Britania Triumphalis; A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE WARS AND OTHER STATE-AFFAIRS OF Great Britain.  
From the Death of the late KING, to the Dissolution of the last Parliament.  
Vide quam repentè tempus res mutat humanas,  
Tempora mutantur, nos & mutamur in illis.  
LONDON, Printed for Samuel Howes, and are to be sold at at his Shop in Popes-head-Alley. 1654.   

TO THE READER.  
Courteous READER,  
I Here present unto thy view a rude and imperfect draught of those notable Occurrences, strange Revolutions, various Contingencies, and wonderful Transmigrations that have happened in this little corner of the Earth for these five years last passed; which although peradventure they may be embased by the course and mean allay of this impolish dress; yet in this as in all other Histories, you may find some things which may aut prodesse, aut delectare, either profit or delight thee: One wisely and truly calls History the faithful preserver of things past, and the certain prophet of things to come. First here is related the Fall of one of the Mightiest Monarches in Europe, and in Him of Monarchy itself, with the several designs and transactions that were set on foot for the instating of his Son in the Throne, and the fruitless events thereof. The Conquest of Scotland. The Reducing of Ireland. The Revolt of the Carybe Islands, and the Reducing thereof; and of the Islands of Scilly, Jersey and Man. The Breach between England and the United Provinces, and all the memorable Sea-fights that ensued thereupon. The Dissolution of the (commonly called) everlasting Parliament. The Calling another Assembly or Parliament, with the manner and cause of the dissolution thereof. The Lord General made Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, etc. the Solemnities used therein, his Reception and Entertainment in the City of London; Other things of less moment are interwoven and promiscuously mingled up and down the Book, as the nature thereof requireth; all which as to matter and form, I leave to thy impartial judgement, there to be arraigned and condemned according to the nature of the offence; and withal I request thee, that with patience thou wilt pass by such faults as have escaped the Press, whether verbal, syllabicall or literal, and so farewell.   

A Compendious NARRATIVE of the most Important Affairs of Great Britain, from the Death of the late KING to the Dissolution of the last PARLIAMENT.  

AS to the external Causes of the many evils and miseries wherewith this Nation has been afflicted for these few years past, much might be said, but the chief I have reduced to the following Heads.  
The first and general Cause was the Sins of the People, who (taking a surfeit of ease, plenty and pleasure) and growing wanton thereby, gazed after novelty (that magnetical attraction of the Plebeian rout) and as discontented with their present condition, sought felicity in things they wanted, and were still unsatisfied even in the accomplishment thereof: 
Malv. Rom.  whence is occasioned the hatred of tranquillity, the desire of motion, the loathing of present things, and seeking after future.  
Another principal Cause was the lamentable corruptions of the Court, not inferior in vice to the most infamous Court in Europe, not excelling in any thing that might be called virtuous, but inur'd themselves to a soft and luxurious life, abounding in all manner of voluptuous and effeminate pleasures, rejecting the more noble dictates of nature and grace, not achieving any one enterprise, that might render them either feared abroad or loved at home: but still wanting fuel for the fire of their prodigality, daily invented some new and indirect courses and ways to torment the people; whose jealousies and fears increasing with their grievances, brought forth a most bloody intestine war, which ended not but in the subversion of Church and State, as then established, viz. Episcopacy and Monarchy, the Head of both being cut off and the Bodies discomfited. And though the King was judged to be the Patron of those many innovations and miscarriages that befell the Church and Commonwealth, yet I am fully persuaded they proceeded not from the depravedness of his will, but the flexibility of his nature, overwhelmed by his pernicious Council, by which he seemed of a lesser magnitude than otherwise he would have done; yet was he not the worst although the most unfortunate of Princes: and in him ended Monarchy, but not the miseries of these Nations: for after some years civil (and yet unnatural) war betwixt King and Parliament, they at length terminated in the vanquishing of his Armies, the surprisal, captivity and death of his Person, upon a scaffold before his Palace of White-Hall, Jan. ●0th 1648.  
The third and last Cause which I shall mention (though not the least, was the Pride, Avarice, Ambition and slothfulness of the Clergy, who not only starved their flocks by withholding the spiritual food of their souls, but also tormented their bodies, by exhausting and sucking their bodily substance, insomuch that the Nation groaned under the burden of their abominable corruptions, who should have been the examples and leading-cards of piety and sanctity: yet did the popular fury contribute more to the confusion of their Hierarchy, than all their Crimes put together; nor were they cried down with more heat, than afterwards cried up, verifying that of the Poet, 
Quid populi tibi voce places? 
Mori Epigr.  saepe optima caecus,  
Dat vitio, & temerè deteriora probat.   
Having now hinted out unto you the Causes of our Wars and the distractions that followed (the beginning, progress and conclusion thereof, to the beheading of the King, being accurately and briefly described by another hand) I shall proceed to that which remains. 
May's Brev.   
No sooner was this mighty Prince bereft of his life and dignity in such sort as is before related, but Monarchy (the darling of the multitude) was voted chargeable, unnecessary and useless, and the Government was resolved into that of a Commonwealth.  
Yet this mutation happened not for want of such as by a lineal descent, and according to the usage of this Nation, might pretend a Title to the Crown: for there was a plentiful Issue of the late King (both Male and Female) then surviving, but from some other political reasons best known to the then swaying Powers, the which added and ministered hopes equal to the discontents of the people.  
Now Charles (though eldest Son of the late King) inherited little save the misfortunes of his Father, and what else he could chaulk out with his Sword; yet his greatest hopes and expectations were from Ireland where the several factions 〈◊〉, proclaimed him King, and bend their whole strength against the Interest of the Commonwealth of England; and in short space become so formidable, and prevailed so much, that they possessed all the strong holds of that Country (Dublin and Londonderry excepted) both which were straight besieged, the former by an Army of 22000. men under the Marq. of Ormond, the latter by a party of the Irish Rebels: he had likewise adjoining to the territories of England, the Islands of Scilly, Jersey and Man, which yet advantaged him no more then by nourishing a few small Picaroons to infest the narrow seas.  
But his affairs in Ireland were no sooner at this height, but they begun as suddenly to decline; for there being about 3000. Horse and Foot safely landed at Dublin (as the forlorn of a greater body) they were joined with what other Forces they could then make, all which made not above 9000. at the utmost, and commanded by the valiant and never to be forgotten Coll. Mich. Jones, sallied forth, and not only raised the siege, but routed the whole Army of the Marq. of Ormond, himself hardly escaping, about 2000 were slain in the place and in the pursuit, some thousands were taken Prisoners, as likewise all their Ordinance, Ammunition, Carriages, Provision, with great store of rich Booty. To add to their declining state, and help forward the destruction of these grand confederates, who were thus defeated in the midst of their mighty Attempts and huge imaginations, Oliver Cromwell Lord Deputy of Ireland landed at Dublin with a powerful Army (about the midst of Aug. 1649.) well accommodated for the accomplishment of that enterprise so happily began. 
General Cromwall landed in Ireland Aug. 1649  And first he laid siege to Drogheda, and in small time (though with some difficulty and loss) took it by storm; and that he might chastise their obstinacy, and strike terror into other Garrisons, put to the sword all that were found in Arms, which were about 3000. presently after which there fell into his hands many other Garrisons, some by force, others by surrender, viz, Trim, Dundalke, the Nur● 〈◊〉 ●x●ord, Rosse, Bandonbridge, Kingsale, P●ssagefort, with many more ●●o●edious to relate. In other parts of Ireland, several Garrisons of the Enemy were taken, and many considerable Parties were routed by others of the Parliament●●hi●●tains, viz. the Lord Broghill, Sr Charles Coot, Coll. Vena●les, Coll. Jones and others; and though this People have been still on the losing hand, yet have they held out in Boggs and f●stnesses even to this day; whereby we see, that the vanquishing this Nation, was not so feasible as in the days of Henry the second, who made it but a winter's work to reduce and subject the people thereof: A thing scarce credible (says our Author) that a Country so populous, 
Dan. Chro.  a Nation of that disposition, should not lift up a hand to defend itself! But it seems (saith he) they were wholly unacquainted with such strange kind of fights, or such weapons; insomuch that the terror thereof laid them prostrate to the overrunner; but though the winning of that Nation was accomplished with so much ease, yet in the keeping thereof was more difficulty and cost. In short, The Affairs of the Catholic and other their confederate party mouldered and declined more and more, to the great grief and disheartening of the Royal Party.  
Much about this time happened a general defection of the English Plantations from their obedience to the Parliament, 
Virginia and the Carybe Islands revolt.  viz. Virginia and the Carybe Islands: Where, in the ardency of Popular fury, Liturgy and Monarchy were cried up, and the Nonconformists were some stigmatised, some fined, and some banished; which courses procured them no small trouble and loss, in the decay of their Trade and loss of their Ships, all Nations being prohibited from trading or traffiquing with them upon pain of forfeiture: All which were in a few months reduced by a Fleet of Ships from England, 
Are reduced.  under Sr George Ayscue, not being able to subsist for any considerable space of time without Trade.  
The English coasts were likewise miserably infested with Pirates from Scilly, Jersey, Ireland and France; but the very Prince of Pirates and Plunderers, was one commonly known by the Name of Prince Rupert, who with the remnant of that Fleet, that (not long before) had revolted from the Commonwealth of England, being about nine tall and warlike Ships, committed many spoils and depraedations, not only upon the English coasts, but in other places likewise, whereby the Merchants incurred no small loss.  
Now for encouraging of Trade and reducing of Pirates, a stout and lusty Fleet of Ships well rig'd and man'd were set forth, which (with God's blessing) scoured the channel and blocked up Prince Rupert in the Harbour of Kingsale, which with the Town being taken by the Lord Gen. Cromwell, they were forced thence to make all the sail they could away (leaving about 3 Ships behind) and at length arrived at Lizbon, the Imperial City of the King of Portugal, and craved his protection, which was not denied them, the which caused much trouble, loss and detriment to that King; and was the only cause of that unhappy difference that fell out between him and this Commonwealth as hereafter will appear.  
Other Designs were set on foot by the Royal party, for the obtaining their ends.  
The first was the Commissionating of James Graham Earl of Montrose, for the raising what Forces he could in Holland and other parts to invade Scotland.  
The second was the procuring a Treaty between the Scots and their King, whereby they might by force or fraud work him into an absolute Sovereignty over that Nation, making good that known distich,  
If the Lion's skin will not prevail,  
They'll piece it with the Fox's tail.  
To give more life to these undertake, Ambassadors were dispatched to Spain, Italy, Denmark, Sweden, Russia, Turkey, etc. in the Name of Charles the Second, King of Great Britain, France and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, which Title (with much confidence) he assumed to himself, yet obtained neither Men nor moneys worth noting from any of them, but excuses, pleas and compliments in abundance; for alas they had rather he should not be at all, then be too great: they, that have equal dignity of birth, had rather have no equal then any superior.  
Montrose (according to his Master's Instructions, 
Montrose enters Scotland,  having got together some inconsiderable supplies of Men and Monies) at length lands in the North of Scotland, where he had not long been, ere he was assailed and routed by a party from the Kirk, 
is routed, taken prisoner and executed.  and his Person brought prisoner in most disgraceful manner to the Castle of Edinburgh, where to fill up the measure of their malice, they hanged him ten yards from the ground, an act so barbarous and inhuman, as admits of no comparison: thus lived and thus died the Mirror of Manhood and Map of Misery, who for many years together had been a thorn in the side of the Kirk; witness the several defeats he gave them, and who from small beginnings accomplished vast enterprises, whose hard fate it was at last to fall into their bloody hands, Sic transit gloria mundi. One would have thought this one act of theirs had been of force enough to prevent all future overtures between the Scots and their declared King: Yet as if he had throughly learned that lesson, Qui nescit dissimulare nescit regnare, he took little notice thereof.  
Next Montrose was executed Sir John Urrey, Coll. Spotswood, and others that were the chief actors in that undertaking, by which means they were rid of a dangerous enemy.  
On all this the English (like cautelous statists) had a watchful eye, and on every of those actings, whether open or secret, that might have any reflection upon them or their affairs: and to the end they might the better sound the contriva●ces of their adversaries, they endeavour to strengthen themselves by foreign Alliance; and accordingly they sent Dr Dorislaus a wise and knowing man as public Agent, 
Dr Dorislaus murder at the Hague.  into the United Provinces, whereby to keep a right understanding and fair correspondency between the two Republikes: where he had not long been ere he was slain by six assassinates that broke into his lodgings at the Hague in a disguised habit, by which means they escaped unpunished, notwithstanding the many endeavours (at least pretendedly used) for their apprehension. The authors of this Tragedy were afterwards known to be English Cavaliers, discontented at their declining state, and loss of their old Master: one whereof was Col. Spotswood aforementioned, who at his death confessed he was an actor therein. Thus stood the English affairs in reference to their enemies abroad, while they were in somewhat worse plight at home: for amidst the several factions that sprung up during these late wars, none was more desperate than that commonly known by the name of Levellers, 
The Levellers mutiny.  who at once so wrought with the Soldiery, that a considerable party of Horse withdrew themselves from the Army, and gathered together such others of their party as they could conveniently, thinking thereby to force their Lords and Masters to such things as their immature and unbridled apprehensions had dictated to them: 
are suppressed,  But by the care and industry of Gen. Fairfax, they were defeated at a place called Burford in Oxfordshire, and of those that were taken, some were made exemplary, others were cashiered the Army, and the rest upon their submission were taken into favour.  
Not long after was brought to trial at the Guildhall London, 
Lilburne tried at Guildhall  the grand Champion, the chiefest and only Patriot of the faction aforesaid, viz. John Lilburne, a man of a restless and yet invincible spirit, that could never be deterred with threats or won with favours, by a special Commission of Oyer and Terminer; where was present most of the Judges and Justices of the several Courts at Westminster, the Lord Mayor, Sheriffs, and several Aldermen of London, with others of eminent quality. The Indictment with many crimes of a treasonable nature, as being the Author of such and such Books mentioned therein; which Books were fraught with the most shameful revile, scurrilous invectives, and malicious outcries against the Governors and Government of the Nation, that the heart of man could invent, calling them Tyrants, Traitors, Conquering Usurpers, and what not. Now though nothing was more generally believed, then that the Books aforesaid were of his own penning and publishing, yet at his trial he made such an excellent, 
is cleared and released.  subtle and singular defence, that the Jury brought him in Not guilty, whereupon he had his release.  
By this time the several transactions that were between the Scots and their King, had brought forth a Treaty at Breda in the Netherlands, 
The treaty between the Scots and their King concluded  a Town of special note belonging to the Prince of Orange, at whose cost and charges it was both continued and concluded: Now that part of the Agreement that had the most especial influence on us, was, that they should endeavour to the utmost of their power, to reinstate him in his Father's Throne, invest him in his Power and Greatness, and establish him in his just Rights and Dignities: where we shall at present leave him, to see how the Affairs of his Adversaries the English succeeded.  
The differences that lately broke out between the King of Portugal and this Nation, were now widened by acts of open hostility; for when the English perceived, that neither entreaties nor threats would make him force Prince Rupert out of his Harbour, and that the often applications and negotiations of the English Agent M. Charles Vane, in order thereunto, could avail nothing, but on the contrary prepared what Ships of war he had to join with Rupert, and so to chase the English from his Coasts, they seized many of his Ships richly laden both inward and outward bound: but the King doubting his strength, desisted from falling upon the English Fleet, and fell to seize the estates, and secure the persons of the Merchants and Factors residing in Lisbon and other places under his Jurisdiction.  
About this time likewise the English sent an Agent to the King of Spain, viz. M. Anth. Ashcam, 
M. Ashcam the English Agent murdered at Madrid.  a most learned and excellently well accomplished Gentleman, who on the 5th of June 1650. landed at Santa Maria, where (hearing of many threats against his person) he procured a Guard that conducted him to Madrid, where is kept the Court of the King of Spain: The first night it was his hard fortune to lie at an Inn; the next day while with his Interpreter Signior Riba he sat at dinner, six devils in the shapes of men, knocked at the door, had easy access, and being entered M. Ashcam risen to salute them, whereupon the foremost stabbed him in the head, and his Interpreter endeavouring to escape was stabbed in the belly, both falling down dead in the place. Whence the murderers fled to the Venetian Ambassadors house, but were denied entrance: whence they fled to the Sanctuary, were pursued and carried to prison from thence by the King's special command, one of them only escaping. Hereupon arose a great difference between the King and the Church, about the violation of the holy Sanctuary, and thereby infringing the Sacred Rights and Privileges of the Church, and demanded that the Assassinate's should be delivered again into the Sanctuary. On the other hand, the Parliament of England by sundry Messages, earnestly pressed that Justice might be severely inflicted upon those execrable offenders, that had perpetrated so horrid and vile an act upon their public Minister. And indeed it was a crime of so transcendent a nature, that me thinks it should not enter into the heart of any considerate man to imagine of any expiation for them here, however it may please God to deal with them hereafter. The Church notwithstanding prevailed so fare, as to interrupt the course of Justice, for as much as their punishment has been hitherto suspended, though for any thing we hear they are yet in durance.  
Near this time arrived in England the Lord Gerard Scarph, as Commissioner from the State's Provincial of Holland and West Friesland, and upon the 11th of June 1650. he delivered his Message in Parliament; which though it produced no more than a mutual desire of an amicable compliance, yet was it very well resented by the Parliament, that they showed themselves the leading cards to the rest of the Provinces at such a time as that.  
