was returned.  
Gent. We have acquainted the Lord Byron with your Letter to us directed, who is pleased to promise, that within the time therein limited, a full answer shall be thereto returned, we remain.  
Your servants 

Charles Walley.  
Robert Tatton. Vic. Com.   Chester. 17. Jan. 1645.  
For colonel Duckenfield and adjutant general Louthiane.  
Upon Monday about noon, they sent a long Letter without the propositions expected, the contents whereof was, to excuse their not sending in of propositions for want of time fully to deliberate upon things of so great importance. Also they nominated 12. men for Commissioners, consisting of the Gentry, soldiery, Citizens, and Clergy, because all these had their share in the treaty, desiring Sir William also to nominate persons of that number and quality on his part, and to design a place where they might treat. Sir William took it not well, that they sent not the propositions, as was expected, and approved not of so great a number of Commissioners; therefore he required their propositions speedily, or to expect no further treaty, the next day they sent again signifying, their propositions were ready, but they would not send them by drum or Trumpet, but by Commissioners, which they desired might be agreed upon, the place designed, and their persons protected. Answer was made to the Lord Byron, that if they sent propositions into the suburbs, by two persons of their choice, they should have safe conduct. Accordingly they sent 36. propositions upon Thursday January 22. by Sir Edmund Verney and Major Thropp, which were so extreme high, that they were ridiculous, not fit to burden the press, or to read, otherwise than to make sport. Sir William then tendered to them his own propositions, which they utterly refused to take, because they had no such Commission.  
Hereupon Sir William caused divers papers to be dispersed upon the walls that night, which the sentries took in from our soldiers, in which he signified their unreasonable Demands in their propositions, and that they refused to take with them his propositions in which he sought their good, and preservation of the City, not doubting but this would work a mutiny, and force them to a parley in a more humble way.  
Their extremities caused them to pretend a desire to continue the parley, whiles new hopes of relief by late intelligence quickened their drooping spirits to more than ordinary acclamations. For, upon Friday January 23. they reported to our Guards their great confidence of relief by an army out of Ireland, already landed, and others to be assistant to them in Wales, for joy whereof they shot off their Guns, and gave a great shout upon the Walls, and within the City, which they doubted not would prove effectual to animate the gasping Citizens, and to work on us to allow them better conditions.  
But to clear all on our part, Gen. Mytton with 800. Horse and 200. Foot and dragoons. January 25. marched into Wales, quartered that night in Ruthen, endeavouring to find out and dissipate that body of the enemy, what ever it might prove, under the command of the Lord Saint Paul. colonel Jones the day after sent a party towards Ruthland Castle, hoping thereby to enclose the enemy, or interrupt them in the way, if they attempted the relief of Chester, whiles so great a party of ours was abroad in the Country. The enemy not appearing, the party sent out by colonel Jones made a speedy return with a booty of Horse taken from the enemy, who had secured them in Ruthland, and good store of Catle, for restitution of which the Country there paid their arrears of contribution for the Leaguer. But Gen. Mytton continued in Ruthen, having great hopes of the Castle, destitute of the governor, Ammunition and fuel.  
This while the Citizens were more sensible of their desperate condition, than the Commanders, resolved to feed no longer upon lies, which had brought them a long time to feed upon horesslesh so they forced the Commissioners to treat with us, and to make the best conclusion they could but however to conclude, Upon Friday January 30. their 12. Commissioners were admitted into the forest street, which sent the same number of able men to join with them they continued late that night in debating the propositions but the work drew not towards a period. Our Commissioners agreed, that unless they came the next day by 12. a clock and ended by 6. the treaty should cease: they desired to defer it till Monday, which would not be admitted, so they all met upon Saturday, continued the treaty all night, and all the next day. Our Commissioners held them so close to it, that they yielded to very hard conditions, which because they will be public, and larger than will suit to this short narration, shall not burden this paper.  
Betwixt ten and eleven at night they possessed us of the royal Fort, we having first sent Col. Bowyer, and Col. massy, hostages to Hawarden Castle, to secure them of our fidelity in making good the Conditions on our part: upon Tuesday we were possessed of the city and Castle, by which the Almighty (who ever-owned our undertakings) finished the great work of reducing this afflicted County, almost spent under the incessant travel of a three years' war. Our hopes are, that this respiration to us, will be the first fruits of mercy to North-wales, carrying with it a strong influence, for the reducing of the many Castles, such bad neighbours to us, and destructive to that Country, which now seem as ripe figs that fall into the mouth of the eater.   

The present posture of Cheshire and North-wales.  
THe reducing of Chester hath better lessoned the Commissioners of Array, than all the King's Papers, they begin to inquire after the Covenant, and suspect their former oaths unwarrantable▪ the canonical prophecy will be made good: the rest were affrighttd and gave glory to the God of heaven. Apoc. 11.  
Holt, Hawarden and Ruthen Castle, are blocked up and straightly begirt by general Mytton, with the assistance of the Cheshire forces: Hawarden being batterable will be necessitate to make a timely surrender.  
The Bishops and great men are quiting Conway, not trusting to a strong town destitute of releise, this must needs put Denbigh to a stand, as destitute to be a prison in a reduced Country.  
Cheshire (who can as well cease to live, as to be out of action) will not be wanting to general Mytton, and the Salopians for the reducing of Chirke Castle, and high Archall, or to march to Bridgenorth.  
A full harvest will fall out in the spring, if our sins blast not these designs: we want no reapers with sharp sickles to cut down the harvest and vintage so fully dried, if the stronger forces above watch the Mideanites, who were accustomed to put the sickles into our labours, or to devour them, when prepared to our mouths.  
Cheshire who hath indefatigably stuck to the work desires the unsupportable burden of the many useless Garrisons may be removed from their shoulders, else, whiles secured of their lives, they are spoilt of their livelihood, and disabled to contribute to the work abroad.  
Many great benefices now vacant are undisposed, good Ministers want means, and like Noah's, Dove find no rest for the soles of their feet, but in worse case, for they have no ark to return too, but where the provission is spent, and was never competent, it makes well for them who are very busy in collecting Churches, and the Idol shepherds are not without hopes of return to their own Cures, before they be disposed of. But there is one who sits at stern, whose zeal will manage the work, that Christ may reign.   

