THE INFORMATION OF Sir Frederick Hamilton, Knight, and Colonel, Given to the Committee of Both KINGDOMS, Concerning Sir William Cole, Knight, and Colonel;  
WITH The Scandalous Answer of the said Sir William Cole, Knight:  
TOGETHER With the Replication of Sir Frederick Hamilton, in Answer to the said Scandalous and Recriminating Pamphlet of Sir William Cole.  
With divers Letters and Depositions, for the clearing of the said Sir Frederick Hamilton, from the several Scandals and Aspersions in the said Answer of Sir William Cole.  
Printed, Anno Dom. 1645.   

To the Impartial READER.  
HE that doth most Service, when he hath least encouragement, shows his principles to be Noble, and that he lest intends himself; and if his more particular employment, chance to expire with his attendance, it may weaken his fortune, but cannot impair his credit: It is unfaithfulness that only makes a man to be used too long, whiles he that hath really done his part, need not to repine, though men of weaker abilities have better fortune. Thus it is task enough for great spirits to be patiented, when they find themselves neglected for doing Service, and in such a case, to keep humble and contented, well knowing, that at a low water there is time to mend the Banks, and whiles the Ship is in the Harbour, it may be dressed and trimed, and made able to endure rough Seas and Tempests: I must confess, it is not the first time I have had to do with men of the same rank and condition, which the ensuing discourse hath brought upon the Stage, not occasioned by any desire of mine, for I am enforced to this Vindication of myself, or must have lain under those base aspersions, which no other than a son of him that ruleth in the Air, could without shame and blushing, have published to the World; but his boldness herein, I doubt not, but will appear to be void, both of Counsel and Religion, his dishonesty sufficiently showing his dishonour, and pusilanimity; for a magnanimous man will be just, but such favourites will be slaves at last, who to advance themselves, will enthral their posterity, betray their Country, abuse their friends, and by an intolerable baseness, and brutish demeanour, traduce those that stand next in the way of their preferments, whose timorousness commonly for want of courage and judgement, makes them so suspicious, that they raise jealousies, and preoccupate evils, never plotted any where, but in their own Imaginations; to which they are led, by prejudicated opinions, and unwarrantable fancies; and such Beasts as these, do usually run under great Trees in a storm, for shelter and protection, where they leave nothing but dung and filth behind them for their standing, when the Tempest is once over: You may perceive, it hath been my zeal (and not too much officiousness, as some would have it) that hath carried me on unto this undertaking, with which, if you shall consider the Injunctions of State laid upon me, how could I have done less, if not to have muzzled my Conscience, and sown up my Lips, to all relation whatsoever: I confess, he that dischargeth his duty, though be doth not deserve thanks, yet he meriteth encouragement, and not discountenance, for his endeavour; but he that at any time, shall over act his part, be too forward for his countries' good, be it never so advantageous to the Public, shall many times be thought more precise, then wise, peradventure be accounted but a mad man for his labour: Envy will not want ways and means to vent itself against the innocent. I have not yet throughly understood it to be an offence, to use the sword with the most keen, and sharpest edge, against a cruel and bloody Rebel: Yet I have sometimes heard of a Milksop, set up in the stead of a Joshua, but than it was to do the enemy a good turn; and that with more security they might make spoil and havoc of their Adversaries: Thus some man may with more safety steal a Horse, than another man may look over the Hedge. And if this man's sufferings be concluded for an Argument of his guilt, or that it be a warrantable proceeding to condemn him upon no better ground and evidence, than his adversaries accusation, I see not who can be safe or free in this world; but Justice lays the Gold to the Touchstone, and finds out the counterfeit Mettle, and esteems of both, according to their value: Let the Cosk then have the Barley Kernel; let the Lapidary take the Jewel that knows the price and value of it. And I beseech you, judge of me as you shall find the truth for to appear in that which follows, wherein I have dealt freely and clearly, and desire to be interpreted as the whole shall hold out unto you, the matter to be resolved, for him to live or die in your opinion, that strives to be yet a more lover of his Country, and to show himself zealous and faithful, in all his undertake, and more particularly in this Cause and Covenant.  
F. H.   

A COPY of the ORDER, by Virtue whereof Sir Frederick Hamilton exhibited Articles against Sir William Cole, and others.  
Die Lunae, 23. Decemb. 1644. At the Committee of both Kingdoms, at Derby House.  
Ordered,  
THat Sr Frederick Hamilton be desired, that if he hath any thing that he can inform this Committee of, concerning any miscarriage of any persons in the Service of the Parliament in Ireland, That he will give it in to the Committee in Writing, on Thursday next, in the Afternoon.  
By Command of the Committee, Gualther Frost Secretary, to the same Committee.   

To the Right Honourable, the Lords, and others, the Committee of both Kingdoms. The Information of Sir Frederick Hamilton Knight, and Colonel, against Sir William Cole, Knight.  
Showing,  
FIrst, That the said Sir William Cole had notice of the intended Plots of the Irish, to break out into Rebellion, above a fortnight before the Rebels took up Arms, as it is generally given out in Ireland; and yet did neither timely inform the State, nor his Neighbours, for to prevent the mischief, and to defend themselves.  
II. That having a Commission from His Majesty to be a Colonel only of five Companies of Foot, he notwithstanding taketh on nine Companies, making them believe, as if he had Commission for a thousand. And when he had made use of their Service, near a year and a half; when Provisions were sent him by the Parliament, whereof they expected a share, he cashiered four of the most deserving Captains, and their Companies, of purpose to gain all the said Provisions to himself, and his Son in law, Dea● Barkley, who was his Agent to the Parliament, for those Provisions.  