Now whenas the Treaty at Breda was fully ended, and that all their Jealousies and animosities (notwithstanding the vast disproportion and notable antipathy that was erewhile between the Royalists and Presbyterians) was by this means fully allayed, at least in show. The Scots seemed to want nothing save the presence of their King, whereby to crown their desires, and confront the English, in order whereunto He hasts from Breda to the Hague, from thence to Scheveling, where he took shipping, and at last in despite of foul weather, and the English Kingfishers that lay there to intercept him, he landed at the Spey in the North of Scotland, where he found the greatest difficulty in ascending the Throne, and lest enjoyed it of any Prince that was ever heard or read of. For upon all occasions he was compelled to trace the steps and follow the dictates of that haughty Clergy, in all their fanatic humours and imperious decrees: who bereaved him first of all his old friends, Counsellors and confederates, whether of the Clergy or Laity, who (to say the truth) had always accompanied his Father and Him in all their disasters and dangers; and had shipwrackt their own fortunes, to carine and repair his, though it may be by this desertion he intended their restauration. But now the Scots had a King, yet (as though they had none) they did what seemed right in their own eyes.  
The first and most pernicious potion they made him to take, and of hardest digestion, was the Solemn League and Covenant, that ignis fatuus, and only seminary of blood and mischief in these three Nations.  
The next was a Declaration of the Kirks own framing and fashioning; wherein he is taught to renounce the sins of his Father's house, and of his own, the Idolatry of his Mother, by a constant adhering to the Cause of God, according to the Covenant, in the firm establisment of Church-government, as it is laid down in the Directory for public Worship, Confession of Faith and Catechism: This with divers others of the like nature (although with much reluctancy) he also signed; which its like burdened his spirit, yet bettered not his condition, which was like that of a Child under Tutors and Governors; for there was not an Officer in that Church or Commonwealth, how vile and abject soever in place or person, but enjoyed more freedom in body and mind than he. Guarded indeed he was, but little regarded; so that move he must not but in the sphere of the Kirk; they were the primum mobile, whereby its apparent that the Government of that Nation was not truly Monarchical (though they had a King) but hierarchical, the confusion whereof I shall now set before you.  
The Parliament of England weighing right well the condition into which their affairs were now reduced (by reason of the Agreement that was pieced up between the Scots and their King) after a serious and solemn debate, voted that Thomas Lord Fairfax with the Army under his command should march Northwards: who (after some conference had with the Parliament) and being prompted by an indisposition of body or mind, laid down his Commission: which was forthwith conferred upon Oliver Cromwell Lord Deputy of Ireland, 
Gen. Fairfax lays down his Commission which was presently conferred upon General Cromwell Lord Deputy of Ireland.  who (in order to this Northern expedition) arrived a while after from his victorious achievements in that country, leaving his Son in Law Henry as Lord Deputy in his room.  
Accordingly Orders were issued forth for the speedy advance of the Army into Scotland, who had no sooner begun their March, but the Scots took the Alarm, and sent two or three Papers to Sr Arthur Haslerig then Governor of Newcastle; wherein they expostulated the Case about the sudden approach of the English Army, endeavouring thereby to impede their march, till such time as their designs were ripe: alleging (as scarecrows to fright fools) the Covenant, the large Treaty and Union between the two Nations, with other circumstances of the like nature, as frivolous as they were fruitless.  
The Parliament of England then published likewise a Declaration, showing the grounds and reasons of their Armies advance towards Scotland, accompanied with another from the General and Officers of the Army, showing that that which moved them to that great undertaking, was not any reliance upon the arm of flesh, 
The Declaration of the English Army in their march to Scotland.  or being lifted up with the remembrance of former successes, or the desire of accomplishing any designs of their own that they had forelaid, but the full assurance they had that their Cause was just in the sight of God: looking at the precedent changes, and the successes that produced them, not as the work of the policy or strength of man, but as the eminent actings of the Providence and Power of God, to bring forth his good will and pleasure, concerning the things which he hath determined in the world; adding, That nothing was predominant with them (next to their duty to their duty to God, not to betray a cause, to which he had so much witnessed) as the love they had to those that feared God there, who might possibly suffer through their own mistakes, or their disability to distinguish in a common calamity: of which Christian love they hoped that they gave some proof when they were before in Scotland with that Army, and were by God made instrumental to break the power of those that oppressed the godly Party there; for which (say they) their late Engagement to their new King against England was no good requital, nor their heaping on them the reproach of a Sectarian Army, a Christian dealing: all which (by the grace of God) they could forget and forgive, and did (as they say) desire of God that the precious might be separated from the vile, beginning and concluding with a most solemn and dreadful imprecation and appeal; That to the truth of these things the God of Heaven in his great mercy, pardoning their weaknesses, would judge of them when they came to meet the Enemy in the Field.  
This Declaration was sent by the General of the English Forces from their Headquarters at Barwick to Edinburgh by a Trumpeter, whom they blinded coming and going, what effect this wrought the sequel of the Story will relate.  
From Barwick the Army marched to the Lord Mordingtons' House July 22. 1650. where they lay three days: on the 25. they marched to Copperspeth, the 26. to Dunbar, where they received some provisions from the Ships sent on purpose to attend the motions of the Army; forasmuch as the people of the Country had forsaken their habitations, and had left nothing behind that might accommodate them. The Army thus refreshed at Dunbar, marched thence to Haddington: Next day hearing the Scots would meet them at Gladsmore, they laboured to possess the Moor before them, but no considerable part appeared, whereupon Major General Lambert and Colonel whaley men of approved courage with 1400. Horse were sent as a Vanguard to Mussleborough to attempt something upon the Enemy if possible; The General with the residue of the Army marching in the rear, the English and Scotch Horse had some encounters, but the Scots would not endure the Shock: that Night the English lay encamped close at Mussleborough; The Enemy was within four miles of them, entrenched with a Line, flanked from Edinburgh to Leith; the Guns from Leith scouring most parts of the Line, so that they lay very strong: The English finding their Enemies were not easily to be attempted, lay still all that day being the 20. which proved a sore day of rain, and greatly disadvantageous to them, having nothing to cover them, all which, expecting a speedy engagement, they did cheerfully undergo it; next day being the 30. the ground very wet, and provisions being scarce, the English resolved to draw to their Quarters at Mussleborough, to refresh and revictuall; which while they were doing the Scots fell upon their rear, and put them to some disorder. But some bodies of the English Horse came forthwith to close with them, which produced a hot and gallant skirmish, insomuch that at length the English charged them so home, that they beat them to their very Trenches. Major General Lambert in this dispute was run through the arm with a Lance, and wounded in another part of the body, taken prisoner, but rescued by Lieutenant Empson of the General's Regiment; several of the Scots were killed and taken Prisoners with small loss to the English: among the rest there was taken one Lieutenant Colonel, one Major, and some Captains, some persons of note were likewise slain.  
By this means the English had opportunity to march quietly off to Mussleborugh, which they did that night; but so wearied for want of sleep, and tired with the dirtinesse of the ways, that they expected the Enemy would make a sudden infall upon them, which accordingly they did: Between three and four of the Clock next morning, being the 30. of July, with 15 select Troops of Horse under the Command of Major General Montgomery, and Col. Straughan, who came on with great resolution, beat in the English Guards, and put a Regiment of Horse into some disorder; but the English presently taking the Alarm charged, routed, pursued, and did execution upon them, within a quarter of a mile of Edinburgh, taking and killing many, as well Officers as Soldiers: the Scotch affairs succeeding in this sort, made them forbear such frequent sallies, and keep within their intrenchments.  
This was the posture of the Military affairs of Scotland, when to add to the miseries of that people, all traffic and commerce was prohibited between the two Nations; And such of the Scots as had their residence in England, were commanded to departed the Land within ten days or thereabouts; their Ships (not able to resist, having no Convoy) were often surprised by the English; Insomuch that they were in the road way to ruin: But seeing this Month of August produced little of Action from the Armies there, it will not be amiss to give a brief account of such remarkable passages, as about that time happened in England and the Neighbouring Nations.  
At London was apprehended, condemned, 
Col. Andrews beheaded at Tower-hill.  and executed Colonel Eus●bius Andrews, who being taken w●th a Commission from Charles Stuart, and for entering into a conspiracy to undermine the Government of England, suffered death as aforesaid.  
From the United Provinces came account of some notable transactions, which takes as followeth.  
The Prince of Orange (Brother in Law to the Scots King, by marrying his Sister, Daughter to the late King of England) aspiring to a higher degree of Sovereignty over those Provinces than he or his Predecessors ever enjoyed, and being thwarted in some of his projects when he was at Amsterdam, he thereupon was so distasted, that he resolved to right himself, by securing and putting out the leading men in that Province of Holland, for which purpose he caused all the Deputies thereof (being then at the Hagne) to assembled, which they refusing, he seized most of them, those of Amsterdam, (whom he chief desired) escaped only. His next design was to have surprised the City of Amsterdam by a stratagem, commanding the Horse to such a place, under pretence of conducting his Mother, and shipped his Infantry at Utrech in the ordinary Passage-Boats, to come all night, that they might be there early next morning, and the horse to have their Rendezvouz upon the Heath between Naerden and Amesford about midnight, and to be at the Ports of the Town at the moment appointed; By which time the foot should have seized on the Regulars, and the S. Tuni●s Ports, and have opened a passage for the Horse to enter; which design (if by a wonderful providence of God in sending a fierce storm of rain that night, the intended march of the Horse had not been hindered from coming to the place and time appointed) had in all probability taken effect. Nor had the Town known any thing thereof t●ll too late. But the Hamburgh Post, as he was coming to the Town met with several parties of Horse, riding to and fro about Amesford and the Heath, yet who they were he knew not.  
Hereof the Lords being informed, straightway caused the Ports to be shut, the Bridges drawn, the Guards set, the Ordinance planted, and all warlike preparations to be made; and all this while not knowing their enemies. But they were not long in suspense, for notice was soon given, that it was Count William with his Forces whose designments being thus defeated, the Prince of Orange accosts the Town with this following Letter.  
Worshipful, Prudent, Discreet Sirs, and my very good Friends.  
WHen I was last in the City for the service of the Country, I was so strangely entertained, that not to be subject to the like hereafter, I found it expedient to send Count William with the Troops following him into your City; and ordered him to keep all things in peace and quiet there, that I might not be hindered by any illaffected, in such things as yet I have to propound unto you, touching the service of the Country, wherein I require your good assistance; And in confidence thereof, commending you to the protection of the most High, I remain,  
Hague, july 29. 1650. Your Good Friend, W. Prince of Orange.  
This stratagem (projected with so much secrecy and subtlety) failing, Count William drew off his Forces to several Posts, with intent to block up the Town, which being in a posture of defence, opened their sluices, and set the Land under water round about, and having so done, they sent a Trumpeter to Count William to know the reason of that so sudden approach, and to desire him to retreat with his Army, who returned answer, that he could do nothing till he heard from the Prince of Orange, yet a little after he thought fit to quit his station and retire; yet the Deputies of Holland being fast in the Castle of Lovenstaine, the Prince of Orange had the advantage of making his own conditions which were these.  
1. That the Town of Amsterdam shall agree with the other six Provinces for continuing the Militia, as it is now settled for four or five years.  
2. That the Prince shall repair to their City at pleasure, and be received upon his entry with all respect and reverence, as was used in times passed to his predecessors, Lieutenants of Holland, and have access into their Assemblies.  
3. That the Lords of Amsterdam shall at the next Assembly of the States, use their utmost endeavours to allay all jealousies and to reconcile differences in reference to the late action, and bury all in oblivion.  
4. That the Lords Andrew and Cornelius Bicher, shall forthwith be removed from Government, with respect had to their good Names, Integrity and future Security; and if after they have had conference with his Highness the Prince of Orange he shall persist in his opinion touching them, that then they shall be rendered uncapable of any Government hereafter.  
Now though by this means he brought the States under his Lure, and subjugated them to his humour; yet this was not the prize he run for, his greatest hopes and highest thoughts being fixed on that inexhaustible treasure then in the bank at Amsterdam, with which he might not only have raised his declining state, but also mount to an absolute degree of Sovereignty and Supremacy over that people, and likewise might have contributed much towards the repairing the despicable and needy fortunes of his Brother in Law the Scots King, to the troubling and disquieting the peace and tranquillity of these three Nations; to all which it pleased God of his goodness to give a check.  
The State of France had likewise a plentiful share in those encumbrances and common calamities that are incident to Nations and people by reason of foreign and domestic broils; The present Cardinal Mazarine was looked upon as the very efficient cause of all their civil discords, and the only eye-soar of that miserable people; not much unlike the late blazing Star of Canterbury in England, both Church men and yet both Statesmen, of like Interest with their King, and of like power over the people, both alike emulated by the Nobility for their Greatness, and of the Commonalty for their grievances; But like Fate hath not befell them; For this Cardinal is neither out of favour with his Prince, nor is he fallen into the hands of the people, for though they have often showed their teeth, it hath never been in their power to by't.  
For during the minority of the present King of France Lewis the 14. the sole management of State-affairs hath been in the hands of the Queen Regent, and her beloved Favourite Cardinal Mazarine; at which (after some years' forbearance) the chief of the Nobility uttered their discontents both privately and publicly: whereupon three of them were arrested and sent to prison, viz. Lewis de Bourbon Prince of Conde, Armant de Bourbon Prince of Conti, and the Duke of Longueville; this administered fresh occasion to the people to breathe out their discontents, those of Bordeaux against the Duke of Espernon more especially, but all against the Cardinal; So that on a sudden the whole Kingdom was inflamed with civil wars, and the appurtenances thereunto belonging. The principal promoters of and actors in those tumults were two famous Amazons, the Princess of Conde, and the Duchess of Longueville in behalf of their imprisoned husbands; Many others of quality appeared also in their behalf, and to make themselves the more formidable, contracted an underhand bargain with the Spaniard, who (greedy to fish in such troubled waters) supplied them with considerable sums of money: The Parliaments of Bordeaux, Paris, Dijon, Tholouse, etc. countenanced these designs in opposition to the Cardinal and his creatures; So that in short space Armies were raised on both sides, Towns garrisoned, taken and retaken, many men's lives lost, and the Country preyed upon by all parties; The Spaniard being not only a fomenter of, but an actor in these portentous divisions, for by this means he had the opportunity to march to and fro in that Nation, without any considerable opposition, taking Garrisons, and wasting the Country at his pleasure.  
These Insurrections (after many ebbing and flow, strange Revolutions and transmigrations, too tedious here to insert,) at length produced the liberty of the Princes, the withdrawing the Duke of Espernon from Bourdeaux, the banishing the Cardinal with all his kindred and friends from the Court and Kingdom: yet was he longer banishing then banished; for it was not many months ere he returned in great pomp and glory, to the extreme grief of his old malcontents and competitors, the Prince of Conde, the Duke of Orleans and others; as appears by the present troubles wherewith that servile people is yet afflicted: where (praying for their deliverance) I shall leave them, and return to the more proper subject of this discourse, viz. the English affairs in Scotland.  
The month of August was near done, and little action performed save the taking of Collington house and Readhall by storm, and in it the Laird Hamilton, Major Hamilton and 60 Soldiers, 60 Barrels of Powder, 100 Arms, great store of Meal, Malt, Beer, Wine and other rich plunder: This was done on the 24th of Aug. 1650.  
The body of the English Army removed forthwith from Pencland Hills, to Collington, Readhall and other parts within a mile of the whole Army of the Scots; on the 27th both Armies marched side by side, a great bog only betwixt them, which hindered an engagement, yet the great Guns played on both sides: Aug. 28th the Canon from the English Camp played hard upon the Enemy and greatly annoyed them, all which provoked them not to fight, but still they kept within the protection of the Bog: The English (being in some want of Provisions) drew off to their old Quarters at Pencland Hills, then with much difficulty to Mussleburrough to recruit, which done, they drew off their Forces, quitted their Garrisons, and marched to Haddington; the Scots attending on their right wing, fell into their Quarters with a resolute Party, and were as valiantly repulsed by a Regiment of Foot commanded by Coll. Fairfax.  
Septemb. 1. The Scots being so advantageously drawn up at the west end of the Town, the English drew Eastward into fair and champion ground, fit for both Armies to engage in: but finding (after several hours expectation of the enemies approach) that they would not move after them, but to dog them to advantages, they marched towards Dunbar, whether the Scots moved apace after them, and at a Pass endeavoured to fall upon the rear, which the English perceiving faced about to fight them: whereupon the Scots drew off to the Hills, perceiving their advantage lay there, to impede the English at the Pass at Copperspeth; which being effected, they bragged they had the English in Essex his pound, meaning they had them upon the same lock the King had the Earl of Essex at in Cornwall: so ready are men to promise wonders to themselves, while they confer but with their own desires.   

The English were indeed environed with all manner of apparent dangers; their Forces were lessened, their bodies weakened with Fluxes, their strength wasted with watch, in want of drink; wet and cold weather they were always accompanied with, and much impaired in point of courage, 2000 at least being disabled for present service, were sent at several times to Barwick.  
The General and his Council of Officers finding the Army unfit for further delays, 
The Scots defeated at Dunbar.  resolved next morning to break through that their israelitish condition, by falling on the right wing of the Scots, and either force a passage that way, or perish in the attempt; and being imbattailed by break of day accordingly, they fell upon the enemy with Horse and Foot very unanimously; who to hinder the English at a Pass, drew up all their Horse upon their right wing, and valiantly received the onset: The Word of the English was The Lord of Hosts; and that of the Scots was The Covenant: The English as men endued with new strength from on high, vigorously pressed forward, as resolved to become absolute vanquishers or to die Martyrs. After one hours sharp dispute, the Scots were wholly routed, their Cavilry fled, and the Infantry were all or most of them slain and taken to the number of about 15000. There were taken 200 Colours, 10 Colonels, 12 Lieutenant Colonels, 9 Majors, 47 Captains, 72 Lieutenants, 80 Ensigns besides Cornets and Quartermasters: 22 Pieces of Ordnance, with several smaller Pieces, about 15000 Arms; those of Quality taken, were the Lord Libberton and his Son, the Lord Cranston, Sr James Lumsdale Liutenant Gen. of the Foot, Adjutant Gen. Bickerton, Scoutmaster General Cambill, etc. At this engagement all the Forces of the English would not amount to 1200, and the Scots were in number more than 20000. And as there was a general Fast throughout England, to implore a blessing from Heaven upon the proceed of their Army in Scotland, so likewise there was appointed a solemn day of Thanksgiving to Almighty God, for this mighty Victory obtained over the Scots in the fields of Dunbar, Sept. 3. 1650. in the observation whereof many of the Clergy showed themselves very froward and obstinate, of whom I shall have occasion to speak more hereafter.  