That worthless man may derogate nothing from the all working God, we may render this account of heaven's influence upon our designs, which gave them life.  

Remarkable providences concerning the Battle at Rowton Moor.  
1. THat general points came so seasonably for the Battle, whereas two days before, we could not learn by any intelligence where that army was. As birds flying God saves Jerusalem, and to those that fear his name, the sun of righteousness artseth with healing in his wings.  
2, A great part of general points army, and those the best Regiments, were not come up to the service, in regard of his speedy march. It's all one with God to save with many or few. The less of man the more of God.  
3. No part of the army but was first brought through the fire, before God would crown them with victory. General points had a stormy morning, and a Cloudy day, first beaten off, whiles attempting the work, than all the day kept under a sad apprehension of further evil. Colonel Jon●s Marched on the body of the enemy, and a strong party in his rear: the instruments to carry on the work were chosen in the furnace of afflction.  
4. Our army was interlynd with the enemy, who broke through the weaker part of the left hand of our body, so that whiles we pursued the victory, they were mixed and twisted amongst us, both parties knew it, yet they struck not at any of ours, though we chased and beat down those that were before us. It was in their power to hurt us, but God gave Laban a charge concerning his servant Jacob.  
5. Whiles they sought a place to secure themselves, they fell under our Walls, where divers perished. So God struck the Syrians with blindness, who went into Samaria, whiles they sought Dothan. Others fled into the river in hopes to escape, where very many perished. God hath more instruments than the sword to over power his enemies. The river Kishan swept them away.   

Providences concerning the Battle at Denbigh.  
1. THe Foundation to their ruin was their own lies: they reporting themselves to be many, drew us out to seek them speedily, the Country voting us few, caused them to stay for us: Their publishing of lies prepared them to destruction, and their trusting in a lie slew them: He shall sweep away the refuge of lies.  
2. While our body was entire we could not break in upon them, but trifled out the time, when reduct to a small part that did the work. When Gideon's many thousands are sent away 300. beat the Mideanites. God seldom fights with many.  
3. We slew about 100 of theirs, they not a man of ours on the ground. An hundred slain for none, it is as good as the promise, one shall chase an hundred.  
4. The summer was lengthened beyond natures ordinary course, for the effecting of these achievements, the like this age hath not known, but so soon as the serene heavens had smyld us success, the chyding winds, with blustering storms, threatened the laden soldiers into their winter quarters. He that lengthened the day to Josua for the conquest of Canaan, extended this summer for the spoiling of Babylon. Though we look not for miracles, we have a God that works wonders.   

Providences concerning the Storming and Beleaguring of Chester.  
1. WHiles with many thousands and vast expenses, the work was attempted, the endeavours were unsuccessful: but when reduced to a small number, and that under a double engagement, the work was done beyond expectation, not by might, nor by power.  
2. God prepared a way to the work, by giving first into our hands the chief actors of our ruin▪, colonel Marrow, colonel Werden, Major Philips and Captain Monday: when their chariot wheels were taken off▪ they drove slowly.  
3. The Gentlemen of the County were so active on their part and so semented with the Commanders in the bond of dear affection, that it seemed to us the first fruits of an harvest of peace for the whole County.  
4. Though the darkness, and the way unknown, rendered the surprisal of the work difficult, and the height of the walls made it seem desperate, yet we found the Churches old friend the same to us, as to his Champion David, in whom we glory upon the like service: thou wilt lighten my candle: by my God I have leaped over a wall.  
5. Though the thrice storming of that strong piece seemed desperate, and the enemy gloried in the slaughter of many hundreds, yet (that we know of) we lost not above 30. on the ground, in those three assaults, their loss (as they confess) was more, their rock is not as our rock, our enemies themselves being judges.  
6. God so cleared the sky, and crusted the miry ground with a continued frost, that the air and soil became healthful to the great guards, that had the earth for their beds, and the heavens for their canopy, and most accommodious for the carrying in of provision to the Leaguer: Heaven and earth contribute to their service, who are in service to their Maker.  
7. What was wanting to the soldiers in accommodation, was supplied by a spiritful resolution, for though divers lived on bread and water, 〈◊〉 their arrears of pay deep, they resolved to stick to their work, what ever were their wages. When God hath a work to do, nothing shall disappoint it.   

Providences concerning Beston Castle.  
1. A Friend of ours, a Gun-smith betook himself purposely to the enemy there to do good offices for us, so rested their arms in firing of them▪ that none could take such aim, as to come near the mark. Hushai pretends for Absalon, when he doth the best offices for David.  
2. In erecting of the Fort and house, within Musket shot of the Castle, we lost not a man, though much blood was spilled in the former Leaguer. God makes the blind, when he engageth men on his own service.  
3. A woman bringing Letters and intelligence out of the North, encompassed by two or three hundred of our soldiers whiles examined about it, and kneeling betwixt a soldier's legs, at further distance from the Castle than the Fort, the enemy discharged a Musket at so fair a mark, the bullet shot her mortally through the back, kneeling in that posture, but touched not any of ours. An a●r●w shot at a venture strikes Ahab through a joint of his armour: man shoots the bullet. God gives the ticket.    
FINIS.