III. About the beginning of the Rebellion, there were two English Papists, whose Surnames were Hetherington, who joined themselves with the Rebels, and plundered one Sergeant Abrels house, a Tenant unto Sir Frederick, and afterwards burned the House, which was certified to Sir William Cole by Sir Frederick, with the Depositions of certain witnesses, proving the same fact: And it was desired, that Sir William Cole would make them sure for Justice, they being then daily employed by him, which he refused to do, aleadging that they had done good service to him, and afterward suffered them to escape.  
iv That whereas Sir Frederick Hamilton had taken one Robert Park, one that complied with the Rebels, and had him in custody a year and more, and had likewise gained the Command of the Castle, which was of great advantage and service to the Parliament: And by means whereof, the said Sir Frederick did daily much spoil, and annoy the Rebels. The said Sir William Cole knowing the consequence thereof, and how well affected the said Park stood unto the Rebels, on a time after that horrid Cessation concluded with the Rebels; and when he knew that Sir Frederick himself, his Wife, and Children were gone for London-Derry, some sixty miles from Manor Hamilton: The said Sir William Cole, upon the Marquis of Ormonds' commands, sends his Ensign with 40. Musketeers unto Sir frederick's said Garrison, and by permission of the said Sir frederick's Lieutenant, who commanded in his absence, and corresponded with him, as it should seem, be took away the said Park. And whereas he was by the said Order to have conveyed him unto London-Derry, and so to Dublin, be first feasted him as his Castle, and then returned him back amongst the Rebels, who received him with all gladness, and after they had rejoiced a while together, they go along with him to Dublin, where afterwards be procures an Order of the State for restitution of his Castle, with whatsoever Arms and Goods were in it; which he accordingly obtained in Sir frederick's absence: Which he, and the Rebels, now make good against the Parliament, to the great prejudice of the Parliaments Service, and the danger and hazard of all those parts of Conaught. And this done, albeit, the said Sir William Cole well knew, that Sir Frederick had refused to deliver the said Prisoner, upon several Orders, and Commands, sent unto him by the said Marquis for that purpose, as well knowing the said Park to be an utter Enemy to the Parliament here, and their proceed. And one for whom the Lord Viscount Taaffe (that Arch-rebel) had by his Letters solicited the said Sir Frederick for his delivery.  
V That the said Sir William Cole did in the month of February, next after the said Cessation, apply himself unto the Marquis of Ormond, who then, and long before, was declared an Enemy to the Parliament. And complained against the said Sir Frederick and his Soldiers to the said Marquis, for taking of a prey from the Rebels; which Rebels the said Sir William Cole had then protected, and gained an Order from the said Marquis for restitution thereof, which notwithstanding was disobeyed.  
VI That before the said Cessation, the said Sir William Cole corresponded with the Rebels, and took 100 of them at the least into his Protection, and form them into a Company, consisting of a Captain and Officers; and employed them for some time, with the rest of his Regiment, who did him service in getting of Preys, but did great does service unto the State, in giving Intelligence against all the British of their proceed; and more particularly, did much grieve and offend Sir frederick's Garrison at Manor hammilton, who at the last, took their opportunity, and turned Rebels again.  
The said Sir Frederick could inform many other particular Omissions and This services, which the said Sir William Cole hath committed in this time of his employment, since the Rebellion began in Ireland, which because they do concern himself in a more near relation, he shall therefore forbear to mention. And the said Sir Frederick is ready to justify himself in whatsoever that any man can object against him; And humbly prayeth, that this honourable Committee will not think the worse of him, for discharging his duty to God, and the State, by the informing of these Miscarriages, which in Conscience, he holds himself bound to relate in pursuance of his solemn League and Covenant.  
Frederick Hamilton.   

To the Right Honourable the Lords, and others, The Committees of both Kingdoms. The humble Answer of Sir William Cole Knight, and Colonel, to the Information of Sir Frederick Hamilton Knight, Exhibited against him to your Lordships, the 26. of December, 1644.  
I. FOr answer to the first Article, he saith; That he had no certain notice of the intended Plots of the Irish, to break out into Rebellion, as is suggested by the Informer; but saith, That upon the eleventh of October, 1641. Bryan mac Coconaght Magwire Esquire, and one Flartagh mac Hugh, informed him of some jealousies of suspicions, that they then apprehended of some evil Intentions and practices of the Lord Magwire, Sir Phelem roe O Neil, Neil mac Kennay, Hugh oge mac Mahon, and others of the Irish Gentry of Ulster, of which he gave advertisement by his Letter, to the then Lords Justices and Council of Ireland, with all possible speed; also intimating his desires, That their Lordships would be so pleased, to take that matter into their serious consideration, as that they would strictly examine the said Lord Magwire, and others of his Complices concerning the same, who he understood were shortly after to be at Dublin; which Letter, or a Copy thereof, this Respondent understands, was transmitted by their Lordships to the Parliament of England, and remains with the Clerk of the Honourable House of Commons, and was one of the chiefest evidences and motives (upon the Discovery made by Owin O Connallie) to induce the State to be upon their Guard, and also of the apprehension of the Lord Magwire, Hugh oge mac Mahon, Coconaght Magwire, Redmond Magwire, Tirlagh oge mac Hugh, and others of their consorts in Dublin, the 23. of October, 1641. or thereabouts. And for proof of this advertisement, he can produce their Lordship's letter in answer of his, which he received before the Rebellion broke out. And further saith, That upon the 21. of October, 1641. the said Plot being more fully discovered unto him, by the said Flartagh mac Hugh, by direction from the said Bryan Magwire, and by one Fargus O Howen, how the Rebellion was to break out universally by the Irish on the 23. of that Month. He not only posted away a Messenger with a second letter, 
Notice was given of this Rebellion, from the Respondent to Sir Frederick Hamilton, at London-Derry, the 22. of October, 1641. by rancis Barnaby.  to signify the same unto the said Lords Justices and Council (which was intercepted by the way at Loghramar,) but also the same day hastened eighteen Messengers with so many Letters, to notify the same to his Neighbours at Monea, Castle-Balfour, Newtown, Newpurtton, Lowtherstown, Archdale, Bowssland, Clogher, Glasslogh, and elsewhere, as far as in so short and distracted a time he could possibly do, being fully busied to draw his Neighbours and Tenants together, and to Arm and put them into a posture of War, for the defence of the Castle and Town of Iniskillin, and the parts thereabouts; and amongst others, did then direct particular advertisement thereof, to be given unto Mannor-hammilton, (where the Rebellion broke not out in a Month after) and of which, the Informer could not afterwards be ignorant, though he himself was then absent; and certainly, of all men, hath least reason to lay this as a crime to the Respondents charge, had he not wanted other matter.  