Scot 7th. 4 Regiments of Foot marched into Lieth, where they found 37 Guns mounted on Platforms, some Shot and Ammunition with store of wealth.  
The same day the Lord Gen. Cromwell drew the rest of his Army both Horse and Foot into Edenburrough, without any loss save the Arm of a Soldier taken off by a Canon bullet from the Castle: Sept. 6th being Sabbath day, General Cromwell sent a Trumpeter into the Castle, to invite the Ministers to come to their several Charges, which they refused, so that the English supplied their places.  
For some certain time the Army was busied in completing the Fortifications at Lieth, the most commodious Harbour for their accommodation in all Scotland.  
Gen. Cromwell (after he had caused a Protection for Markets, and Liberty of Trade in Edenburrough and Lieth to be proclaimed by beat of Drum and sound of Trumpet) marched forward Sep. 14th with his Army to Netherish, 6 miles from Edenburrough, leaving Maj. Gen. Overton with his Brigade behind. Sep. 15th the Army marched beyond Linlithgow, but (by reason of the extremity of the weather) they were forced to quarter there that night. Sep. 16th they marched towards Falkirke; and from thence Sep. 17th within a mile of Sterling. Sep. 18th a Council of War was called, and a Letter drawn up to be sent into the Town, expressing their constant affection to, and tenderness of the People of Scotland, which though they had not taken the desired effect, yet being so far advanced into the Country with their Army, they now desired them to take into consideraiton their former Papers, and deliver up that place for the service of the Commonwealth of England. A Trumpeter being sent with the Letter, a Gentleman on foot, with a Pike in his hand met him, and told him They would not let him come in, nor receive his Letter.  
In the afternoon came a Trumpeter from the Scots, desiring a release of Prisoners upon ransom: To which General Cromwell answered, That they came not thither to make merchandise of Men, or to get gain to themselves, but for the service and security of the Commonwealth of England.  
The same day Orders were issued forth for the Horse and Foot to march towards Sterling, in order to a storm, Ladders and all other necessaries being provided for that purpose; but the strength of the enemy, and of the place, with other disadvantages being considered, it was resolved that the Army should draw off; which accordingly they did Sep. 19 and marched to Linlithgow, which when the General and his Officers had viewed, order was given for making several Works for the security of the place, conceiving it might make a very considerable frontier Garrison, lying in the heart of the Country, between Edinburrough and Sterling: whence (leaving there 5 Troops of Horse, and 6 Companies of Foot) Gen. Cromwell with the rest of the Army marched back to Edenburrough. Sept. 23. The Gen. and Officers kept a day of Humiliation.  
About the same time the Kirk party also appointed a solemn Fast,  

1. To humble themselves for their too much confidence in the arm of flesh.  
2. For the malignity and profaneness of their Army.  
3. For the Plunderings and wickedness of their Army when they were in England.  
4. For their not sufficient purging their Army.  
5. For their Commissioners unlawful and surreptitious manner of prosecuting the Treaty with their King, and their crooked ways in bringing him home.  
6. For their not sufficient purging the King's house.  
7. For the just grounds they have, that his Majesty's Repentance was not found, nor from the heart.   
From which time to the month's end, little was done, save that Gen. Cromwell took order for the effectual reducing of the Castle of Edinburrough: for which purpose many miners both Scotch and English were procured to expedite the business. Sep. ●0. The English went so near the works of the Castle, as they carried away one of the Scots Colours, 300 Muskets with other Arms, without any loss.  
Octob. 1. The Scots Galleries went on in order to springing the Mines, they sent many great and small shot among them, yet nothing retarded the work. Octob. 2. the English made a search in the high Church at Edinburgh, and found there one great Iron Gun, 200 new Muskets, 16 barrels of Powder, 6● bundles of Bandeliers, 200 Swords, 200 new Halberds, 300 new Pikes, and two load of Match. That which was done the remaining part of this month, was chief to beget a right understanding and compliance with those that dissented from the King and Kirk, viz. Col. Kerre and Straughan and their adherents: for which purpose Gen Cromwell sent Commis. Gen. Whaley with his own and another Regiment towards them: in the mean while the Fortifications at Lieth, and the mining at Edinburgh went on prosperously: Then Gen. Cromwell with the residue of the Army marched towards Glasco, but finding there little encouragement for longer stay, they quickly returned, and in their way Garrisonned two strong Houses, both to enlarge their Quarters, and to prevent the Mosse-Troopers from securing themselves there.  
Let the Reader now judge what a disastrous condition this People was in, that when an enemy was in the very heart of the Country, there should be so many distractions and civil discords among themselves, even to the kill and slaying one another: One Party in the North was for the King without the Kirk; another Party in the West was for the Kirk without the King; a third was for King and Kirk; and these were they then at Sterling that bore the greatest sway; viz. The Committee of Estates and General Assembly; all these had their Swords drawn one against the other. When things were at this pass, Gen. Cromwell sent a Letter to the Committee of Estates, and another of the same to Col. Kerre and Straughan, much like the former, and produced like effect. Commis. Gen. Whaley that was sent with a party towards Kerre and Straughan, accosted them first with a Letter, declaring, That it was not unknown what Amicable ways they had used, to avoid the effusion of Christian blood, before and since they came into Scotland, which though hitherto had been ineffectual, yet they should endeavour the same; Showing further, that their Arms were still stretched out ready to embrace them, whenever God should incline them to come in, and that they sought not domination over them, to enslave them, nor to depress their Kirk-Government, neither that they sought their Goods or Estates, but to carry on the Lords work: And that if they would still be blinded, and persist in gainsaying and opposing, than what further misery befell their Nation by Famine or Sword, would lie heavy on them.  
This Letter (though savouring so much of integrity and ingenuity) met with nothing of like nature from their Adversaries, notwithstanding their pretended desire of harkening to an accommodation.  
For within short space after Col. Kerre sent a Letter to Commissary Gen. Whaley then at Carlisle, which being contracted speaks after this sort; That though they were not in a capacity against the unjust invasion of the English, yet were they in a capacity to suffer, and should submit to Gods will, either by doing or suffering, until the time of their deliverance come; and that if it were their happiness to perish in their duty, it would be a sufficient mercy to them: and when the persecution had arrived to its height, their captivity should be returned, adding that he thought it strange the English should talk of a cessation, even while they were captivating their poor people, assaulting their Garrisons, apprehending their godly Ministers, tearing them from their holy callings, and from their holy sighing flocks: concluding, that the departure of the English out of that Kingdom, and then desiring a Christian Treaty or conference with them, would be a favour and mercy equally as great to the one as the other. These were the effects of that (I will not say misguided) zeal, by which these men were acted.  
About the latter end of this Month, 
Prince of Orange dies.  the Prince of Orange departed this life, who so lately had put a hook into the Nostrils, and a Bridle into the mouths of the high and mighty States, and in him the Scots King lost the great interest he had in those parts; whom, though the States for his late Actions when he was living hated, yet when dead they lamented: About ten days after this, 
The Princess is delivered of a Son.  the Princess of Orange was delivered of a Son, which did in part mitigate the grief that was conceived for the death of the Prince.  
Now seeing the Scots still slighted all the ways and means of a loving and friendly compliance, as appeared by another Letter from Coll. Kerre to Commiss. Gen. Whaley, wherein he advises them to stand upon his Guard, and expect no further Overtures; the English set upon new undertake, and by a party of Horse under Maj. Brown took in a strong place called Dalhouse, and in it 50 Muskets, 50 Pikes, 4 Barrels of Powder, some store of Provisions and Provender: this was a supposed Harbour for those villainous people the Mosse-Troopers, who murdered divers Englishmen straggling or going for Provisions; they likewise surprised a party of Mosse-Troopers in Darlington Castle, some of which were shot presently upon the place. Then advanced Coll. Monk with a party of Horse and Foot to reduce Rose-lane Castle 7 miles from Edinburrough, which (when he had sent in some Granades among them) was yielded upon mercy: Maj. Gen. Lambert presently after with a party of 2000 Horse marched towards Dumfreez, Coll. Kerre being then about Peebles; Commis. Gen Whaley in his march towards the enemy, took in Dalketh Castle with a threatening Summons, where was store of Arms, Ordnance, Powder, Match and Bullet; the wall of it was 13 foot broad at the top: Now Coll. Lambert having (not without some difficulty) got over Hambleton River, quartered there that night; Coll. Kerre having notice thereof early next morning, resolved to beat up their Quarters and fall in upon them, 
Col. Kers patty defeated, and himself taken prisoner.  and so to surprise the Maj. General, all which he at tempted with courage; but the English having a timely Alarm, on a sudden encompassed most of the enemy's Horse, of whom they killed 100 and took 100, they took likewise 400 Horse and Furniture, forsaken of the Riders, and pursued the rest as fare as Air; in which pursuit Col. Kerre himself was wounded and taken, 
Colonel Straughan came in to Major General Lambert.  with his Capt. Lieut. Lieutenant Colonel, and Straughans' Major, etc. Colonel Straughan, Capt. Giffin with some others of the dissenters in the West, came then in to the Major General, who brought them all forthwith to the Headquarters at Edinburgh.  
December; The English having raised a battery, planted their morter-peece and great Canon against Edinburgh Castle, and begun to play; the Enemy hung out a Flag of defiance in contempt thereof: but they had not played long ere they took it in, whereby it was conceived some notable execution was done by four or five shells that fell among them, and forthwith put out a white Flag on the top of the Castle, and sent forth a Drummer offering to surrender if they might have leave to send to the Committee of Estates: which being denied they accepted of a Treaty, and sent Major Abernethy and Capt. Hinderson to treat on their part: Col. Monk and Lieut. Col White were appointed to treat in behalf of the English, the result whereof was to this effect.  
That the Castle of Edinburgh should be surrendered up to his Excellency the Lord General Cromwell on the 24. of Decemb. 1650. with all the Ordinance, 
The strong and impregnable Castle of Edinburgh surrendered to the English.  Arms, Magazine, and Furniture of War thereunto belonging.  
That the Governor with all the Officers and Soldiers, should then march forth with their Arms, Colours flying, Drums beating; matches lighted and Bullet in mouth to such place, as they shall choose.  
That such Inhabitants adjacent as have any goods in the Castle, shall have them restored unto them; and to that purpose they had liberty from the 19 to the 24. of Decemb. to fetch them away. There was taken in this strong-hold 5 French Canon, 5  half Canon, 2 Culverings, 2 Demi-culverins, 2 Minion, 2 Falcon, 28 Brest Drakes, 2 Petards, about 7000 Arms, 80 Barrels of Powder, store of Canon Shot, with other provisions proportionable.  
It may seem strange and almost incredible, that such a strong and impregnable hold as was that, should be so easily won, the like whereof is not in that Nation; wherefore it was the common vogue of that time, and by many credibly believed, That it was assaulted with silver engines; But whether it was covetousness, cowardice, Treachery or want that caused this sudden rendition, I know not: But this I know and am sure, it made as much for, and was of as great importance to the English, as can be imagined: for while that business was yet in suspense, the Army was hindered from many attempts of great consequence.  
Nor was the Parliament of England less fortunate in their maritime affairs: for the English Fleet under the command of Gen. Blake lying before Lizbon, after they had destroyed several French Pirates, taken many Sugar Prizes belonging to the King of Portugal, of great value, and scoured the Seas in some sort of such others as had been so extremely prejudicial to the English Merchants, especially those trading into the Levant Seas; They were constrained partly by distress of weather, and partly to revictual and water, to make for some other port: in which time Prince Rupert with his Fleet (making a virtue of necessity) hoist sail, and steered their course for Malaga, where they burned and spoiled several Merchants Ships: Gen. Blake hereupon reduced his Fleet to 7 stout and nimble Frigates, and sent the rest home with the Prizes, and with them he made all the Sail he could after the Enemy, and coming to Malaga heard they were gone towards Alicant, Gen. Blake sailing thence betwixt Cape degat and Cape de Paulo took a French Ship of 20 Guns, and presently after that the Roebuck one of the revolted Ships fell into their hands, after which they met with the Black Prince another of rupert's Fleet, which to avoid being taken, ran ashore and blew herself up: next day 4 more of rupert's Fleet ran ashore in the Bay of Cartagena, 
Prince rupert's Fleet destroyed.  where they were cast away and bulged: Some few days after General Blake set sail to seek out the rest of rupert's Fleet, which were two, steering his course towards Minorca, Majorca, Humaterra; but missing of them he gave over the Chase, and returned for England, having done as much as could be expected from men valiant and faithful, to the great encouragement of the Merchants, contentment of the people, and joy of all well-affected people.  
Notwithstanding all this, several designs were set on foot by unquiet and wayward spirits in behalf of Charles Stuart, some by open insurrection, others by secret combination, in which the Clergy had no small share, as shall be declared hereafter.  
There was executed at Tyburn one Benson for acting by virtue of a Commission from the Scots King, 
Benson an Agent from the Scots King executed at Tyburn.  being in the same conspiracy with Col. Andrews who was beheaded as aforesaid.  
Upon the same account risen a mutinous rabble in the County of Norfolk, 
An Insurrection in Norfolk.  who for a while went roving to and again, pretending the ends of that undertaking, was for the abolishing of Popery, restoring the young King to his Crown, revenge of his Father's death, for suppression of heresy and schism; But as it was begun without order, so was it managed without resolution: For the Parliament were no time-givers to growing dangers, but immediately gave order for the suppressing them; So that 200 Horse from Lyn and 3 Troops of Horse from the Army, with some of the Militia Forces of that County, 
is appeased and the ringleaders executed.  marched towards them, upon which they were presently dispersed, and some taken, whereof about 20 were executed, who because they were persons of no great eminency, I shall forbear troubling the Reader with their Names.  
About this time also Sir Henry Hid being commissionated as Ambassador from the Scots King to the Grand Signior at Constantinople, 
Sir Henry Hid executed at the Old Exchange  stood in competition with Sir Thomas Bendish (than Ambassador for the English) for his place: whereupon they had a hearing before the Vizier Bassa, the result whereof was, that Sir Thomas Bendish should dispose of the said Sir Henry Hid, as he thought good, who was straightway sent to Smyrna, thence into England, and there condemned and executed for a traitor before the Royal Exchange in London.  
The war in Scotland was now almost at a stand, for the sharpness of the Winter was such in that Northern Climate, that much could not be expected, yet were all probable designs for the reducing that obstinate and hardy people put in execution. 
The Scots King crowned at Scone. Jan. 30. 1651.  The Scots were chief busied about the Coronation of their King, which was performed at Scone, Jan. 1. 1651. with as much solemnity and gallantry as their necessity and poverty would permit; then they proceeded to the Excommunication of Straughan, Swinton, and others that came in to the English, made a shift to unite the other Dissenting parties, and then put out an Act for new Levies to be made throughout the Nation.  
Soon after this Lieut. Gen. David Lesley with a party of 800 Horse made an attempt upon Lithgow where was a Regiment of Horse under Col. Sanderson, who being presently in a readiness to receive them, the Scots retreated without entering the Town.  
Next attempt of the English was for reducing of Hume Castle with two Regiments of Horse and Foot commanded by Col. Fenwick, 
Hume Castle besieged,  who coming before it, sent in this Summons, which with the answer for the unusual strain thereof, I here insert.  
Sir,  
HIs Excellency the Lord General Cromwell hath commanded me to reduce this Castle you now possess, under his obedience, which if you now deliver into my hands, for his service, you shall have fit terms for yourself and those with you, and ease the adjacent parts of a great charge; If you refuse, I doubt not but in a short time, by the Lord's assistance to obtain what now I demand. I expect your answer by 7. of the Clock tomorrow morning, and rest,  
To the Governor of Hume Castle.  
Your Servant, George Fenwick.  
Right Honourable,  
I Have received a Trumpeter of yours, as he tells me, without the Pass, to render Hume Castle to the Lord General Cromwell: Please you, I never saw your General, nor knew your General, as for Hume Castle it stands upon a rock: Given at Hume Castle this day before 7 a clock, so resteth without prejudice to my Native Country.  
For the Governor of Barwick,  
Your most humble Servant, 
assaulted and taken.  Th. Cockburne.  
Notwithstanding this resolute and conceited answer, when the English with their Culverin and morter-piece had opened a small breach, the Enemy beat a parley, and because they might not have such conditions as they would, they were forced to take such as they could get, viz. to surender upon mercy, which was done accordingly.  
Then Col. Monk with about 3 Regiments of Horse and Foot, laid Siege to Tymptallon Castle, against which they played with their mortarpieces for the space of 48 hours, but did them no hurt; then they played at the Castle with 6 battering Guns, 
Timptallon Castle taken.  which did such notable execution, that the Enemy beat a parley, and desired terms to march away, but none would be granted, save that they should yield themselves to mercy, which was at last accepted, and the Castle yielded, with all the Guns, Arms, Ammunition, and provision therein: The taking of this Castle was of great concernment to the English, who were ever and anon taken and rifled by the Garrison; So that now the passage from Edinburgh to Barwick, was in a manner clear. Notwithstanding which and all the care that had been used, the English were daily surprised and murdered in small straggling parties; insomuch that Gen. Cromwell was forced (for the safeguard of his men) to publish and strictly to put in execution the following Proclamation.  
