The copy of a Letter sent by the last Post from a knowing Gentleman (ex ordine Observantium) now scouting amongst the Scots, to a Friend of his in LONDON. Briefly intimating that Omne malum ab Aquilone still, and that the present rising of the winds in that Country, is like to revive future storms in our own.  
Kind Sir,  
I thank you for yours of the 5th. of April, though I am troubled to find by it the distempers of England, which indeed (with grief I speak it) are paralleled here. The Parliament hath deserted the clergy, refuses all conference with them, have this day resolved breaches upon ever branch of the Covenant, and immediately are to put themselves into a posture of defence (but it is thought) on purpose to enter England with 40000 men to redeem the King (as they call it) and re-establish the Covenant. But what most troubles, is, they receive the first and great Adversaries of Peace and Religion, the Cavaliers converse and communicate Counsels with them, desire their assistance, and doubtless will raise great bodies of men in the North of England, the whole Northern quarter being nothing else but a mass of Malignancy. Our Commissioners are and have been active to suppress this rising monster, both by reason and reward, but now almost despair the effect; Pray God they may not be prejudiced in their return, for they meet not with respect due to their qualities. Nothing remains to confirm this bad work, but choice of Officers, which to morrow will be done (they say.) Good David Lesley is almost mad to see his Army desert him and his Petition, to follow the idol of a King. Argile and his Confederates stand stiff to God's cause, our Religion and Countries good, but are all overswayed by the Power and Faction of Hamilton. Balmerinoth this day voted a War to redeem the King, to the great wonder of others, he having till now been a faithful labourer in God's Vineyard; The effect of all this will doubtless appear in England, and suddenly. God strengthen you and all good men to oppose such Invasions, which is the Prayer of your most affectionate friend and servant.  
Edinburgh, April 11. 1648.  
Concordat cum Originali.