II. To the second Article he answereth, That the Commission therein mentioned (as he hath heard) was the first ground of the Informers envy, and discontent, not only against this Respondent, but also against all the other British Colonels then in Ulster, that received Commissions from His Majesty at that time, for the raising of their Regiments, and prosecuting of the Rebels, taking it in great disdain, that there was not the like Commission then sent unto him; whereas for aught this Respondent could ever hear, none of the said Colonels knew any certainty of the said Commissions, until they were brought unto them; neither did this Respondent receive his said Commission, until almost a year after the Rebellion began (at which time he gave notice thereof unto all his Captains) for that (during the greatest part of that year) he was so enclosed on all sides with multitudes of the enemies (being above forty miles distant from any that were able to give him relief) that he could not receive any intelligence, how the state of the Protestants of that Kingdom stood, in any part thereof, though he had often used his best endeavours to gain the same to his exceeding great charges, and the hanging of twelve or fourteen of his Messengers, by the Rebels. And the said Informer finding this Respondent next unto him, and conceiving him easiest to be dealt withal, hath ever since used his uttermost endeavours by invective Calumnies, to asperse and undervalue both him and his actions, which he hath ever envied, so that by extolling his own unknown services, he laboureth as much as in him lieth, so eclipse those well know services performed by this Respondent, and all other the Commanders and Officers in Ulster and Conaught: And this Respondent further saith, That by virtue of a Commission from the Lords Justices and Council of Ireland, to him directed, at the beginning of the said Rebellion, for raising, Arming, and Banding, all the British within the County of F●rmanaugh, he (with the help of his friends) raised, Armed, and Banded, the nine Companies in the said second Article specified, together with a Troop of Horse; by virtue whereof also, he might have raised, Armed, and Banded, as many of the British as he could have drawn together, for their own mutual defence, and prosecution of the Rebels, by whose assistance (and Gods great blessings) sundry good services have been performed, whereof this Respondent did often give intimation, both to the Honourable Parliament, and to the Lords Justices and Council of Ireland, Humbly desiring, that in reward of their good services they might be listed into the Parliaments pay, and Regimented under his Command. But inasmuch as he could not obtain that favour, by reason of the troubles than hear, though earnestly solicited by his friends, and that but 500 of his Foot, and his Troop, was inlisted and taken into the Parliaments pay, from the first of July, 1642. as appears by Order of the 21. of that Month, and Provisions of , and Victuals, being only sent for them, upon the solicitation of his Agent, Master Robert Barklay; this Respondent was constrained to deliver out the said  unto the Officers and Soldiers, of the said five Companies, (not being able to divide the said 500 Suits amongst 900. men) viz. Unto his own Company, his Lieutenant-colonels, his Serjeant-Majors, to the Company of Captain John Cole, and to the Company of Captain Hugh Rosse, of whom, three are Scottish Officers, and whom without prejudice to the others merit, he conceived very deserving of the Employment. Offering at the very same time, to the other four Captains, and their Companies, an equal dividend of all other Provisions sent him, then by the Parliament, and of what spoils they could get from the Rebels, if they would continue with him in the Service, promising also, to use his best endeavours to have them taken into pay, and added to his Regiment. But the  being thus divided (which could not be otherwise) the said four Companies were so discontented, that of their own accords they disbanded themselves, and went to seek their fortunes elsewhere, and yet the greatest part of their best and ablest men, were persuaded to continue in the Garrison; so that this Respondent denieth, that he did cashier four of the said Captains and their Companies, of purpose to gain all the said Provisions to himself, and his son in law, Master Barklay, as is suggested by the Informer, but was so far from doing so dishonest an act, that during the stay of the said four Captains, and their Companies in the Garrison, they received an equal and proportionable share of the Victuals sent by the Parliament unto his five Companies only; and moreover, he then, and about that time did procure upon the credit and obligations of himself, and his friends, worth 1300 l. more in Corn, and other Provisions, for his said five Companies and Troop, besides those Provisions before mentioned to be sent them from the Parliament, without which care and charge, it was impossible for him to keep his Soldiers together, and to do service for the public, in a remote Garrison, environed then with Rebels on all sides.  