FInding that divers under my command are not only daily spoiled and rob, but also sometimes barbarously and inhumanely slain by a sort of outlaws and robbers, not under the discipline of any Army, and finding that all our tenderness to the Country, produceth no better effect, than their compliance with and protection of such persons, and considering that it is in the power of the Country to detect and discover them, many of them being inhabitants of those places where commonly the outrage is committed, and perceiving that their motion is ordinarily by the invitation, and according to intelligence given them by Countrymen; I do therefore declare, that wheresoever any under my command, shall be hereafter rob or spoiled by such parties, I will require life for life, and a plenary satisfaction for their Goods, of those Parishes and places where the fact shall be committed, unless they shall discover and produce the offender; and this I wish all persons to take notice of, that none may plead ignorance. Given under my hand at Edinburgh, Novemb. 5. 1650.  
O. Cromwell.  
Hereupon several Sums of Money were levied upon such Parishes and places where any Robberies or Murders were committed; and likewise such persons as were found to abett, act, or assist in the perpetrating any murders were forthwith condemned and executed, according to the tenor of the aforesaid Proclamation.  
The English in the next place designed the reducing of Brunt Island, and in order thereto they shipped some of their Infantry; but either through the ignorance, mistake, or neglect of the chief Commander, the design for that time was frustrated.  
Gen. Cromwell with his Army marched from Edinburgh, and assayed several times to pass over into Fife; but the violent season and difficult passage, forced them to betake themselves to their former Quarters, which were the more comfortable by reason of the Fleet of Ships that arrived at Lieth with plenty of provisions for Horse and Man; one whereof bound from Hamburgh with cheese, by distress of weather was driven into the North of Scotland where it was seized: but the Master pretended he was bound for Haver de Grace in France, and producing old Cockets, importing as much, he was dismissed and a Scotchman put himself and goods aboard for France; whereupon they set sail, and about the Frith were boarded by an Irish Man of War, who would have carried the Vessel to Ireland, alleging they were bound for Lieth, the Master stood to his former relation, and desired they would take the report of a Scotchman who was aboard; so that forthwith they left her, and she came safe into Leith, whence the Scotchman was sent home to carry the News. These with many other the supplies that were sent from England were a great heartening to the Soldiers in the midst of those many hardships they were exposed to by diseases, and otherwise; of which the General himself had as great a share as any, for he had so many violent fits of the contagious disease of that Country that brought him even to the brink of death; yet the weakness and want of the General did neither abate the Soldier's courage, nor retard the enterprises they designed for completing their work; although other difficulties presented themselves as so many mountains of opposition, viz. the number of their enemies dispersed all along the other side of the river to prevent their Landing, the danger of the passage itself, and the unseasonableness of the weather; these impediments with the weak condition of the English, hindered any further proceed for some space of time.  
During which Interval there happened as remarkable an accident in England as any Story can parallel, which for the strangeness and rarity thereof may well merit my pains to recite, and the Readers patience to peruse: At Oxford (the famous and renowned Nursery of humane Literature) was tried, condemned, and executed, Anne Green, a Servant to Sir Thomas Read at Ounstu in that shire, who being with child by a Gentleman in that House (as she affirmed to the last) about the fourth month of her time; over-working herself fell in travel, and (not knowing what it might be) went to the House of Office, where with some straining the Child fell from her unaware (as she said) being not above a span long; and something appearing in her Linen that caused suspicion, search was made, and an abortive Infant found on the top of the House of Office, so that 3 days after (being in that time before some Justices of the Peace) she was carried Prisoner to Oxford, where she was condemned and hanged in the Castle-yard: After she had hung about half an hour (during which time she was pulled by the Legs, 
Anne Green hanged at Oxford, afterward she revived and is yet alive.  and struck on the Breast by divers of her friends, and others, that she might be out of her pain) she was cut down, put into a Coffin, and brought to a House to be dissected before some Physicians: When they opened the Coffin, they perceived a rattling in her throat, a Fellow standing by stamped upon her breast and belly; yet Doctor Petty and two or three more than present fell speedily to use some means to bring her to life, and opened a vein, laid her in a warm bed, procured a woman to go into bed to her, and continued the use of divers other remedies, having respect to her senselessness, head, throat, and breast, so that in a few hours she spoke, the next day talked and coughed very hearty, and in short space perfectly recovered: Upon which first her reprieve, and then her pardon was procured: After this, she (as upon the Gallows) still insisted upon her innocency and integrity, in relation to the fact for which she was condemned. And indeed this was looked upon as a special providence of God thus to deliver her, who in the judgements of those that understood the business was deemed guiltless. Herein did the hand of God wonderfully appear, in detecting the unadvised actings of men, and in showing us the danger we are in, when we are swayed either by passion or prejudice against the meanest of his Creatures.  
The Parliament weighing how prone the people were to adore the shadow of the late King, though the substance was destroyed, caused his Statue that was set up at the West end of the Cathedral of St Paul to be pulled down, and that also in the Royal Exchange, over which they caused to be wrote this Motto.  
Exit Tyrannus Regum Ultimus Anno Libertatis Angliae restitutae Primo, Anno Domini 1648. January 30.  
They likewise caused that badge of Monarchy the King's Arms, to be defaced and expunged out of all Churches, Chapels, and places of public worship and Courts of Judicature throughout their Dominions, and this indeed was a means to make the giddy people forget the Garlic and Onions of Egypt they much hankerd after.  
And to add a more splendid lustre to their strength and greatness; they were highly courted by Ambassadors from the Neighbouring Nations, viz. Holland, Spain, and Portugal, yet the crafty Hollander held at a distance, as rather willing the prosperity of the Royal party, then hearty desiring, or effectually endeavouring a peace with them. The Spaniard as he had better ends, so had he better success; though in all his addresses he was still reminded of his suspending and delaying the execution of justice upon the Assassinates of the English Resident at Madrid, since which time till now the controversy between the King and Church about that business hath been in debate.  
The Portugal Ambassador (after audience had before a Committee of Parliament, 
The Portugal Ambassador dismissed home.  and several applications unto them) not being fully impowerd, to give a plenary satisfaction to the state for their vast expenses, and to the Merchants for their great losses, all occasioned by them, was at length dismissed.  
Ambassadors extraordinary were sent from the Parliament of England to the States of the United Provinces; their Names were Oliver St John, and Walter Strickland, 
English Ambassadors are sent into Holland.  men of singular parts and of approved integrity, who in gallant equipage, with a magnificent train of followers, set sail from the Downs, March 11. 1651. On the 12th towards Evening, they came to anchor before Hellevoit slugs, but not without some danger: On the 13 they went in Boats to Rotterdam, being met with vessels from the States, then by the English Merchants were conducted to the English house, and nobly entertained: During their stay there, the Spanish Ambassador sent a Gentleman to congratulate their safe Arrival, and to desire there might be a fair correspondency and right understanding between their Lordships and him. About two or three days after they set forward for the Hague, where by the way the Master of the Ceremonies, with about 30 Coaches, met them, and entertained them with some Compliments, and conducted them to a House at the Hague, prepared for their reception, where they were feasted three days by the States, and then had audience: where the Lord St John made a Learned and Eloquent Speech in the English tongue and then delivered a Copy thereof in Dutch and English, 
they have audience.  the heads whereof were in effect as follows.  
That they were sent over to the High and Mighty States of the Netherlands, from the Parliament of the Commonwealth of England, to make a firm League and Confederacy between the two Republics, if they think fit to accept thereof, notwithstanding the many injuries the English have sustained from the Dutch Nation.  
Secondly, To renew and confirm those former Treaties and Agreements of Trade and commerce made between the two Nations.  
Thirdly, He shown them the notable advantages of England, in respect of the pleasant and commodious situation thereof, for the advancement of trade and all other accommodations.  
Lastly, He told them he was commanded by the Parliament of the Commonwealth of England to let their Lordships know how highly they resented the execrable murder of Dr Dorislaus their Agent, and that he doubted not but that their Lordships would use their utmost care and industry in causing a strict and diligent search to be made after the Authors thereof.  
After which the States (being acquainted with the many affronts the Ambassadors Gentlemen and others their attendants, had received from English Cavaliers and other ruffians) drew up a Proclamation and sent it to the Ambassadors by the Lord Catz, to know whether they judged it full enough; the contents whereof was, To forbid all manner of persons whatsoever, from giving any affront, either in word or deed, to any of the Ambassador's retinue, upon pain of corporal punishment.  
Three months was now spent in this tedious and costly Embassy, and nothing obtained save affronts and abuses of all kinds, and the Sword of Justice not drawn in their behalf, against any one of that riotous rabble, that so frequently swarmed at the Ambassador's gates, assaulting their servants, and reviling their persons: of which injuries the Parliament being deeply sensible, and wearied with expectation of what fruits this Treaty would produce, Resolved (That seeing all their Proposals and endeavours for a lasting and well grounded Peace, were answered with dilatory shifts and evasions, on purpose to gain time upon the English, till they saw on which side the chance of war in Scotland would fall) to call home their Ambassadors; which sudden and unexpected news did so surprise the Hoghen mogen's, that they courted them with frequent and unusual visits; and with a multitude of feigned expressions, 
they return into England.  laboured to beget a good opinion in the English of the reality of their intentions towards an amicable compliance with this Nation: notwithstanding all which the Ambassadors soon after return into England infecta pace.  
That which gave further cause of jealousy to the English, that the Dutch played an underhand game with them was, because Admiral Van-Trumpe with a Fleet of Ships lay hover upon the Coasts of Scilly, as though he would make an hostile attempt upon that place; but it being demanded of the States of Holland, what was the design of their Fleet in riding so near that Island? it was answered, That they had no other design therein, but to demand restitution of such Ships and Goods as the Pirates thereof had taken from their People: with which answer the Parliament were somewhat satisfied; but not to trust them too far, speedy order was taken for reducing the same into their own hands.  
Accordingly on the 18th of April 1651. Gen. Blake (with the addition of a squadron of Ships commanded by Sr George Aiscue, 
The Islands of Scilly reduced.  that were designed for reducing of the Carybe Islands,) set sail and landed 300 Seamen besides Landmen upon the Isle: The Seamen with much resolution, courage and gallantry, led the van, and easily made way for the rest; so that they soon became masters of the Islands of Tresco and Briers, took therein 150 Prisoners, and slew about 20; they took also two considerable Frigates, the one of 18, the other of 32 Guns; they likewise became Masters of the best Harbour belonging to those Islands: hence the enemy fled to St Maries, their chief place of strength, which in short time was surrendered. As to the exceeding great strength and commodious situation of these Islands, I need not say much, for who so knows those parts, or hath observed the Card, will see what a necessity there was of reducing the same, and what a seasonable mercy God was pleased to Crown their endeavours withal, that they should gain so considerable a place as that, being fortified both by Nature and Art, without the loss of ten men from first to last.  
Upon misinformation of the State of Cornet Castle in the Isle of Guernsey, 
Cornet Castle in Guernsey assaulted, but in vain.  that then held out for the Royal party, a considerable number of Foot, with Ladders and all things necessary, gave an onset; but whereas it was reported and believed that there was but 40 men in the Castle, and 18 of them unable for service, it appeared aftewards that there was 60 able men therein, enough to keep it against a far greater number, than was before it, so that their Ladders were beaten down and broken with stones, timber, and case-shot from the flankers, and many of the Soldiers both slain and wounded, insomuch that it proved a work too hot for the assailants: nor was there more safety in getting off one or two Boats full of men being sunk by shot from the Castle; but how badly soever the business succeeded, the Soldiers were not in the least wanting in their duties.  
There was executed at Tower-hill one that had been a notorious stickler for the Royal party by Sea and Land; 
Brownbushell beheaded at Tower-hill.  for several crimes of blood and treachery acted by him, while he was in the service of the Parliament, and after his revolt known by the Name of Brown bushel.  
And now once more let us advance Northward, and observe the motions of the two Armies: 
Blackness taken by the English.  The English (desirous to gain upon their adversaries as much as consisted with policy and their own safety) with a commanded party under Col. Monk, set down before Blackness, that had much annoyed their Quarters by sheltering lose rogues and otherwise; After the batteries were made, and some shot spent at it, they desired Quarter, which (considering the strength of the place) was granted, and the place forthwith yielded. On the other side the Scots begun to be both powerful and numerous to the eye: For notwithstanding the many parties and Factions, Strifes, Aemulations, Contentions, Divisions, Subdivisions, Excommunications, etc. they pieced up an agreement (such as it was) to the seeming satisfaction of all the dissenters: And now they join against the common Enemy, having their greatest hopes wrapped up in a most notable design and confederacy, hatched by the Royal Covenanters of England and Scotland, whereby a general rising in the County of Lancaster and parts adjacent was contrived, who by joining with a considerable force from Scotland, should have been able to confront the greatest power the Parliament than had, and this plot had its rise and progress from the Clergy, those foeudatories of Rebellion and treason; but by God's Providence was seasonably discovered; the Grand Agent hereof was Thomas Cook of Gray Inn Esquire, who was apprehended and carried before the Council of State at White-Hall, whence he made his escape, but in few days after was retaken at a House in the Strand; Next discovery was by means of a Ship bound from the North of Scotland to the Isle of Man, which by contrary winds was driven into Air, and there secured and searched, wherein were found many notable Papers, giving further light into the business.  
Not long after this a Party of Horse and Dragoons marched to Grenock, near Dunbarton, where they seized Mr Birkenhead another Agent for the Royal designs, about whom they found such Letters, Commissions and Instructions, that therein their whole plot was discovered; Upon which the Parliament ordered, that a considerable body of Horse and Foot should march Northward, under the command of Major General Harrison both to prevent insurrections and likewise to oppose the Enemy, if they should make an inroad by the way of Carlisle.  
At London was under question the most eminent actors in and contributors to the plot aforesaid, viz. Mr Christopher Love, Major Alford, Maj. adam's, Col. Barton, Mr Blackmore, Mr Case, Mr Cauton, Dr Drake, Mr Drake, Capt. Farr, Mr Gibbons, Mr Haviland, Major Huntingdon, Mr Jenkins, Mr Jaquel, Mr Jackson, Lieut. Col. Jackson, Capt. Mussey, Mr Nalton, Capt. Potter, Mr Robinson, Mr Sterks, Col. Sowton, Col. Vaughan, and others; of all which there suffered only two, viz. Mr Love, and Mr Gibbons; 
Mr Love and Mr. Gibbons executed.  Now Mr Love although by many circumlocutions, sleights, and evasions, he strived to clear himself; yet besides the witnesses of his own party, that testified against him, he was everted out of his own Narrative, as also out of the several Petitions presented by him to the Parliament in his own behalf, after he was condemned; which did but procure him a short respite from death: for on the 22. of August, 1651, he with Mr Gibbons aforesaid were beheaded on Tower-hill; the rest upon their humble Petitions and acknowledgements of their crimes were released and pardoned. And high time it was that such an exemplary piece of justice, should be inflicted upon the proud and obdurate Clergy, who till then thought themselves out of the reach of magistratical power, and that their Function might cloak their actions; but let them know, that Magistracy is an Ordinance of God as well as Ministry; for there is no power but of God, and the powers that are are ordained of God.   

Therefore it would not be amiss, if our Governors in some particulars would imitate the Republic of Venice: First, By not admitting Ecclesiastical persons into secular Counsels, because they have relation to another Government, viz. Pontificial. 2. By having a special care to the Pulpit and the Press, that no Churchman from the meanest Priest to the Patriarch, dare tamper with the affairs, designs or transactions of the State: It being too well known (saith my Author) that Churchmen are the most perilous and pernicious instruments in a State, 
Howels Survey of the Signiory of Venice.  if they misapply their Talents, to poison the hearts of the people, to intoxicate their brains, suscitate them to sedition and a mislike of the Government; and they have more power to do this, in regard they have the sway over the noblest part of the creature, the soul and intellectuals: therefore if any meedle with State-matters in the Pulpit, they are punished in an extraordinary severe manner, and this (saith he) is alleged for one main reason why the Venetian Republic hath kept their Liberties inviolable; and if it shall please God to put it into the hearts of our Governors to take the like course, no doubt but we shall have the like blessing.  
There happened much about this time a petty Insurrection in Wales, 
A rising in Wales.  two or three hundred being got together in behalf of the Scots King, whom tell-tale Fame (that hath continual credence with the fickle multitude) had possessed with pleasing (and yet untrue) news of the defeating Gen. Cromwel's Army, and the advance of the Scots into England, which prosperous attempt had an event suitable to the undertaking, viv. confusion and destruction.  
The English being now desirous to put a period to the war in Scotland, by gaining a passage over the river into Fife, for the facilitating their work, and more easy transportation, caused several boats to be made, with which they gave many great Alarms to the Enemy on the other side, as also to those in Brunt Island, in order to what they further intended.  
The Scots also made many infals upon the out-quarters and Garrisons of the English, wherein they had frequently good success, killing some and slaying others, having the advantage of the English by their knowledge of the Country, for prevention whereof, orders were given out for drawing off their remotest Garrisons, and contracting their Quarters, which was done accordingly, and the Army put into a marching posture for Fife, for which purpose Blackness was made their Magazine; but the Ground not yet affording either Grass or Oats, the enterprise was further suspended.  
The Scots having completed their Levies to the Number of 15000 Foot and 6000 Horse, marched on this side Sterling to a place called Torwood, where they were faced by the English, but would not be drawn to an Engagement, yet still lay encamped behind bogs, and inaccessible fastnesses, on purpose to delay the War: Upon which the English resolved to land some Forces on Fife side, 
The English gain a passage over into Fife.  and for that end there was drawn out 1600 Foot, and 4 Troops of Horse, commanded by Col. Overton, who attempted to land at Queen's Ferry, which on the 17th of July 1651. with the loss of about six men was effected, and presently they fell to entrench themselves: while this was doing the Lord Gen. Cromwell with his Army marched close up to the Enemy, that in case they had marched towards Fife, he might have engaged their rear before they could have reached Sterling: The Scots receiving the Alarm the same day, forthwith sent a considerable party of Horse and Foot to the number of 4000 under Sir John Brown to drive the English out of Fife: upon which Gen. Cromwell sent Maj. Gen. Lambert with two Regiments of Horse and two of Foot to reinforce the other party, who in 24 hours were ferried over and joined, upon which Col. Okey with his Regiment fell in among the Enemy, whereby they were forced to draw into a Battalia, as did the English also, who were more in number then the Enemy, though to equalise that they had greater advantages of ground. In this posture they continued facing each other about an hour and half; whereupon the English resolved to attempt the Enemy by ascending the Hill, which being done (after a short dispute) the Scots were utterly routed, 
4000 of the Scots routed, slain and taken.  2000 or thereabouts were slain, and 1400 taken Prisoners, whereof Sir John Brown the Commander in chief was one, with Col. Buchanan and many others of quality: Of the English there was few slain, but many wounded: A further additional strength of horse and foot were sent into Fife, so to strengthen the English that they might be able to encounter the whole body of the Scots Army, if occasion required.  
Immediately upon this, 
Inchigarvey Castle surrendered to the English.  was surrendered to the English the strong Castle of Inchigarvey, situate on a rock in the midst of the Fryth, between Queens-Ferry and North-Ferry, wherein were 16 pieces of Ordnance.  
July 27. The whole English Army appeared before Brunt-Island, and sent in a Summons for rendition thereof, unto which the Governor returned a modest answer, and the next day accepted a Parley: Commissioners on both sides were chosen, and after some debate it was agreed, that the said Island, 
Brunt-Island surrendered to the English.  with all the Provisions, Guns and Shipping of War, should be delivered into the hands of the English, etc. and that all the Officers and Soldiers in the said Island, should march away with Colours flying, Matches lighted, and Bullet in mouth: This place was of much concernment to the English, and served for a store-house of all necessary supplies for the support of their Army.  
Thence the Army marched without stay to St. Johns-Town, a place of great strength and importance, 
St Johns-Town yielded to the English.  into which the enemy had newly boated a Regiment of Foot: yet when the English broke down their sluices, and let the water out of the Graff, the enemy's courage failed them, so that it was in short space delivered.  
This was no sooner done, but the main body of the English Army, were constrained to attend more eminent service, viz. the pursuit of the Scots King, who with an Army of about 16000 Horse and Foot, had slipped into England by the way of Carlisle: 
The Scots enter England by the way of Carlisle.  accordingly most of the Infantry were boated over to Lieth, with as much expedition as could be, and presently after the Horse: Orders were immediately given to Maj. Gen. Lambert, to march with 3000 Horse and Dragoons, and (if he could) to get into the rear of the enemy. Maj. Gen. Harrison was ordered likewise to get into their van, to stop them and do what further he thought fit: besides these there was about 16 Regiments of Horse and Foot with Gen. Cromwell upon their march after the enemy: And to prosecute the affairs of Scotland, Lieu. Gen. Monk was left with a party of 7000 Horse and Foot, who straightway took in the strong Town and Castle of Sterling, Aberdeen, Abernethy, Dundee, Dunotter Castle, Dunbarton Castle, with several others, so that the whole Realm of Scotland, was (after a passage gained into Fife) with little or no difficulty subdued and made tributary to the Republic of England.  
The Scots Army, 
The Scots enter the City of Worcester,  after many halts and skirmishes, long and tedious marches, weakened in their bodies and distracted in their minds, decreasing rather then increasing, at length put into Worcester; whence the King sent out his Letters mandatory to Sr Thomas Middleton to raise forces for him, and to Col. Mackworth Governor of Shrewsbury to the like purpose, as he did to others also, but without success: He was likewise proclaimed King of Great Britain, France and Irelrnd, in most places where he came: which blast of Honour (like Jonah's Gourd) quickly vanished: for alas by this project of theirs, of coming into England, they run themselves into inevitable danger, as the Poet says, Decidit in Syllam, qui vult vitare Charybdim. being environed on all sides with the Militia Forces of the several Counties of the Nation, besides Gen. Cromwel's Army they so much dreaded; there was likewise a considerable body of Horse and Foot under Maj. Gen. Lambert and Harrison that attended their motions: Col. Robert Lilburne was left in Lancashire to hinder the Earl of Derby from raising Forces in those parts, other parties were disposed into several other places, to hinder the enemy of Provision, or stop their flight as occasion should be.  
The Earl of Derby being landed (as was expected) at Wyewater in Lancashire, with about 300 Gentlemen and others, endeavoured to raise the Country, while the English were busied at Worcester, and in short space by the accession of Papist, Royalists and discontented Presbyterians, they increased to the number of 1500: Gen. Cromwel's Regiment of Foot being then at Manchester, was appointed to meet Col. Lilburn at Preston: To prevent this conjunction, 
The Earl of Derby routed in Lancashire.  the enemy bent their course towards Manchester to surprise the said Regiment; whereupon Col. Lilburn assayed to flank the enemy in their march, and by that means to join with those Foot; which the enemy perceived and pressed to engage. Now though Col. Lilburn was overmatcht with Foot in point of number, whereby the dispute proved tedious and difficult, yet in the space of an hour, the enemy was totally routed, many persons of quality were taken, as Col. Leg, Col. John Robinson, Col. Bayns, Col. Gerard, 4 Lieut. Col. 1 Major, 4 Captains, 2 Lieutenants, 20 Gentlemen and Reformadoes, 500 Common Soldiers, with all their baggage, Sumpters, Arms and Ammunition, the Earl of Derby's George, Garter and other robes with badges of the Order, but he himself escaped and recovered Worcester: There were slain the Lord Widrington, Sr Thomas Tildesly, Col. Matth. Boynton, Sr William Throgmorton, Sr Francis Gamuel with some other inferior Officers and about 60 private Soldiers. Of the Parliaments Party but 10 were slain, but many wounded: For this piece of service Col. Lilburn was bountifully rewarded, as he indeed deserved.  
Gen. Cromwell (who by delays, never contributed to approaching dangers) with his Army came to Worcester, before he was either expected or desired by his Adversaries; whenas the whole Army was presently disposed about the City, in order to a close begirting thereof.  
The first remarkable attempt, was the possessing a Pass upon the Severne, at a place called Upton, which was done by a party led on by Maj. Gen. Lambert, and was presently made good by Lieut. Gen. Fleetwoods' Brigade, who marched towards the River Team, over which was made a Bridge of Boats, and another over Severne on the General's side; upon which the enemy took the Alarm, and drew out Horse and Foot to oppose the Lieut. General's passage; to whose relief there was commanded over Colonel Inglesbyes and Col. Fairfax Regiments of Foot, the General's Lifeguard, and Col. Hackers Regiment of Horse; all which were led on by Gen. Cromwell in person: then was commanded over likewise Col. Goffs, and Maj. Gen. Deans Regiments, who sell to scouring the hedges, which the enemy had lined, and beat them from hedge to hedge, and being seconded by a fresh supply (after about an hours sharp dispute) the enemy was forced to give ground and fly to Powick bridge, where with about three Regiments more they maintained another hot dispute, but at length quitted their ground also, and ran into Worcester, except some that were taken.  
After which (renewing their courage) they drew out what Horse and Foot they could on the General's side, thinking most of his Army had been on the other side, making a bold and resolute sally, whereby the General's men were forced a little to retire; but the scales presently turned, and in such sort that the enemy was totally routed both Horse and Foot, their Works and fort-royal were taken, and their Canon turned upon themselves, the Town also was straightway entered and sacked; 
The Scots routed at Worcester, Sept. 3. 5651.  most of the Scots Infantry were slain and taken, but of their Horse above 3000 escaped, of which Col. Barton lying about Bewdly with some Horse and Dragoons, took near upon a thousand; Col. Lilburn with the Gener. Regiment of Foot, met with the Earl of Derby, that lately so narrowly missed his hands, with the Earl of Lauderdaile and above an hundred persons of quality more. In this engagement and the glean thereof, there were taken Prisoners near 10000, and about 3000 slain: Those of Quality taken, were Duke Hamilton, Earl Lauderdaile, Earl of Rothes, Earl of Carnwarth, Earl of Shrewsbury, Sir John Packington, Sir Charles Cunningham, Sir Ralph Clare, Lo. Spine, Lord Sinclare, Earl of Cleveland, Earl of Derby, Earl of Kelly, Col. Graves, Mr Richard Fanshaw Secretary to the Scots King: 6 Col. of Horse, 13 of Foot, 9 Lieu. Col. of Horse, 8. of Foot, 6 Majors of Horse, 13 Maj. of Foot, 37 Capt. of Horse, 72 Capt. of Foot, 55 Quartermasters of Horse, 89 Lieutenants of Foot; Maj. Gen. Pitscotty, Maj. Gen. Montgomery, the Lieutenant Gen. of the Ordnance, Adjut. General of the Foot, the Marshal, Quartermaster General, & Waggonmaster General: 76 Cornets of Horse, 99 Ensigns of Foot, 30 of the King's servants, 9 Ministers, 9 Surgeons, 158 Colours, the King's Standard, Coach and Horses, with other rich goods and his collar of SS. Many Parties were taken besides in several other places, as Warwickshire, Shropshire, Lancashire, Cheshire, Yorkshire, etc. insomuch that few of that great Body escaped, but were either killed or taken. Maj. Gen. Massey being sorely wounded, surrendered himself to the Countess of Stamford, and by the Lord Grey of Groby her Son, was secured and sent to London, whence in short space he made an escape: In another place was taken Maj. Gen. Middleton, and Lieut. Gen. David Lesley; so that I may say, the glean of this Victory, were not much inferior to the harvest thereof.  
Near this time, most of the Nobility and Gentry of Scotland, were taken at a place called Ellet in that Nation, where they were assembled to propagate the Royal designs: viz. Old Gen. Lesley, Earl Martial, Lord of Keith, Earl of Craford, Lord Ogilby, Lord Burgoiny, Lord Huntly, Lord Lee, with many Knights, Gentlemen and Ministers: all which were soon after shipped and sent for England.  
Such was the fate that attended the Scots and their King, that He who a few days before was proclaimed King of Great Britain, had now neither Camp nor Garrison, nor lodging to fly unto or safely to repose himself in for shelter, 1500 sterling being offered to any that should detect him; which not withstanding he escaped, making a disguised peregrination through City and Country, till he met with a fit opportunity for his transportation into France, where he now is. Yet of the great number of his friends, adherents and followers that were taken, none of quality suffered but the Earl of Derby, 
Earl of Derby beheaded.  who was beheaded at Bolton in Lancashire, and Sir Tim. Fetherston: others of less not were executed at Chester, Shrewsbury and other places.  
Nor did the Royalists themselves expect any other or better fortune would attend them in this invasion then that you have heard; as appears by Duke Hamiltons' Letter to Mr. Will. Crofts, taken among other Papers a few days before the fight, the sum whereof follows;  WE are all laughing at the ridiculousness of our condition, 
Duke Hamiltons' Letter.  who having quit Scotland, being scarce able to maintain it; yet we grasp at all, and nothing but all will satisfy us, or to lose all: I confess I cannot tell whether our hopes or fears are greatest; but we have one stout Argument, and that is despair, for we must now either shortly fight or die. All the Rognes' have left us, I will not say whether for fear or disloyalty; but allnow with his Majesty are such as will not dispute his Commands. 
So that you see, this undertaking was not the product of a mature and deliberate council, but of necessity and desperation.  
Soon after this the Parliament took order for reducing the two Islands of Jersey and Man; that had been and would still be notable receptacles, for the entertaining all manner of fugitives and disaffected persons.  
In order to which business, Col. Hayne with about 2 Regiments of Foot and 2 Troops of Horse, on the 14th of Octob. 1651. were shipped at Weymouth for Jersey; they were in all eighty Vessels, and set sail Octob. 17. but a storm forced them in again. On the 19th they set sail again, and about 12 that night came to an Anchor under Sarke Island, next morning they bent their course towards Jersey, and came to an anchor in St owen's Bay; next day they sailed and anchored before St Brelades Bayliff, when the seas proved so rough that the Fleet was scattered; notwithstanding on the 21th it was resolved, that an attempt should be made upon the Island that night at St owen's Bay, being necessitated thereunto for want of Horsemeat; in few hours after they embarked their men aboard the small Boats, Gen. Blake and all his Officers were very active in this business, who about two hours after the flood weighed Anchor, cut some of their Cables, hoist sails and stood in for the shore, and were soon aground on the shore side, some at 3 foot, some at 4, 5, 6, 7 foot water; their men presently leapt out, some up to the middle, some to the neck, and run ashore; the enemy playing hard upon them with great and small shot, and with their Horse gave a hot charge; yet after half an hours dispute, they fled and left behind them 12 Guns and some Colours at that place; after which and that their Horse were landed, they marched further into the Island, and on the 23th Octob. possessed themselves of three Forts more with two Guns in each; they marched on further till they came within sight of Elizabeth-Castle, under which was a Fort called St Alban Tower, where was 14 Guns, the speedy reducement whereof was resolved upon and a Summons sent in, 
The Island of Jersey reduced.  and in two hours' time it was delivered up. The next business they had to do, was to take in Mount Orgueil Castle, which upon easy terms was also surrendered: but Elizabeth Castle being a place of fare greater strength, was not reduced till the middle of Decemb. following; the Governor thereof Sr George Carteret, had large terms granted both to himself and all with him, by reason of the marvellous strength and situation thereof, which was such as might have cost much blood, treasure and time in the gaining of it.  
Octob. 16th 1651. Under Colonel Duckenfield were shipped 3 Regiments of Foot, viz. Gen. Cromwel's Regiment commanded by Lieut. Col. Worsly, Maj. Gen. Deans Regiment, commanded by Lieut. Col. Mitchell, and Colonel Duckenfields' Regiment, with two Troops of Horse, these were all shipped at Chester and Liverpool for the reducing the Isle of Man: and on Octob. 18th. they hoist sail, but by contrary winds were driven into the Harbour of Beumorris, on the 25th. about two in the morning, the wind coming about somewhat southerly, with a pretty fresh gale, they set sail again, and about two or three aclock in the afternoon they had a clear view of the Calf of Man, Castle Rushed, Derby-Fort, Douglas-Fort, and most part of the Island, as also of the Islanders, both Horse and Foot in their several motions, mustering up what strength they could: when by a sudden storm the Fleet was hindered from coming up any thing near the shore; upon which they steered their course towards the North end of the Island, and with no small difficulty fetched Ramseybay that night, where they cast Anchor, and with a small Party faced the Islanders, yet was there no shot exchanged. Octob. 16. came on board an Islander, employed by the chief of that Island, to assure the English they should have no opposition in landing, but might securely come under their Forts, which they had taken possession of for them, and that only two Castles held out. viz. Castle- Rushed and Castle Peele, which were kept by the Forces of the Count of Derby: now because he had nothing in writing to confirm what he had said, he was disinherited; wherefore Maj. Fox was boated into the Island, to inquire the truth of what the Islander had reported, and forthwith returned with the full confirmation thereof; and presently after some came from the Island as Commissioners, entreating that their poor Island might be preserved from spoil, and the Inhabitants from undoing; by landing only some part of a Regiment, or at the most but a Regiment; upon which, they would bring Provisions at a marketable rate to the shore, 
The Isle of Man reduced.  to supply the wants of such as should continue on shipboard, and would assist those that were to land, in reducing the Castles: which Proposals were in part assented unto by the Commander in Chief Col. Duckenfield, being somewhat obliged thereto by the civilities of the people. But on the 27th. most of the men on shipboard were endangered by a long and continued storm, many of the Vessels not being able to ride in the Bay: one ran ashore and was bulged, but the men saved, many others were driven severally up and down; which dangers by sea and delays by land, the Castles still holding out, being sensible of. On the 28th. Horse and Foot were ordered to come on shore, and being possessed of all the Forts in the Island, they besieged both the Castles of Peele and Rushed, 
Castle Peele and Rushed taken.  in which the Countess of Derby then was, both which were presently summoned and brought to very low terms without any bloodshed; and delivered up to Col. Duckenfield for the use of the Parliament of England, Octob. 26. 1651. Where was found store of Ammunition and Provision of allsorts, and in the Harbour some Vessels also were taken: These Castles were of such strength, that if it had pleased God the defendants had not been possessed with a spirit of fear, much blood might have been spent in the reducing of them.  
In short space after there was surrendered to the Parliaments Forces, 
Cornet-Castle in Guernsey surrendered  that strong and impregnable hold of Cornet-Castle in the Isle of Guernsey.  
The next remarkable passages of the Affairs of this Nation, was the decease of two of the Parliaments Chieftains, one was General Popham one of the Admirals of the English-Fleet, a man of singular worth and gallantry; yet his short continuance in that employment, did not so much show us what he was, as what he would have been, had it pleased the great Disposer of all things to have prolonged his days.  
The other was the never to be forgotten Henry Ireton Lord Deputy of Ireland, under his Father in Law his Excellency the Lord. General Cromwell, who ended his days shortly after the siege and taking of Limrick in Ireland: a man who for piety, prudence and policy in Civil and Martial affairs, equalled, if not excelled the most of men: yet was there left behind such worthy Patriots and Champions of their Country, as upon all occasions have stood in the gap of the greatest difficulties.  
The Parliament (being now throughly sensible of the many delays, mischiefs and wrongs, for a long time and even now practised by the Hollanders, both in their Treaties and traffic) set forth an Act for increase of Shipping and encouragement of Navigation, which was the most pleasing and advantageous Act to the Merchants and Seamen that could be, and by which the hearts of those rough spirited men were more endeared to the Parliaments Interest, then by any thing they ever did or could do; the heads whereof were these;  
That no commodity whatsoever of the growth or Manufacture of Asia, 
The Act for Navigation.  Africa or America, or any part thereof, as well of the English Plantations as others, shall be imported into England, Ireland, or any the territories thereof, in any Ships or Vessels, but in such only as do truly belong to this Commonwealth or the Plantations thereof, under penalty of the forfeiture of Goods and Vessels, and of Europe the like.  