III. To the third Article, this Respondent saith, That one James Dunbar Esquire, and son and heir of Sir John Dunbar Knight (whose Lands, with a good Ironwork thereon, lies next adjoining, to part of the Lands of the Informer, whose desire to intrude upon and gain their Rights to himself (as they often affirmed to this Respondent) begot much contention amongst them, (as it did between him and all others, also who were his Landed Neighbours) which bred such malice in the heart of the Informer against the said James, that he not only exceedingly thirsted after his life, but after the Lives also of his two servants the Hetheringtons, in the said Article mentioned, (not Papists as therein is surmised) but then, and now Protestants, who as well to shun the malice of the Informer, as the fury of the Rebels, came with his said Father unto this Respondent in December, 1641. Who entrusted the said James with the custody of the Castle of Lissgole near Iniskillin, with 74. persons with him, where he was assaulted the 18. of December, 1641. or thereabouts, by a powerful party of the enemy under the conduct of Rorie Magwire, brother of the Lord Magwire, who then took and burned the said Castle, and massacred all that were in it, except the said James Dunbar, whom the Rebels kept in prison, until May or June, 1642. At which time he made an escape, and came again (accompanied with the said two Hetheringtons) unto this Respondent, where the said Hetheringtons went to Church, and did many good and acceptable services, behaving themselves honestly and valiantly in all that time, and as he is informed, or both together with their Master at this time, in the service of this Honourable Parliament, under General Major Monroe (whose Kinsman the said James Dunbar is.) And where he and his said men, are ready to answer aught the Informer can lay to their charge; but this Respondent saith, That he never knew, or heard, that the said Hetheringtons joined themselves with the Rebels, or plundered the said Sergeant Abrels house, or afterward burned it; neither was their any proof thereof made by the said Abrel, or any witnesses upon Oath, or otherwise produced, before the Respondent; neither did he deem it requisite upon the bare Letters of the Informer, (knowing his malice towards them for their Master's sake) to commit them to Prison, where they might have starved for want of sustenance; neither did he suffer them, as Felons, or Traitors, to escape, for that they in the Service, did destroy divers Rebels, and Traitors, whilst they remained at Iniskilling, under this Respondents command.  
iv To the fourth Article of the said Information, this Respondent saith, That upon the first of July 1642. or thereabouts, the said Informer having a design upon the Town of Sligoe, about ten miles from his house, marched to the Castle of Robert Park Esquire, in the said Article mentioned, an English Protestant, and a Justice of Peace; which before the Rebellion, was possessed of an estate of about 1000 l. a year, and one that was of very good repute and esteem amongst his Neighbours, and who (as this Respondent hath been often informed by credible persons) had (to the best of his power) opposed the Rebels in the beginning of that Rebellion, without complying, or any way corresponding with them. And under colour of going forward with that design, procured the said Master Park with 30, or 40. of his Soldiers to accompany him to Sligoe; and when they came near the said Town, both Master Parcks' Soldiers, and those of the Informers entered the Suburbs thereof; and having burned some few houses in it, and received some British Protestants that escaped unto them from the Rebels, they brought them unto the Informer, where he stood aloof with the said Master Park; two of the said rescued Protestants, namely, John Wetherspin the father, and James Witherspin his son, both Scotchmen, were questioned by the Informer, wherefore they were amongst the Rebels. The father answered, that by reason of his age (being about 70 years old, or upwards) and that he was sick and Bedridden three months before, he could not get away, but lived upon the Alms of the people; whereupon one of the Informers servants told him, that this old man was formerly Tenant to one John Waldrome Esquire, (a Gentleman that had an estate near the Informers Lands in that Country) and had borne witness upon Oath on his Landlords part, in matter of title of Land, against the Informer, by means whereof, the cause was decreed for Master Waldrome, 
Note, that this John Whetherspin, conceived to have been the Father, was not the man the said Sir Frederick shot, as aforesaid, yet was hanged by him, but it was another old sick Bedridden Scotchman, that was so shot, and killed by him, in manner aforesaid.  against the Informer, or matter to that purpose. Upon which (without using any more words) he shot, and killed the poor decrepit old man, which was the first, and last man, the Informer killed with his own hands since the Rebellion began in Ireland, as some of his own servants and Soldiers affirmed. Whereupon, being informed by James Wetherspin, the son, that the Forces of the County of Sligoe, were upon their march, to join with the O Roirkes, for to trouble Mannor-hammilton, he together with Master Parcks, and both their Companies, hastened back to Master Parcks' house, where at the importunity of the Informer (as this Respondent hath been credibly informed) he got the said Master Park and his Company (for the better guard of him, and his men) to accompany him to Mannor-hammilton. And although in the way they were hard beset by the Rebels, insomuch, as the Informer in a Bog, was unhorseed, and his Horse, with Furniture, and Pistols, taken by the Rebels; by whom, he had been then slain, or taken, if by the care and valour of the said Master Park, and some of his Soldiers, he had not been horsed again, and brought off. 
Note, that there were Suits depending both in Ireland, and in England, between Sir Frederick Hamilton, and the said James Wetherspin, some years before the Rebellion. And that the said Wetherspin, being served in Ireland with a Command, Dated the 14. of January, 1640. under the hand of the Speaker of the House of Commons of England, at the instance of the said Sir Frederick, he appeared here in London, 7. April. 1641. where having attended the House to answer Sir frederick's complaint, until the 20 of September, 1641. And (not being able longer to stay) he returned into Ireland, where the said Sir Frederick, became his Judge and Executioner, as in this Answer is declared.  Yet when they had escaped that danger, and were come to the Informers house (as this Respondent hath credibly heard) he took the said James Wetherspin (for having formerly witnessed with his Father against him, as aforesaid) and twisted a Cord with a wrinch about his head so hard, that his blood streamed forth of his Ears, Eyes, Nose, and Mouth; in which tortures, he continued him during his pleasure, and then easing him of that, did cast him into a Dungeon, where he continued him languishing for hunger, from Thursday until the Wednesday following: And did cruelly punish a poor Scotshwoman, which in pity did cast him an handful of Oatmeal under the door, which the miserable man, did lick with his Tongue from the dirt, his hands and feet, being fast tied together with Cords or Withes; and upon the Wednesday following, caused him to be hanged. Who at the beginning of the Rebellion, with a Horse, Sword, and Fowling-Peace, came to him, offering his service against the Rebels, from whom, not withstanding he took the said Horse and Arms, commanding him to be gone out of his Garrison, and that if he did not, he would hang him, or if ever he got him again, he would be his death; which he faithfully performed, as aforesaid.  