That no Commodities whatsoever of forregn growth or manufacture, which are to be brought into this Commonwealth in Ships belonging to the People thereof, shall be by them shipped from any places, but only from those of the said growth, production or manufacture; or from those Ports where the said Commodities can only be, or usually have been shipped for transportation, and from none other places.  
That no sorts of Fish, usually caught by the people of this Nation, nor any Oil made of Fish, nor any whale Finne or Whalebones, shall be imported, as abovesaid, but only such as shall be caught in Vessels belonging to the people of this Nation, under the former penalty.  
That no kinds of salted Fish, from the first of Feb. 1653. shall be exported out of this Land, in any other save English Vessels.  
Several other Exceptions and Prouisoes there was in reference to the Commodities of East-India, from the Levant Seas, from the Ports of Spain and Portugal: This is the substance of that Act which did so exceedingly perplex the avaricious, greedy and encroaching Hollander. Who notwithstanding set on foot another Treaty with the English, by sending Ambassadors extraordinary, and seeing they could not obtain their desires thereby, they assayed to do it by force and treachery: which machinations, God (in mercy to this poor Nation) by weak instruments, detected and turned upon their own heads: yet could they have procured the calling in of that Act, they would hardly have stuck at any other the demands of the English; but failing therein, they began to dispute that ancient and unquestionable Right of the English Sovereignty in the narrow Seas, by refusing to strike therein, for which they had the fortune to be always beaten, not thriving in any such contempt or bravado; upon which occasion began that sad breach between the two Republics, the effects whereof we yet feel and groan under; from which God in his good time will deliver us.  
For in May 1652. 
The first Sea-fight between the Dutch and the English.  Van Trump Admiral of the Dutch-Fleet, with about 42 sail of Ships, was discovered on the backside of the Goodwin-sands by Major Bourn, who commanded a squadron of the English Ships, the Dutch bearing towards Dover-Road: upon which the Greyhound Frigate was commanded to make sail and speak with them, which she did, and then they struck their top-sayl, demeaned themselves civilly and said, they came from Admiral Trump, with a Message to the Commander in Chief of the English Fleet: And coming aboard, they saluted our Ships, and in order to the satisfaction of our Nation, brought this account; That the Northerly winds having blown hard several days, they were forced further Southward than they intended, and having road for some days off Dunkirk, where they had lost divers Anchors and Cables, professing they intended no injury to the English Nation: Gen. Blake with the rest of the English Fleet, was at that time to the Westward; but receiving speedy advice of all these passages from Major Bourne, made what haste possibly he could to ply towards them; and on the 19th of May in the morning he saw them at Anchor about Dover-Roade, and being within three Leagues of them, they weighed and stood to the Eastward, where they met with an Express from the States: whereupon he hastened with all the sail he could make towards ours, and bore directly up with our Fleet, Van-Trumpe being the headmost.  
Upon which Gen. Blake shot three Guns at Vantrumps Flag, but without Balls, and Van-Trumpe answered with a Gun on the averse side of his Ship, signifying a disdain, and in stead of striking his top-sayl, hung out a red Flag, which was the signal for his whole Fleet, and gave Gen. Blake a broadside; this was the manner of the beginning of that Fight which hath caused so much trouble to the two Commonwealths; the continuance was for about 4 hours, until night parted them, in which fight one of the Dutch Ships was sunk, and another of 30 Guns taken, with the Captains of both and about 150 Prisoners; of the English there was about 10 slain and 40 wounded: the English Admiral received much hurt in her Masts, Sails and Riggin, many shot were likewise placed in her Hull, and the hurt that was done to the rest of the Fleet was not considerable.  
This attempt of the Duth while they were upon a Treaty, did so incense the Parliament, that notwithstanding all the addresses and overtures of their Ambassadors, and the coming over of two more, they could not appease them without satisfaction for that injury.  
Although in several Papers put in to the Council of State they laboured to excuse the same, alleging, That the unhappy Fight between the Ships of both Commonwealths, 
The Apology of the Dutch Ambassadors for the late affront offered to the English in the Downs.  did happen without the Knowledge, and against the Wills of the Lords States General of the Netherlands, taking God the searcher of men's hearts to witness the same: and that by Letters and Messages, they were daily assured of the sincerity of their said Lords, and that with grief and astonishment they received the fatal News of that unhappy rash action; and thereupon fell into consultation about a remedy to mitigate that raw and bloody wound: and to that end had appointed a solemn meeting of all the Provinces, whereby they doubted not (but by God's favour) such present cure for these troubles may be wrought, whereby not only the outward cause of all further evils, may be taken away, but also by an intern comfort, the minds may be redressed and reduced again, to a better hope of the Treaty in hand; and that this thing was most earnestly agitated by their Lords for the common good of both Nations, to shun the detestable shedding of Christian blood, so much desired by the enemies of both Nations: They therefore crave and beseech this Honourable Council, by the pledges of common Religion and Liberty, to suffer nothing to be done out of too much heat, that afterwards may prove neither revocable nor repairable, by too late idle vows and wishes; but that they might without delay receive a kind Answer; which they desire so much the more, because the Ships of their Lords and Shippers, as well in the broad Sea, as in the Ports of this Commonwealth, some by force, and some by fight are kept.  
Unto which the Parliament replied.  
That calling to mind with what continued demonstrations of friendship, 
The Parliaments Answer to and resolution thereupon.  they have demeaned themselves towards their Neighbours of the United Provinces, from the beginning of their intestine troubles, omitting nothing that might tend to a good correspondency with them, do find themselves much surprised with the unsuitable returns that have been made thereunto, and especially at the Acts of Hostility lately committed in the very roads of England, upon the Ships of this Commonwealth: Upon consideration of all which, and of the several Papers delivered by the Ambassadors into the Council of State, they farther answered: That as they would be willing to make a charitable construction of the expressions in the said Papers, endeavouring to represent the late Engagement of the Fleets, to have happened without the Knowledge and against the Mind of their Superiors; So when they consider how disagreeable to that Profession, the Revolutions and Actions of your State and their Ministers at Sea have been in the midst of a Treaty offered by themselves and managed here by their Ambassadors; the extraordinary preparations of an hundred and fifty sail of Ships, without any visible occasion, and the Instructions themselves given by the States to their Commanders at Sea; too much cause is found to believe, that the Lords the State's General of the United Provinces, have an Intention by force to usurp the known Right of England in the Seas, to destroy the Fleets that are (under God their Walls and Bulwarks,) and thereby to expose this Commonwealth to Invasion at their pleasure, as by their late Action they have attempted to do: Whereupon they Parliament conceive themselves obliged to endeavour, with God's assistance, as they shall have opportunity, to seek Reparation of the wrongs already suffered, and Security that the like be not attempted for the future. Nevertheless with this mind and desire, that all differences betwixt the Nations may (if possibly) be friendly and peaceably composed, as God shall open a way by his providence thereunto, and circumstances shall be conducing, to render such endeavours less dilatory, and more effectual than those of this kind heretofore usually have been.  
This short and smart answer contained yet something in it that tended to a possibility of an accommondation; 
The Dutch Ambassadors have audience and depart  yet all the several conferences and debates about this business came to nothing, but broke quite off, and in short space after the Ambassadors had audience in parliament, took their leaves and departed.  
And now these two mighty States prepare to offend each other, and accordingly Gen. Blake the English Admiral, with a gallant and resolute Fleet of Ships, advances Northward towards the Isles of Orkney, to seize upon and hinder all such as they should find fishing on those coasts; where he took 12 Dutch men of War guarding their Busses, but most of the Busses were let go.  
Sr George Ayscue with his Squadron of Ships being left to guard the narrow Seas, 
The Fight between the Dutch and English Fleets near Plymouth.  discovered a Fleet of Flemings between Dover and Calais, being about 30; of which 10 were taken and burnt, the rest ran ashore on the Coasts of France: Many other prizes were daily brought in (both of the Dutch and French) by the Ships and Frigates of this Commonwealth. Thence Sir George Ayscue with his Fleet sailed to the Westward, to seek out the Dutch Fleet, to guard the Seas, and to conduct the Merchantmen that lay at Plymouth through the Channel: and being about seven or eight Leagues off Plymouth, he received intelligence of the Dutch Fleet, and presently a Council of War was called, upon which they resolved to stand over for the Coast of France, as the most probable way to meet with them; and the same day being the 16 of Aug. between one and two in the afternoon, they had sight of the Dutch Fleet, and presently made what sail they could towards them, to discover their number, being about 60 sail of Men of War, and 30 Merchantmen: the English were but 38 sail, 4 Fireships, and 4 Scouts; yet they came up with the enemy about four in the afternoon, and began the fight with much resolution and gallantry; Sir George and about 6 other Ships, charging through the whole body of the enemy's Fleet, received much hurt in their Hulls, Masts, Sails and Rigging: yet did they tack-about, weather them, and charge them all again, and continued thus engaged in the body of the enemy's Fleet till it was dark night; and had not the rest of the English Captains failed to do their duties, this Dutch Fleet (in all likelihood) had been wholly defeated. In this engagement the English had some slain and some wounded, but of note they lost only Capt. Pack, whose Leg being shot off, he died soon after of it, who was an honest and valiant Seaman: there was wounded Capt. Lisle and Capt. Witheridge: a Fireship of theirs was sunk, also two other Ships of the enemies were supposed to be sunk, but what other loss they received an account could not be had: 
Both Fleets retire.  the darkness of the night put a period to the dispute, so that the Dutch stood away for the Coasts of France, and the English for the Port of Plymouth, to repair their Masts and Rigging, without which they could no further prosecute the enemy.  
During this engagement, Gen. Blake came from the Northward into the Downs, where there fell into his hands about six more considerable Dutch Prizes, and sent some Frigates to the Westward to reinforce Sir George Ayscues Fleet: Presently after this Capt. Penn with a squadron of Ships hover about the Coasts of France, surprised 6 Ships more belonging to the Dutch, which had been in the Duke of Venice service, and were now returned richly laden, all stout Ships of War and of great burden.  
Sep. 5. The English Fleet under Gen. Blake riding in the Downs, receiving intelligence of a French Fleet, weighed Anchor and stood over for the French Coasts; about 5 of the clock they descried them weighting Anchor in Calais road, thinking by that means to escape: the night approaching, the English chased them as fare as they durst for the Sands of Dunkirk, took most of them, and about midnight gave over: The Names of those taken were as follows.  
The Triton, commanded by Chevalier de Verdiel, a Ship of 31 Guns, in which was Monsieur Bimulet Commander in Chief of all the Fleet.  
The Shepherd, commanded by Chevalier Boymerant of 29 Guns.  
The gift of God, commanded by Chevalier de la Charta of 30 Guns.  
The Duchess, commanded by Monsieur de la Roch of 22 Guns.  
The Crescent, commanded by Monsieur de la Viel Dean of 26 Guns.  
The Hunter, commanded by Monsieur de la Gicleck of 22 Guns.  
The St Lewis, commanded by Monsieur de la Gory of 28 Guns.  
A small Frigate of 8 Guns.  
Six Fireships.  
This French Fleet was bound to touch at Calais, there to take in Provisions and Men for the Relief of Dunkirk: but the English thus intercepting them, the Dunkirkers despaired of any relief, and yielded it up to the Spaniards; the like also did Gravelling: this did in part retaliate for those great losses and injuries the English had sustained from the French.  
Sep. 27. Gen. Blake with his Fleet, 
The Fight between the Dutch and the English Fleets, called The Kentishh knock.  discovered on the backside of the Goodwin Sands, about 60 sail of Dutch men of War, under the command of Admiral De Wit: on the 28, Gen. Blake with his Fleet got under-sail and bore in among the enemy, but being upon a Sand called the Kentish Knock (under which the Dutch placed themselves, that the English might be mischieved if they should endeavour the weather-gage,) they found they had not three fathom water, insomuch that the General's Ship, the Sovereign, the Resolution, the Andrew and others were on ground, but without any harm; they all got presently off, fell to the business again, and stayed by the enemy till night parted: After this dispute the Dutch abode all night at some distance to Leeward of the English, as if they had an intention to engage again. Next morning Sep. 29. at day break, the Dutch Fleet was seen about two League's North-east of the English; who (though there was but little wind and various) bore after them all the forenoon, but the wind coming to North and B. West, they could not get up to them: yet some of the best Frigates were commanded to bear up as near the Dutch as they could, and to keep them in play till the rest of the Fleet could get up; and with much ado about three a clock got within shot of the enemy, who fearing that by degrees the English Fleet would get within them, 
The Dutch are shamefully worsted.  set up their main sails and ran for it, after whom about 10 Frigates had the chase till six a clock that night. Next morning Sept. 30. the English bore after them again with a fresh gale at S. W. and pursued them until they had sight of West-Gabell in Zealand, and saw them run into Goree. Hereupon the English concluded at a Council of War, not to run further upon the Coasts of Holland, as well to avoid the shallows, as because of the want of Provision in the Fleet.  
The loss that the Dutch apparently sustained was, that three of their Ships were disabled in the first encounter, all their Masts being cut down, others of them lost their heads, and others their Bolt-sprit-masts and Yards, the Dutch rear-admiral being towed by a Flyboat of 32 Guns, was boarded by the None-such Frigate with 30 men, and the Flyboat with 30 more, but there being water in the hold, and wanting Masts and Sails, he took the rear-admiral, the Captain and about 80 men out of them, and left the Vessels with the dead men floating in the Sea: Of the English the loss was not great, about 40 being slain, and about 40 wounded; in such shameful sort were the Dutch defeated, who were so mighty at Sea, that they were a terror to the whole Universe.  
The fame of this unhappy breach between two such Potent States, quickly spread itself into all places, that were any whit eminent for trade or commerce, and the effects thereof were both seen and heard in the Mediterranean Sea, as well as in the English Channel, whether the English had sent several Ships of War, to secure their Merchants from the French Pirates of Toulon, Marsiellis, etc. A squadron whereof of 4 sail, viz. the Paragon, Phoenix, Constant Warwick and Elizabeth (having under convoy three Merchants Ships, two from Scandarone, 
Four Enlish men of War are worsted by eleven Dutch men of War in the straits.  and one from Smyrna) met with 11 sail of Dutch men of War, who presently came up with the English and began the engagement, but night came on and parted them: next morning the Dutch began again, and sound as hot work as can be imagined from so small a number, two of their main top-masts being shot down, and one of their Ships fired, but afterwards quenched: the Phoenix a stout English Frigate of 45 Guns, 
the Phoenix Frigate is taken by the Dutch.  was clapped on board by a heavy Dutch Ship, the men overpowr'd and the Ship taken. Of this petty success the Dutch exceedingly boasted: yet they bought it dearly, and that by their number, not their valour; the English not giving out so long as they had Men or munition; for the Paragon lost 27 Men, and had about 60 wounded; the Elizabeth had but two barrels of Powder left, so hard they plied it, and to such stress were they put: Yet in despite of their Adversaries, they got safe with their Merchants into Portolongone; this fight was near the Island of Corsica.   

Upon the nick of this breach came into England an Ambassador from the Queen of Sweden, where he ended his life before he effected any thing: another also from the King of Denmark, who being a contemporary and confederate with the States of Holland, durst not but dance after their Pipe, and as soon as the ghastly wound between the two States began to fester, he departed the Land.  
About which time the Parliament (considering the condition of the English Merchants trading into the East Country, whose Ships (to avoid the danger of the Dutch men of War, then in the Sound) had put themselves into the protection of the King of Denmark, but durst not venture home without a Convoy) sent a Fleet of 18 men of War of good force to fetch them home, being in number 22, and laden with such Commodities as the English had special occasion for, and without which they could not prosecute the war with the Dutch. Accordingly, Sept. 1●th. they set sail out of Yarmouth road, and on the 20th. they came to an Anchor within two Leagues of Elsenore-Castle; whence the Commander in chief sent a Letter to the Governor of Elsenore, by the Greyhound Frigate, and another to the Danish Admiral, to desire them to acquaint the King with their coming, and for what; with a Letter to the Merchants and Masters of the English Ships at at Copenhagen, to address themselves to the King, for the speedy release of their Ships, then shut up within the Boomes and Copenhagen: but a mile short of the Castle the Ship was stopped. Next morning the Captain went up with his Boat, and delivered his Message and Letters, which availed nothing: so that another was sent to the Merchants, and a Messenger to the King, but without success; for he could not be admitted to speech with or sight of him: At length two Lord were sent to Elsenore, unto whom two English Captains repaired, and urged the restoring the Ships; and instead of answering to the business, they asked, 
The several transactions between the English and King of Denmark.  Why their Ambassador had not audience? Whether they had a Letter from the State of England to their King? Why they came so boldly upon his Majesty's Streams, and so near his House and Castle with such a mighty Fleet, without three week's notice beforehand? All these being impertinent to the business, a positive answer was urged by the English: and on the 26th. of Sept. they received a Letter from the King, That he would secure them for the Merchants as carefully as he had done, but would not deliver them to them: Whereupon the Merchants and Seamen being destitute of all hopes of the releasement of their Ships, lest them and came home with this Fleet: who on the 27th of Sept. left the Sound, and steered their course for Enggland, and on the last of Sept. the Admiral of the Fleet commanded by Capt. Ball, ran on shore on the Coast of Shutland, and was there lost, but her men saved: this Ship carrying the light, it was miraculous that the rest of the Fleet were not all lost: this Ship was called the Antelope, an excellent Frigate, and carried above 50 brass Guns: a little after that they took about 20 Busses, a Dutch man of War, and a Freebooter of 20 Guns; and on the 15th of Octob. arrived safe in Burlington Bay.  
Not long after this an Agent, by Name Bradshaw, was sent to the King of Denmark, so see if yet by fair means, they could obtain their desires; but in vain: for he did not only detain the Ships, but at length unladed them and sold the Goods. Which incivilities towerds those that never injured him in the least, but desired by all fair means, to enter into Amity with him; may one day (by the good providence of God) be requited and avenged.  