And also upon the Informers entrance into his Castle, he made exceeding shows of welcome to the said Master Park, whilst in the interim, he caused all his Soldiers to be disarmed, and they put in restraint in several lower Rooms in his house; and then, when he perceived no danger of opposition, he arrested the said Master Park, charging him with Treason, and committed him close Prisoner, where he detained him in durance, the space of a year and upwards, without suffering any man, except Sergeant Major James Galbraith, to speak unto him, which was but once, and that upon much importunity; whose extreme misery, was lamentably bewailed by all the men that were in that Garrison. And then he not only seized upon, and kept his Castle of Newtown, putting a Guard of his own into it; but also plundered, and converted to his own use, all his Money, Plate, Arms, Householdstuff, Beding, Furniture, and all other his Goods whatsoever, which he had then as well without, as within doors there, not suffering his Soldiers to come out of restraint, or use their own Arms, until he had unlawfully compelled them, to take an Oath to serve as Soldiers under his only Command. By reason whereof, the said Master Park was utterly disabled to perform far greater, and much more advantageous Services, in every degree, in that place, for this Honourable Parliament against the Rebels, than ever the Informer did, or could do there, as this Respondent hath been credibly informed, as well by the Testimony of sundry other honest men, as by the said Master Park himself.  
Whereupon Sir Edward Pavia Knight, whose daughter was the Wife of the said Master Park, together with others his friends (being advertised of his extreme hard usage) Petitioned the Lords Justices and Council of Ireland, for his removal to Dublin, to answer such matters, as the Informer had to lay to his charge, and entered into Recognizance of 10000 l. for his appearance, upon which their Lordships by Order dated in May 1643. or thereabouts, required the Informer, to set the said Park at liberty, to be sent either to Captain Folliot to Ballyshannan, or unto this Respondent to Iniskillin, together with the matters that he had to object against him. That so he might be conveyed by them, or one of them to London-Derry, to be sent from thence to Dublin. But the Informer (notwithstanding the said Order, was showed unto him) denied obedience thereunto, and detained the said Park still in durance, until his said friends procured several Orders, commanding his enlargement, yet nothing would prevail to that effect with him, until that about the beginning of Septtmber, 1643. Captain King coming with a Troop of Horse from Conaught, into Ulster, about some business he had with Sir William Stuart, and Sir Robert Stuart; he came about the thirteenth of that month to Iniskillin, unto this Respondent, who sent his Ensign with fifty Musketeers, to guard the said Troop to the Abbey of Boyl in Conaught, which is about forty miles from Iniskillin, who were so far from knowing, or allowing of the said Cessation, mentioned in the said fourth Article, that they fought with, and killed some Rebels in the pass of Ballinafadd, and took a prey from thence to the Boyl; whence upon return of the said Ensign, he came to Mannor-Hammilton in his way, where he delivered a Letter from this Respondent, to Lieutenant Lesley, the Informers Lieutenant, it being directed to the Informer, or in his absence, to the Officer in chief at Mannor-Hammilton, with an Order of the Copy of an Order, which the Respondent received from the said Captain Foliot, in it directed also as aforesaid, from the Lords Justices and Council of Ireland, for the enlargement of the said Park, to be sent to Iniskillin or Ballyshannon, which this Respondent left to his choice to do, or not to do, as best pleased the Informer, or his said Officer; who sent the said Park along with the said Ensign, and because he was sensible of the great misery which he had wrongfully sustained by his Captain's severity, he delivered to the said Master Park, two of his own Horses, with some other little help, toward his charges, as the said Park, told this Respondent when he came to Iniskillin; before which time, this Respondent was never acquainted with him, neither did this Respondent know, or ever heard, that he was affected to the Rebels, neither did he know any manner of certainty of the concluding of the Cessation with the said Rebels, until he received advertisement, together with a Proclamation to that effect, from the Lords Justices and Council of Ireland, the 23. of October, 1643. or thereabouts, nor did he, or could he obey the said Cessation, before, or since that day; neither did he take any notice, whether the Informer, or his Wife and Children, were gone to London-Derry; neither was the marquis of Ormond at that time, Lord Justice, Lord Deputy, or Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, nor did this Respondent receive any such commands from his Lordship, to send to the Informer, as in the said fourth Article is surmised; neither did this Respondent look for, or expect any indirect corresponding from the Informers Lieutenant.  
And this Respondent saith, That as a Prisoner, and poor distressed Englishman, his Countryman (being under bail and mainprize as aforesaid) he gave some entertainment unto the said Park, for some few weeks in his house, far short of feasting, as the Informer terms it, and not finding safety to convey him by the nearest way to Dublin, he sent a guard together with one Henry Langford, and other English and Scotchmen with him, to Mannor-Hammilton again, where he heard he was lodged for a night, and where the Informer, or his Officer, might have detained him if they pleased: But from thence he was conveyed by the said Langford and others, to the Abbey of Boyl, whence after, he recovered of a Fever (whereof he had almost died) he repaired to Dublin, and according to the condition of his said friends Recognizance, appeared before the Lords Justices and Council, at the Council Board there, where how he was proceeded withal, this Respondent knoweth not, neither did this Respondent return him back amongst the Rebels, neither doth he know, whether any of them did company him to Dublin, neither doth this Respondent believe, that the state there would grant him an Order for Restitution of his Castle, with whatsoever Arms, or Goods, were in it, unless it appeared to them, that he was wrongfully expulsed by the Informer. And this Respondent saith, That he heard, that by virtue of such Order of the State, the said Castle was restored unto him, and that he keeps it, as the rest of the British Forces in Conaught doth their Holds, for the Parliament forces. For upon the 25. of March last passed (as this Respondent hath been informed,) the said Park, his Soldiers of Newtown, with the Informers Soldiers, did spoil and pray the Rebels at Dromahear, within six miles of Castle-hammilton, and two miles of Master Parcks' Castle of Newtown, so as the Informers allegation, that he and the Rebels, makes good that Castle against the Parliament, to the prejudice of the Parliaments service, and the danger and hazard of all those parts of Conaught, is merely surmised, invented, and devised, of purpose (as this Respondent conceives) to make him odious on the one side, that the Informer may thereby, the better work his malice against him, and on the other side, to bring the said Master Park into the displeasure of the Parliament, whereby he may make way to gain his Estate.  
And this Respondent further saith, That he never knew, or heard of any Orders or Commands, sent unto the Informer, by the said marquis of Ormond, to the said Master Park; neither did he know, or doth believe, the said Park to be an utter enemy to the Parliament, or their proceed, nor doth he know, neither doth it concern him, whether the Lord Viscount Taaffe, did by his Letters solicit the Informer, for the delivery of the said Park. But this Respondent doth believe in his conscience, That if the said Park had but 1000 l. in the world, he would give 500 l. of it to be here now, to be a most humble Suitor to this Honourable Parliament for remedy, against the said Informer, for these and many other intolerable wrongs, and high oppressions done him, by the said Informer. And this Respondent humbly craveth leave, to declare further, the behaviour of the said Informer, towards Thomas Abbercromy Esquire, a Protestant, and principal undertaker in that Plantation, and sometimes High-Sheriff of that County, whose Estate there bordered upon the Informers, within a mile of his Castle, whom he also Imprisoned, and kept in miserable durance, for a long time, out of the malice, which in particular, he bore to himself, and also unto his Father in law, Sir John Dunbar Knight, and James Dunbar Esquire, his Brother in law, not suffering any to wash his linen, but was necessitated, with his own hands, to wash his shirts in his own Urine: And at length being set at liberty, the poor Gentleman with his Wife, and Children, came (in great want of all necessaries) to Iniskillin, to this Respondent, who used means to relieve them until he conveyed them towards his native Country of Scotland.  
And further this Respondent saith, That (as he hath been credily Informed by divers honest Protestants, who well knew the Informers evil carriages to those that were under his command, and more especially to the Protestants that fled from Sir John Dunbars Iron-works, to his house, for safeguard of their lives) the Informer compelled many of them (without sending guards or convoys with them) to departed from his Garrison, insomuch, as by their endeavouring to travel twenty miles over Mountainous ways, towards Iniskillin, many of them were murdered in their journey, by the Rebels. And in particular, twelve or fourteen persons at one time, and divers of them famished through hunger and cold, which will be proved by sundry men and women of the same Companies, whose Fortune it was (through God's Providence) to escape those dangers. And are now resident partly under this Respondent at Imskillin, and others of them dispersedly dwelling amongst other Regiments in Ulster, and elsewhere.  
V To the fifth Article this Respondent saith, That he did not know in the Month of February, after the said Cessation, whether or no, the said Lord marquis of Ormond, was Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, nor whether he was declared an Enemy to the Parliament, nor did he hear any other, then that he was gracious and acceptable unto the Parliament, until this Respondent was now upon his journey to London, and saith, that after concluding of the said Cessation (which how acceptable it was to the Parliament, this Respondent being so remote, understood not,) he by virtue of a Commission, dated in November or December, 1641. from Sir William Parsons, and Sir John Borlace, than Lords Justices of Ireland, and the Council there, did upon the 29. of January, 1643. or thereabouts, receive Tirlagh oge mac Gawran, and some followers of his, being Inhabitants of the Barony of Tallaghagh in the County of Cavan, together with their Goods into protection, appointing them some quarters to dwell and graze upon, near Iniskillin, until directions to the contrary, should come from the Parliament, and that upon agreement, that they should pay 70 l. in Money or Victuals, by a time limited, towards the better subsistence of the Soldiers of this Respondents Regiment, for the preserving of that Garrison, whose provisions being then near spent, had no hopes to be supplied by the State there, and as little expectation to be furnished in due time from hence, and the said protected men having delivered in one of their Kinsmen unto this Respondent, to remain in prison at Iniskillin in pledge as well for their Loyalties, during their continuance upon the said Protection, as the paying of the said Contribution, and performing other duties, conformable to their agreement, gathered their Goods from remote parts, and upon the second of February, 1643. or thereabouts, were coming to the quarters assigned to them by this Respondent; but by the way, the Soldiers of the Informer, incountering them, declared, that they were in want of Victuals in their Garrison; and although they would forbear to kill them (for so far they agreed to the said Protection) yet they would, and must borrow some Cows from them upon Ticket, to be paid by the State, out of their entertainment, and thereupon took from them three or four hundred Cows, whereof their Officers at Mannor-Hammilton (upon the mediation of the Respondents Lieutenant Colonel) caused the greatest part to be restored again unto the said Owners, but refused to deliver the rest. Of which (upon the next occasion, that this Respondent had to write to Dublin) at the request of the said Owners, he gave intimation unto the then Lords Justices and Council; and thereupon, the said Lord marquis being newly then, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, did by his Warrant command, not only the restoring of the residue of the said Goods unto the Owners; but withal, required better correspendency to be observed for the future, between the Officers and Soldiers of the Informer, and those of Iniskillin, and not to clash or jar between themselves; but whether the said latter Order was obeyed, as touching the restitution of the said Goods; this Respondent knoweth not, and faith, That the Officers and Soldiers of the said Garrisons, not in obedience to that Order, but of their own mutual accords (have ever since the Informer left those parts) lived in better amity, than ever they did, or could do, whilst he continued there amongst them: Nevertheless, this Respondent faith, That by reason of that impediment, offered by the Informers Soldiers, as aforesaid, this Respondent and his Soldiers lost the benefit of that bargain, to the great prejudice of that Garrison.  