The Hollanders (drunk with rage, and greedy of revenge for those rubs the English had lately given them, and for the continual loss of their Ships daily surprised and in great numbers brought into our Channel) used their utmost care and industry in rigging and setting forth their Fleet: which (notwithstanding the season of the year.) they effected; and Decemb. 20th. they appeared on the backside of Goodwin Sands, being 90 men of War, and ●o Fireships; the English under Gen. Blake were but 42, and not half of them man'd, most of the best Ships being laid up when there was most need of them: which default (without doubt) was caused through the improvident, treacherous, sinister and slothful actings of such as then steered the helm of this State, whom God (in his due time) will bring to a reckoning for their miscarriages: The English notwithstanding the paucity of their number, 
The Dutch & English engage, and the English are worsted.  resolved to go out and fight them: and Nou. 30th. being fair weather, both Fleets plied to the Westward, and about eleven of the clock that day were both engaged, the English having got the Weathergage: in this fight half of the English Fleet (as small as it was) came not up, pretending want of Men, insomuch that a few Ships of the English bore the brunt of that fight with the whole Fleet of the Dutch; the Vanguard and the Victory engaging with 20 of the Dutch from first to last, and yet got clear of them all. In the evening the Garland, 
The Garland and Bonadventure are taken.  an English Ship of above 40 Guns, was boarded by two Dutch Flag-Ships, and after she had blown up her decks, for want of men was taken. The Bonadventure (a Merchant's Ship) attempting to relieve the Garland, was boarded, yet cleared her decks several times, the Captain whereof being slain, the Ship was at length taken: Gen. Blake going in the Triumph to relieve the Garland, had his foretopmast shot by the board, was twice boarded, and yet got off safe, as did all the rest except the two aforementioned, which though they fetched not fare yet dearly bought: two other Ships likewise fell into the hands of the Dutch presently after the Fight, but both Merchant's Ships. Gen. Blake upon this with his Fleet withdrew into Lee-road, to be reinforced with Ships and Men. This Victory, such as you have heard, made the Dutch greatly rejoice and insult; such is the vanity and levity of those which gaze on the mere outside of things, as they present themselves at first view: Nay by their Ambassadors they made the news thereof to echo in most of the Prince's Courts in Christendom: Mirum autem quantum fama popularis addidit fabulae.  
But the English like a Bear rob of her whelps, and awakened at this sudden eclipse of their glory, splendour and wont valour, betook themselves to new resolutions for the quickening out a considerable Fleet, whereby to allay the soaring pride of their adversaries, and to stifle those unruly clamours and general discontents of the people every where murmuring and inveighing against their Governors, as if they had (by secret and clandestine designs) contrived the ruin of the Nation by a destruction of the Fleet.  
And first they took into consideration, what due encouragement was fit to be given to Mariners and Seamen: and ordered,  
That the Wages of every able Seaman, fit for the helm and head, top and yard, should be advanced from 18 the month, to 23 the month, and all the rest proportionable.  
That for every Prize they shall take, and shall be so adjudged in the Court of Admiralty, they shall have Ten Shillings for every Tun the said Ship shall measure; and six Pounds ten Shillings four Pence for every piece of Ordnance, whether Iron or brass, to be shared and divided amongst them proportionably, according to their places and Offices in the Ship: and that they shall have all Pillage they shall find upon or above the Gun-deck of any such Prize.  
That they shall have ten Pounds a Gun, for every man of War they shall sink or destroy, by Fire or otherwise, to be divided as aforesaid, with a months gratis money to all that shall voluntarily come into their Service within 40 days.  
That for supplying of necessary Provisions unto sick and wounded men aboard, there be allowed five Pounds for six month's service for every hundred men. That care be taken upon their discharge for the payment of their Tickets and Conduct money.  
That a convenient house be provided in or near Dover, Deale or Sandwich, as an Hospital for the accommodation of such wounded men, as shall be there set on shore. These with several other branches of the like nature, were printed and published, to the great satisfaction of the Seamen: insomuch that towards the latter end of Febr. 1653, the English had a brave and resolute Fleet out at Sea; notwithstanding all the care and industry of the Hollanders, to hinder all Nations from bringing any Pitch, Tar or Masts into this Common-weath.  
Febr. 18th. 
The English and Dutch Fleets engage near the Isle of Wight and Portland.  The Dutch Fleet in number about 80, with about 150 Merchantmen from Rouen, Nants and Bourdeaux, were discovered between the Isle of Wight and Portland: and about 8 in the morning, the headmost of the English Fleet came up and engaged them, viz. the Triumph, where was Gen. Blake Gen. Dean, with three or four more; the rest were not able to get up, being to the Leeward: so that them few were constrained to bear the first brunt, holding play with no less than 30 of the Dutch men of War, and thus it continued till two a clock in the afternoon; after which about half the English Fleet came up and engaged the Dutch till the night parted: In this fight the English lost none save the Samson; a Dutch Prize, which being made unserviceable, was sunk by themselves, the men being all taken out and saved, which Ship first sunk the enemy that maimed her.  
Febr. 19 The English made towards the Dutch, and followed them upon the chase a good while, in which days service some of the enemy's Ships were brought by the Lee and destroyed.  
Febr. 20. They engaged the Dutch again, and the dispute grew hot, insomuch that the enemy began to fire out of their stern-most ports and make away, so that divers of their Merchant's Ships fell into the hands of the English: at evening the English Fleet being against Boulogne in France, and not fare from the shore, the wind at N. N. west, which was bad for them to get to their own shore; they endeavoured by haling upon a tack, to get Dover-Road; but many of their Ships, having their Sails and rigging much tattered and torn, they came to an Anchor.  
The English in this fight took about 50 Merchants, and 9 men of War, several of their men of War were likewise sunk by the English, beside what the enemy themselves sunk that were made unserviceable, and by Letters out of France, it was certified also that above 2000 dead bodies of the Dutch were seen upon the French shores. Presently after this hot and terrible fight, there was 1500 taken Prisoners and brought to London. Gen. Blake was wounded in this engagement, several other Commanders of the English, of eminent worth and gallantry, were slain and wounded also. Now though a particular account of the Dutch loss could never yet be fully known, yet without all question it was as sad and dreadful a loss to that State as they ever yet knew, for which let Gods Name alone be magnified: and though I am none of those, Qui malis gaudeo alienis, yet seeing (that by a kind of fatal necessity) the strokes of adverse fortune must fall heavy somewhere, we ought with hands lifted up to bless God for our deliverance.  
The Dutch being deeply sensible of this loss, sent a Letter to the Parliament of England, yet signed only by the States of Holland and West-Friesland: in answer to which the Parliament a Letter, signifying their desire of a friendly compliance, for the avoiding the further shedding of Christian blood, but nothing came thereon.  
But lest the English should surfeit with excess of joy for their late Victories over their enemies; God was pleased to give them a check, by an unexpected defeat of their Ships in the Levant-Seas, which was as follows.  
The English (having by a stratagem regained the Phoenix Frigate from the Dutch as she lay in Levorn Mole) fitted themselves for another encounter with the Dutch: Capt. Badiley with 9 men of War weighed out of Portolongone, towards the relief of those other Ships under Capt. Apleton that lay in Levorne Mole) and for several months had been cooped up by 22 men of War; hereupon the English Ships under Capt. Apleton weighed out of the Mole, 
The English Fleet in the Levant Seas, are again worsted by the Dutch.  a little sooner than they should have done, and were presently engaged by the whole Fleet of the Dutch, who having the advantage of the wind, with their Admiral and two other Ships, clapped the Leopard aboard, a stout English Ship of above 50 Guns, who bravely maintained the fight at least 5 hours against them all, till at length being overborne by the number of the enemy she was taken.  
The Bonadventure, by a shot in her Powder room, took fire and was blown up.  
The Peregrine was engaged with four or five of the Dutch at a time, and having her mainmast and misen-mast shot away, and being overpowr'd with number was taken.  
The Levant-Merchant was first boarded by one of the enemy's Ships of 36 Guns, and (after two hours fight) by another as big, the first of which sunk presently after; yet was she also possessed by the Dutch.  
The Samson was boarded by young Trump Rear Admiral of the Dutch on one side, and by a fireship on the other, so that she was quickly fired.  
This was the greatest loss the English have sustained from the Dutch since the breach, and was done in the sight of 9 English men of War under Capt. Badiley, who (I cannot say) would not, but I am sure did not vouchsafe those stout hearts that there perished the least assistance, for which he hath been since branded with the infamous terms of Cowardice, Covetousness and Treachery; from which imputations it is wished he could clear himself, in the sight of God and men.  
The relation wherein this Commonwealth stood with the Neighbouring Nations was in this sort,  
The King of Portugal not able to resist so powerful a state as this (having more then enough to do, 
The King of Portugal and the State of England conclude a peace.  to grapple with the wealthy Spaniard) sent over an Ambassador extraordinary with a sumptuous train of followers to conclude a peace with the English: who (after many conferences, frequent addresses, and large offers made) obtained the same; yet to this day he hath not fully finished his Negotiations, so as to satisfy the Merchants for their great losses.  
From France the English were courted by two Parties: 
A French Agent arrives at London.  by an Agent from the King of France, desiring a release of his ships taken (as aforesaid) going to the relief of Dunkirk, as also that there might be a right understanding between the 2 Nations. 
4 Deputies from Bourdeaux arrive at London also.  And by 4 Deputies from the Prince of Conde, craving aid against the Cardinal and his creatures, who had straight besieged the City of Bourdeaux: all which Negotiations were ineffectual, for alas the breach was too high between the a Nations to be easily cemented.  
Other Nations by Letters and otherwise endeavoured to be mediators and composers of those mortal jars that were between England and Holland; as the Queen of Sweden, the Cantous of Switzerland, the Imperial Cities of Lubeck and Hamburgh, etc.  
This was the posture of the Civil and Military affairs of this Nation, when his Excellency the Lord General Cromwell (a man as it were by Divine appointment set apart for great enterprises) perceiving the notorious corruptions, dilatory proceed, pernicious and arbitrary actings of the Parliament, to perpetuate their session, and to enthral the people (by defrauding and disfranchising them of their ancient and undoubted Liberties of equal and successive Representatives) entered the Parliament house, attended with some of his principal Officers, and there delivered certain reasons why a period ought to be put to that Parliament; which was presently done, 
The Parliament is dissolved.  the Speaker with the rest of the Members (some by force, some through fear, and some murmuring) departed the House. For which disaster no man moved either tongue or hand in their behalf, it being generally believed, that though the Nation possibly might not be bettered by this changed, yet a worse could not befall it. And thus was this mighty Council dissolved, their Powers transferred into the hands of the Soldiery, and their Names reproached and vilified with the scorns and dirigies of the common people, who being well pleased with the doing thereof, enquired not into the reasons or causes why it was done. But to satisfy the wiser sort, and those that were more curious enquirers into the true and genuine causes of things, General Cromwell and his Council of Officers published a Declaration, the substance whereof was as follows.  
THat after God was pleased marvellously to appear for his people, 
The Declaration of Gen. Cromwell and his Council of Officers  in reducing Ireland and Scotland to so great a degree of peace, and England to perfect quiet; whereby the Parliament had opportunity to give the people the harvest of all their labour, blood and treasure; and to settle a due Liberty in reference to Civil and Spiritual things: whereunto they were obliged by their duty, engagements, and those great and wonderful things God hath wrought for them. But they made so little progress therein that it was matter of much grief to the good people of the Land; who thereupon applied themselves to the Army, expecting redress by their means, who (though unwilling to meddle with the Civil Authority) agreed that such Officers as were Members of Parliament should move them to proceed vigorously, in reforming what was amiss in the Commonwealth, and in settling it upon a foundation of Justice and Righteousness, which being done, it was hoped the Parliament would have answered their expectations.  
But finding the contrary, they renewed their desires by an humble Petition in Aug. 1652. which produced no considerable effect, nor was any such progress made therein, as might imply their real intentions to accomplish what was petitioned for; but rather an averseness to the things themselves, with much bitterness and opposition to the people of God and his Spirit acting in them: in so much that the godly Party in Parliament were rendered of no further use, then to countenance the ends of a corrupt Party, for effecting their desires of perpetuating themselves in the supreme Government.  
For obviating these evils the Officers of the Army obtained several meetings with some of the Parliament, to consider what remedy might be applied to prevent the same; but such endeavours proving ineffectual, it became evident, that this Parliament, through the corruption of some, the jealousy of others, the non-attendance of many, would never answer those ends which God, his People and the whole Nation expected from them; But that this cause which God had so greatly blessed, must needs languish under their hands, and by degrees be lost; and the Lives, Liberties and Comforts of his people be delivered into their enemy's hands.  
All which being sadly and seriously considered by the honest people of the Nation as well as by the Army, it seemed a duty incumbent upon us, who had seen so much of the power and presence of God, to consider of some effectual means whereby to establish righteousness and peace in these Nations.  
And after much debate it was judged necessary, that the supreme Government should be by the Parliament devolved upon known persons fearing God and of approved integrity for a time, as the most hopeful way to countenance all God's people, reform the Law, and administer Justice impartially: hoping thereby the people might forget Monarchy, and understand their true interest in the election of successive Parliaments; that so the Government might be settled upon a right Basis, without hazard to this glorious cause, or necessitating to keep up Armies for the defence of the same.  
And being still resolved to use all means possible to avoid extraordinary courses, we prevalied with about 20 Members of Parliament, to give us a conference, with whom we plainly debated the necessity and justness of our Proposals: The which found no acceptance, but in stead thereof it was offered that the way was to continue still this Parliament, as being that from which we might probably expect all good things. This being vehemently insisted on did much confirm us in our apprehensions; That not any love to a Representative, but the making use thereof to recruit, and so to perpetuate themselves, was their aim, in the Act they had then under consideration.  
For preventing the consummating whereof, and all the sad and evil consequences, which upon the grounds aforesaid must have ensued, and whereby at one blow the interest of all honest men and of this glorious cause had been endangered to be laid in the dust, and these Nations embroiled in new troubles, at a time when our enemies abroad are watching all advantages against, and some of them actually engaged in War with us; we have been necessitated (though with much reluctancy) to put an end to this Parliament.  
This Declaration and proceed of Gen. Cromwell and his Council of Officers, was attended with the consent of the Generals and all the Captains of the Fleet, as also of the Generals and Officers of all the land Forces in Ireland and Scotland.  
But least the Magistrates, and other public Ministers of the Nation, should be startled at this sudden change, so as to swerve from their duties; or others should take occasion thereby to make disturbances in the Commonwealth, this following Declaration was published.  
WHereas the Parliament being dissolved, Persons of approved fidelity and honesty, are (according to the late Declaration of the 22th of April last) to be called from the several parts of this Commonwealth to the supreme Authority; and although effectual proceed are and have been had for perfecting those resolutions; yet some convenient time being required for the assembling of those persons, it hath been found necessary for preventing the mischiefs and inconveniences which may arise in the mean while to the public affairs, that a Council of State be constituted, to take care of and intent, the peace, safety and present management of the affairs of his Commonwealth: which being settled accordingly, the same is hereby declared and published, to the end all persons may take notice thereof, and in their several places and stations demean themselves peaceably, giving obedience to the Laws of the Nation as heretofore: in the exercise and administation whereof, as endeavours shall be used, that no oppression or wrong be done to the people, so a strict account will be required, of all such as shall do any thing to endanger the public peace and quiet upon any pretence whatsoever.  
April 30th 1653. O. CROMWELL.  
These Domestic revolutions did in some measure heighten the spirits of the Dutch, who thought that some eminent distractions and commotions (both by sea and land) would thereupon ensue: but they were much deceived; for the Maritime affairs of these Nations (wherein the woe or weal thereof consisted) were carried on with as much dexterity, policy and speed, as the necessity and urgency of the occasion did require.  
Now the Dutch having a great Fleet of Merchant's Ships outward bound, durst not adventure through the Channel; but with a Fleet of about 90 Men of War, conducted them by the North of Scotland towards the Sound, and there met with another Fleet of their Merchant men homewards bound, some from Russia, some from the East-Indies, and some from France: all which they conveyed home in safety, not having met with the English Fleet either goig or coming: which having done, and hearing that the English Fleet was to the Northwards, they set sail with their Fleet and came into the Downs, where they took two or three small vessels, and made several shot into the Town of Dover, with which bravadoes they greatly delighted themselves, and boasted that the English Fleet was lost, that Hue and Cry must be sent after them, and such like speeches they vented and vaunted with: when on a sudden the English Fleet arrived from the Northwards, and on the 28th. of May came into Yarmouth Roade. June 1. Being at Anchor in Sole Bay, they discovered two Dutch galliot Hoys, to which chase was given till the whole Dutch Fleet was discovered, but the weather proving dark they lost sight of them. June 3. 
The Fight between the Dutch and English Fleets off the North-foreland.  The English Fleet (being at Anchor without the Southhead of the Gober) discovered the enemy about two leagues to Leeward, being about 100 sail: whereupon the English weighed and made sail towards them; between 11 and 12 at noon both Fleets were engaged, and for some hours the dispute was sharp, insomuch that about 6 a clock in the evening the enemy bore right away before the wind, 
The Dutch are worsted, and many of their Ships sunk and taken.  little more being done that night. Next morning early, the English were fair by the Dutch again; but there being little wind, it was noon ere they could engage them, and after four hours dispute, the Dutch endeavoured as fast as they could to get away; but the wind freshing westwardly, the English bore in so hard among them, that they took 11 Men of War, and 2 water-Hoyes, 6 Captains, 1500 Prisoners, and sunk 6 Men of War more; the rest of the Dutch Fleet (if night had not prevented) would probably have been cut off; but darkness coming on, and being near the Flats, and necessitated to stay and mend their sails and rigging, which were much shattered and torn, they came to an Anchor about 10 a clock that night. The loss which the English sustained in this fight, was of Gen. Dean one of their Admirals, who with a great shot was taken off the first day's engagement, one Capt. they lost beside, they had slain at the uttermost not above 150 men, and about 240 wounded, but they lost not one Ship. That which greatly animated the English, and discouraged the Dutch, was the opportune and seasonable coming in of Gen. Blake with about 16 sail of stout Men of War. The Dutch having (by the advantage of the night) got into the Wielings, the Ulye and the Texel; the English called a Council of all the Captains of the Fleet, to advise what was the most convenient course for improvement of the victory to the best advantage: where it was resolved to make what sail they could with the whole Fleet towards the Wielings, so far as with safety they might, and so range the Dutch Coast till they came to the Texel, where they lay for a pretty space of time, taking Prizes continually more or less, to the woeful prejudice of the Dutch, whose Ships could in that while neither go out nor come in, nor get together in any one Port, whereby to unite and get to a head: in which condition I shall for the present leave them.  
Gen. Cromwell and his Council of Officers having finished their consultations and resolutions about those Persons to whom the Ligislative Power of the Nation was to be committed; Warrants were issued out to each person so chosen in the three Nations, to appear at the Councel-Chamber at Whitehall July 4th 1653. a Copy whereof follows:  
FOrasmuch as upon the dissolution of the late Parliament it became necessary, that the peace, safety and good government of this Commonwealth should be provided for; and in order thereunto, divers persons fearing God, and of approved fidelity and honesty, are by myself, with the advice of my Council of Officers, nominated; to whom the great charge and trust of so weighty affairs is to be committed. And having good assuance of your love to, and courage for God, and the Interest of his Cause, and the good people of this Commonwealth.  
I Oliver Cromwell, Capt. General and Commander in chief of all the Armies and Forces raised and to be raised within this Commonwealth, do hereby summon and require you (being of the Persons nominated) personally to be and appear at the Councel-Chamber, commonly known or called by the name of the Councel-Chamber at Whitehall, within the City of Westminster, upon the 4th day of July next ensuing the date hereof, and then and there to take upon you the said trust, unto which you are hereby called and appointed, to serve as a Member for the County of _____ And hereof you are not to fail.  
Given under my hand and Seal the _____ day of June 1653. O. CROMWELL.  
July 4th the several Members met accordingly in the Councel-Chamber, where was the Lord Gen. Cromwell and many of his Officers about him, who standing up, made an excellent, useful and seasonable Speech unto them; recounting the many wonderful mercies of God towards this Nation, and the continued series of providences by which he had appeared, in carrying on this Cause, and bringing affairs into the present condition.  
He set forth likewise the progress of affairs since the famous victory at Worcester, as also the actings of the Army thereupon, after divers applications to the Parliament, and much waiting upon them, with the grounds and necessity of their dissolving the late Parliament, which he declared to be for the preservation of this Cause, and the interest of all honest men who have been engaged therein.  
He in like manner held forth the clearness of the Call given to the Members then present, to take upon them the supreme Authority: and from the Scriptures exhorted them to their duties, and encouraged them therein: He further desired them that a tenderness might be used towards all conscientious persons of what judgement soever.  
Which having ended, his Excellency produced an Instrument under his own hand and Seal, whereby he did with the advice of his Officers, devolve and intrust the Supreme Authority and Government of this Commonwealth, into the hands of the Persons there met, Who, or any forty of them, are to be held and acknowledged the Supreme Authority of the Nation; unto whom all persons within the same, and the territories thereunto belonging, are to yield obedience and subjection. And that they sit no longer than the 3d of Novemb. 1654. And three months before their dissolution, they were to make choice of other Persons to succeed them, who were not to sit above a twelvemonth, and then to take care for a succession in Government. Which Instrument being delivered to the Members, his Lordship commended them to God, and with his Officers withdrew. From thence the Members adjourned forthwith to the old Parliament house, and there sat de die in diem.  
About this time John Lilburne (of whom I have already made mention) being a few months before banished the Land, by an Act of the foregoing Parliament, for certain crimes laid to his charge; took occasion upon this change of Government to come into England, and cast himself upon his Excellency the Lord Gen. Cromwell, craving his protection in several public addresses; who unwilling to interpose or meddle with affairs of that nature, left him to the Law: insomuch that he was committed to Newgate, 
John Lilburn tried at the Sessions in the Old-Baily.  and the next Sessions or Goal-delivery, he was brought to trial in the Old-Baily, July 13. but nothing was done that day, save that Council was assigned him according to his demand. July 14. he was again brought to the Bar, but refused to put in his Plea, unless he might have a copy of his Indictment, which was at length granted him. July 15. he appeared at the Bar again, but little was done that day. July 16. he appeared and delivered in divers Exceptions to the Bill of Indictment, which were signed by his Council and received by the Court; which day the Sessions ended, so that the business was put off to the next Sessions. Aug. 13. he appeared before the Bench again, and put in an Exception, demanding an Oyer of the Judgement given against him in Parliament, as well as of the Act grounded thereupon. Aug. 16. he appeared again, the Point argued on both sides, but nothing more was done that day. Aug. 20. he was again brought before the Court, where he joined issue, and pleaded Not guilty; whereupon a Jury was impanneled, and Witnesses examined to make good the Charge; as also Witnesses on the behalf of the Prisoner, who in making his defence, held the Court several hours; and in answer thereunto the Council for the Commonwealth were also heard: The Jury having the Charge, after hearing the whole business withdrew, and about 12 of the clock that night delivered up their verdict, That they found him Not guilty: 
Is quit ●● by the Jury.  whereupon he was sent back to Newgate, and soon after was from thence sent to the Tower, where he yet remains.  
Thus you see what endeavours were used to rid the Nation of this inconsiderable fellow, by Tyals, Banishment, and what not, but hitherto in vain! whenas many a gallant Heart, fare transcending him in birth and parts, have fallen by the sword of Justice in the twinkling of an eye! But it may be God hath reserved him to be a greater plague to this Nation, whose heart I fear is the seedplot of sedition and division: True it is, he is a man of a penetrating judgement, quick wit and voluble tongue, bold and confident in all his undertake: he is likewise peevish and passionate out of measure; affects popularity, and is of an implacable spirit, not to be appeased but with the blood of his adversaries: Nor can I deny but some of those things he aimed at were honest and useful for the people, but he steered not the right course to attain those ends.  
The condition of the English affairs in Scotland was now much after this sort; although the English had got into their possession, most or all of the strong Towns, Forts and Castles in the Lowlands, yet many incursions were made thereinto by the Highlanders and such like lose and barbarous people, committing many outrages, spoils and cruel murders upon the people and soldiers in straggling parties; 
The state of Scotland.  and forthwith would betake themselves to such inaccessible fastnesses, that they could not be pursued: The like they do yet daily in great numbers, and are headed by Glencarne, Athol, Seafort and others; the last of which was so bold as to send a Summons to a Ship that lay at Anchor at Lewis Island (having before surprised 7 or 8 men that went ashore for Provisions) which Summons is as follows.  
A Copy of the Summons.  
BEing incited, not only by Conscience and Honour, to stand firm to the Principles of Loyalty; but also disdaining even in rational interest, to stoop to such a wavering and servile Power as now Ruleth; I have laid hold on those men come ashore, as promoving the same: Wherefore I summon you to deliver your Vessel for his Majesty's service; and being certainly persuaded, that all or most part of you are with grief of heart employed in such service; I do assure all that will voluntarily shun the unnecessary effusion of blood by that surrender, shall have such fair quarter as is fitting for me to grant, and as your several conditions do require, and according to your demeanours herein, you may expect to find me your Friend accordingly.  
For the Captain, Soldiers, Master and Mariners of the Fortune, These  
SEAFORT.  
The affairs of Ireland were much after the same pass: 
The state of Ireland.  for the English having reduced all the strong holds of that Country, and shipped away most of those Irish Rebels that (according to Proclamation) came in by such a time, for Spain and other parts; except such as were found guilty of massacre of the Protestants at the first rebellion, who were in several places of that Nation tried, condemned and executed, in great numbers) drove the rest of the Irish into the Province of Conaught, and fell to approportion out the Land of the other three Provinces, for the satisfaction of the Adventurers, and of the arrears of the Soldiery; but are in some measure still molested by the outlaws of that Nation the Tories, Cousin-germen to the ancient Picts and Redshanks of Scotland, and the Banditi in Italy.  
The Hollanders (perceiving that nothing was to be got of the English but blows, and sensible of their great losses) sent four Commissioners into England, to set on foot the Treaty again, viz. Monsieur Bevering, Newport, Young stall, and Vanderparre, who soon after his arrival departed this life: the rest pursued their negotiations so close, that we are not left altogether without hopes of an accommodation. Yet did not this Treaty produce either a cessation, or any intermission of Arms; but all manner of hostility was exercised on both sides, as appeared by another remarkable fight between the two Fleets during the Treaty, which it is like much quickened the same, the manner whereof was thus:  
July 29. The English Scouts discovered a Dutch Fleet from the Wielings of about 95 sail of Men of War, upon which the English Fleet made what sail they could after them, which the enemy discerning stood away; yet by five a clock that evening, some of the English Frigates engaged them, and soon after 30 Ships or thereabouts got up and engaged, the rest of the Fleet being astern; those few bearing the whole brunt of the day's fight, till night came and forced both Fleets to retire: the Dutch were so plied in this first day's engagement, that they were discovered to send away some of their maimed Ships in the night, and with their whole Fleet got by, striving to make a conjunction with 25 sail of stout Ships they expected out of the Texil; which by plying up towards them (undiscerned by the English) they obtained: which conjunction the English (by reason of thick and foul weather) could not hinder by engagement nor otherwise. 
The Dutch & English Fleets engage.  Next morning the Dutch with their new recruits, fell upon the English Fleet in a gallant posture, and fought courageously from 5 a clock in the morning till one in the afternoon, both Fleets passing through each other with much violence, endeavouring to burn, sink and destroy one another, as if the whole business should have been decided by the event of this battle: yet the Dutch never went off, but with the loss of some of their Ships which were either sunk or burnt; The Garland a stout Man of War (which the Dutch had formerly taken from the English) was laid aboard by the Worcester Frigate and burnt: The Triumph and the Andrew were clapped aboard by two or three Dutch fireships, and received some hurt in their sails, but were quickly cleared of them, by the valour and industry of some paticular men: 
The Dutch are put to flight, and many of their ships sunk.  The Dutch seeing themselves in a declining posture, many of their Ships being sunk and burnt, and unwilling to abide a further hazard (their spirits being daunted) began to bear away with all the sail they could make, and made directly for the Texel; so that it was not thought convenient by the English, to be too bold with the shore, not knowing how the wind might take them, many of their Ships being disabled; but one or two small English vessels kept sight of them till morning, and saw them steer into the Texel Harbour, Having Boats with lights to show them the way in. Whereupon the English at a Council of War, resolved that the whole Fleet should set sail for Solebay, to dispose of such Ships as were disabled, as also of their wounded men and Prisoners. The loss which the English received at this fight, was as follows; 300 Men were slain outright, whereof 7 Captains, Graves, Chapman, Taylor, Newman, Crisp, Owen Cox and Capt. Peacock: they had also 700 wounded, of which 5 Captains, Stokes, Seaman, Rous, Holland and Cubit. The particular loss which the Dutch received, as to the number and quality of those that were slain or wounded, came not to our knowledge: but the visible loss they had, was of about 30 Men of War sunk and fired; their Renowned Lord Admiral Van-Trumpe was slain in the midst of the engagement: and out of the Dutch Ships that lay sinking in the Sea, the English took out 6 Captains, and about a thousand other Prisoners. This was the saddest conflict that has happened between the two Republics, but a most seasonable victory to the English, who I hope will not fail to make a good improvement thereof. For this piece of Service, the Parliament ordered, that God-Chains should be given to Admiral. Blake and Monk, as a mark of their favour, as also to Vice-admiral Pen, and rear-admiral Lawson; other Chains were ordered to be given to the other Flag-Captains, and Medals of Silver to the Officers of the Fleet. It was afterwards known by Letters out of Holland, that the Dutch lost about 6000 Men in this engagement.  
And now Reader (having brought thee well nigh to the period of my discourse, and hitherto entertained thee with the relation of things merely Civil and Military:) I shall (according to my skill) give thee some account of the state of Religion, for these few years last passed, which was such and in so many shapes, that no one form can be assigned thereto: for instead of an absolute conformity in matters of Relgion, there was a general nonconformity; Heresies being daily broached in every corner of the Land, which continually sprung up like Hydra's heads, one upon the neck of another, by which means the minds of the people became unsettled and shaken in the Principles of Faith and Doctrine; each particular faction tracing a different tract to find the truth, whenas indeed there is but one way and one truth; the numbers & names whereof of if I should undertake to give you, I might reckon ad infinitum: viz. Independents, Anabaptists, and those of several kinds; some for Imposition of hands, anointing with Oil and washing of feet; and some against them. Brownists, Millenaries, Arminians, Socinians, Adamites, Diggers, Seekers, Shakers', Ranters, Enthusiasts, Arians, Pelagians, cum multis aliis: of all which I shall say only thus much, Let them grow together till the harvest, lest in plucking up the tares, you pull up the wheat also.  
This Parliament having sat about as many weeks as the other had done years, though in that time (to give them their due) they had made several laudable Acts, and of great utility and advantage to the people, viz. An Act for taking off the Engagement; for taking off Fines from Original Writs and Declarations: for clearing of Public Debts, and discovery of frauds and concealments due to the Commonwealth: as also an Act for Relief of Creditors and poor Prisoners, which of all others, was of greater concernment to the Nation than any thing they could do: Other Acts of less moment they made also, which I shall forbear to mention. Yet in other things of no small consequence, there appeared such confusion in their counsels, such contrariety in their opinions, such a dissonancy in their actings, and disparity in their aims, that they seemed to be a mere monster with many heads; insomuch that it was not expected their power (as then it stood) would continue unto the time prefixed.  
For on the 10th of Decemb. 1653. the Parliament (having heard the Report of the Committee,  
That they thought it fitting that Commissioners be sent into all the Counties, and enabled to eject scandalous and unable Ministers; and also be empowered to settle able Ministers in all void places.  
That such as are or shall be approved for public Preachers of the Gospel, shall have and enjoy such maintenance as is already settled by Law.  
That upon hearing and considering what hath been offered to the Committee touching propriety in Tithes, of Incumbents, Rectors, Possessors of Donatives or appropriate Tithes; It is the opinion of this Committee, That the said persons have a Legal propriety in Tithes.) The Parliament, I say, having spent several days in debate of this Report, Decemb. 10. put the first of these Reports to the Question, viz. Whether the House doth agree with the first Clause of this Report? which was carried in the Negative.  
Monday Decemb. 12th somewhat early, the House being sat, a Gentleman stood up and moved; That the sitting of this Parliament, as then constituted, would not be for the good of the Commonwealth; and that therefore it was requisite to deliver up unto the Lord General Cromwell the Powers which they received from him: This motion being seconded by several other Members, the House risen, and the Speaker with many Members of the House, departed and went to Whitehall; where they (being the greater number of the Members sitting in Parliament) did by a Writing under their hands, 
The Parliament dissolved, Dec. 12th 1653.  resign unto his Excellency their said Powers; and Mr Speaker, attended with the Members, did present the same to his Excellency accordingly.  
This was no sooner done, but (after serious consultation and debate about the emergent occasions of the Land,) the Lord General Cromwell was (in the presence of all the Judges and Justices of the several Courts at Westminster, the Barons of the Exchequer, the Keepers of the Liberties of England, the Lord Major and Aldermen of the City of London, with most of the chief Officers of the Army) sworn Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland, and of all the Islands and Territories thereunto belonging: Several Articles by which he is to govern the People being then read to him, to the performance whereof, he took a solmn Oath in the presence of them all; the sum whereof was,  
That he should call a Parliament every three years. That the first should be Sept. 3d 1654. That he should not dissolve it until they had sat five months. That whatsoever Bill they should pass, if he should not sign it in 20 days, that then it should pass without him. That he should have a Council of select Persons to assist him, nor under 13, nor above 21. That immediately after his Death, the Council shall choose another Protector before they rise. That no Protector for the future shall be General of the Army. That the Protector shall have power to to make Peace or War. That, with the consent of his Council, he may make Laws which shall be binding till the next Session of Parliament. These with many more particulars you may read at large in the Form of Government.  
Soon after this he was proclaimed Lord Protector in the Palace yard at Westminster, and by the Lord Major and Aldermen in their Scarlet gowns at the Royal-exchange.  
Not long after his Highness the Lord Protector was by the City invited to a Feast at Grocers-Hall, the manner of whose reception was as follows.  
He came from Westminster in a Chariot drawn with 6 Horses in gallant equipage; before him road his Lifeguard with most of his chief Officers, and some of his Council; after them road 2 Pages bareheaded in sumptuous apparel; after them about 12 Lackeys with velvet Caps in grey Liveries with silk and silver fringe; then came his Highness, as aforesaid, in a Chariot, clad in a dark coloured suit and cloak, attended by many of the Nobility in their Coaches with 6 Horses: At Templebarre his Highness was met by the Lord Major and Aldermen, where the Recorder of London saluted him with a pithy an excellent Speech. His Highness then came out of his Chariot, put on a riding coat embroidered with goldlace, and mounted on horseback, two or three of his horses of State being there led by: which done, the Lord Major took the City-Sword, and carried it bareheaded from thence to Grocers-Hall, all the way whereof the several Companies in their Liveries sat on both sides the way, in rails set up on purpose, with Streamers sticking up to distinguish each Company. After his Highness had dined and banquet was ended, he conferred upon the Lord Major the Honour of Knighthood.  
And now Reader have I brought my Story from the end of one Monarchy to the beginning of another: under which (if it please the wise disposer of all things, as well as persons, to grant us Peace, both at home and abroad) both thou and I may live to see happy days: and if it shall please God to spin out the thread of my life to some considerable length, I shall afford the world some other things of the like nature, but if not I am content to acquiesce in the good will of Him that dwelled in the Bush, and so farewell.   
FINIS.