And faith further, That the Informer or his Officers, received into his Protection (by what authority this Respondent could never yet understand) one Owin, or James mac Murrey, Margaret Nigh Cabe, and sundry other Rebels of the County of Letrym, and kept them and their Goods upon his own Lands of Glanfern, near his Garrison in that County, which will be proved by Certificate, and sundry Letters of the date of January, 1643. under the hand of his own Lieutenant and others.  
VI To the sixth Article, this Respondent denieth, that ever he corresponded with the Rebels, as by the said Informer is therein suggested; but faith, That by virtue of the aforesaid Commission from the Lords Justices and Council of Ireland, he did receive into protection, one Bryan mac Coconaght mac Gwire Esquire, with forty or fifty of his Friends, Servants, and Tenants, who had some Goods of their own to live upon, taking Pledges from some of them, for Assurance of their Loyalties; which Protection, this Respondent humbly conceiveth was lawful for him to grant unto the said Bryan Magwire, for the Reasons following, viz.  
First, For that upon the 21. of October, 1641. he discovered unto this Respondent by Flartagh mac Hugh aforenamed, the purpose of the Irish, to rise into Rebellion upon Friday and Saturday, the 22. and 23. of October aforesaid, advising him, and all the English and Scottish Protestants in the Town of Iniskillin, and County of Farmanagh, to be carefully upon their defence; which this Respondent acknowledgeth, was (by God's mercy and providence) the principal Motive that prevented the Murdering of this Respondent, and of all those Protestants that escaped that bloody Massacre thereabouts.  
Secondly, For that the said Bryan did refuse to join in any Action with the Rebels, denying to enter into their Oaths of Confederacy and Association against the Protestants, for which, he was in great danger to be cut off by them.  
Thirdly, For that he preserved under his own Protection, divers of the British Nation, Protestants; which together with several of their Goods he brought safe to Iniskillin, when he was so received into Protection, as Ambrose Carleton, Richard Irwing, Gawan Bettie, and many others.  
Fourthly, For that by receiving him, being an eminent man of Ulster, and allied unto many Noble Families, (both in Scotland and Ireland,) it exceedingly abated the fury and courage of the Rebels, and distracted their Consultations in those Parts; and wholly disjoined the Forces of the Rebels in that County, by dividing themselves into factions; and no less disheartened those of the next adjoining Counties, which in that interim, and for a long time after, did abundantly advantage, and further the Public Service.  
Fifthly, For that in further Evidence of his Loyalty to the English Crown and Government, he presented a Letter unto this Respondent, which came unto him from Owin mac Artt O Neille (Uncle of the Lord Magwire, and General of the Rebels in Ulster,) who lately before, arrived in Ireland, with Men, Arms, and Ammunition, out of West-Flanders, which Letter is as followeth, vix.  
To our Loving and Dear Cousien, Bryan mac Coconaght Magwire.  
Loving Cousin,  
KNow that I am arrived at this Harbour, nine or ten days past, whether I sent before me, as much Ammunition as I deemed needful, to answer the necessity of this Country: And that I have here now, Men and Provisions, such as (by the leave of God) will give great comfort and secure unto this whole Kingdom. But beloved Cousin, I am given to understand, that (not withstanding your sufferance and distress) you are abundantly inclined to side with the English Nation, which indecd doth exceedingly grieve me; Wherefore, I will have you from henceforth (as you tender your own good) to banish those thoughts out of your mind, and not to pursue those Resolutions, which in the end, may be the occasion of your own Destruction, as I think it will be to all those, whose minds will appear contrary to ours: Let these suffice with the adage of many salutes unto you, from Castle-Do, the 18. of July, 1642.  
Your affectionate Kinsman, Signed, Owen O Neille.  
And besides, the said Bryan gained Intelligence of great concernment, from the enemy, and discovered it at all times, and upon all occasions unto this Respondent, who made great use thereof, for the furtherance, and advancement of the Public Service; whereof, this Respondent made report by his Letters unto Sir William Parsons, and Sir John Burlace, than Lords Justices of Ireland, and the Council there, to whom he did send the said Bryan Magwire to Dublin, who did not only approve of this Respondents act in receiving of him and his men, into Protection, as aforesaid, but also (as this Respondent was informed) did further signify unto this Honourable Parliament, the affection and service of the said Bryan, with their desires in his behalf, that he should be rewarded for the same. And afterward their Lordships returned the said Bryan unto this Respondent, allowing him and his men, to be continued upon Protection at Iniskillin: Near unto which Garrison, he remains loyal, even at this time, but in a most miserable condition for want of necessaries. And this Respondent denieth, That ever he did form the said protected men into a Company, consisting of a Captain and Officers, as in the said sixth Article is merely devised and surmised, but did employ them under the leading of some of the British Gentlemen of his Garrison, upon Service many times, with the rest of his Regiment, against the Rebels; wherein they were of abundant use, as well for Spies and Guides, as by killing and destroying the enemy, as effectually as others did; and (for aught known by this Respondent) did no dis-service at any time unto the State, in giving Intelligence against all, or any of the British of their proceed; and divers of the said protected men, being taken prisoners at several times, by the Rebels, were put to death, for taking part with this Respondent. But this Respondent denieth, That all the said protected men did take their opportunity, to turn to the Rebels again, as is surmised; but some few that did (leaving their Pledge which they gave for assurance of their Loyalty, in prison at Iniskillin,) this Respondent caused him to be hanged, when they proved disloyal. And this Respondent humbly conceiveth, That as Rahab and her Parents, Family, and Friends, for her sake, were preserved in Jericho for saving the two Spies of Joshuah, so this Honourable Parliament, will be pleased to think, That this Respondent did no dis-service unto the State, in protecting, and preserving of the said Bryan Magwire, and some of his Friends for his sake; who was the Instrument of the saving of the lives of many thousands of Protestants (even God's people) from being utterly destroyed by the fury of the said bloody Rebels.  
ANd for answer unto that expression wherewith the said Informer seems to conclude his Information, 
Note, that since this Answer was sent into the Commons House of Parliament, Sir William Cole received a Letter of the 8. of January, 1644. Written by one of the Captains of his Regiment from Iniskillin; certifying that about that time, forty Horse, and 120. Foot of that Garrison, fought with and routed 500 Foot, and 3. Troops of Horse of the Rebels, conducted by Colonel Philip O Rely, wherein they not only rescued their own Cattle which were Plundered by the Enemy: But also killed 140. of them in the place, and took 55. Prisoners, whereof are Officers, one Sergeant Major, 3. Captains, two Lieutenants, with divers Gentlemen, and other Officers. Whereby it appears, that neither the said Sir William, or his Soldiers, did any way correspond with the Rebels, since the Cessation, or before.  by saying, he could inform many other particular omissions and disservices, which the said Respondent hath committed in this time of his employment, etc. The Respondent faith, That he conceiveth the Informer means it, by the scandalous calumnies and aspersions digested in fifteen places of that Pamphlet, Printed at London, in Anno Dom. 1643. Wherein his Services are registered, and wherein this Respondent and his Captains, Officers, and Soldiers, are most injuriously taxed, with often reiterations of unworthy and mean carriage towards him, for that they did not wait upon him, upon all his calls, which this Respondent conceiveth, was more than he was bound to do, further than to this Respondent would seem fit, for the good of the Public Service, especially, when as at the same very times (which was long before the Cessation) he was employed about services of far greater and better concernment in the Counties of Fermanagh, Cavan, Monaghan, Tirone, Donegall, Letrim, or Sligoe, which hath formerly been well known, both in Ireland, and else where.  
And this Respondent further showeth, That immediately after the said Cessation, this Respondents Regiment destroyed 296. of the Rebels, and famished many hundreds of them, and also took in Rory mac Gwires Castle, which is now preserved for the Parliaments use: And as well then, as before, did rescue, or otherwise redeem from the said Rebels, 5467 English and Scottish Protestants, and relieved them for many Months, out of the spoils gained from the enemy, until that in his own person, he guarded and conveied great numbers of them towards London-Derry, where further care was taken for their relief, by the good people there: And saith also, That he this Respondent, was one of the first Colonels of the British Regiments in Ulster, which did embrace, and take the Solemn League and Covenant, which he humbly conceives will not be deemed to be Omissions or Disservices, as the Informer terms them; who since his coming hither, hath not only laboured to defame the Respondent, but also hath taxed the rest of the Colonels in Ulster, for their neglects in their Service, who (in this Respondents opinion) have done much better Service, then either of them.  
Yet did this Respondent, several times, show his desires in a most effectual manner, to help and relieve the said Informer; for having received a pitiful Message from him, about the 26. of July, 1642. That he, his Wife, Children, and Soldiers, were like to be destroyed by nine hundred of the Rebels, that then besieged him: This Respondent immediately sent a party of four hundred Horse and Foot, for his relief, with Orders, that after they had relieved the Informer, they should return within forty eight hours: This Respondent being then threatened to be besieged, by the General of the Irish Forces Owin mac Art O Neille with 6000 men; but when the Respondents Lieutenant Colonel came to the Informer with this Party, they found him not at all besieged, not in no such extremity as he pretended, but perceived he sent this pressing Message, only to get some of the Respondents men with him, to take in the Castle of Dromahear, which without Ordnance, they could not have effected, though being come, at his importunity they attempted, in conclusion, to no other purpose, then to destroy their men.  
Whereupon his Officers and Soldiers, returned on the 29. of July from him, having received many affronts and abuses. And on the 20. of May following, this Respondent intending some service in the Province of Conaught, drew forth about 500 Horse and Foot, and Leaguring within two miles of the Informers Garrison, was importuned with much earnestness to come unto him to christian his Son, which the Respondent (conceiving to be an act of charity and Christianity) consented unto, expecting such civility, as might be answerable to so neighbourly an Office. But both himself, and those few Officers he carried with him, received such gross disrespect, that he will not desile your ears with the hearing it.  
Nevertheless, God having blest the Respondent in his journey with success against the enemy, he gave him for the relief of his Garrison two hundred fifty and nine Cows: There going with him in his journey of their own accord, of the men belonging to his Garrison, only 38. Footmen, and 12. Horse.  
He moreover then bestowed upon his good Lady 1000 Sheep, and what he bestowed on those Gentlemen of his Lady's Kindred, and his Officers, who went in a friendly manner with this Respondent, the Informer suffered them not to enjoy, but converted to his own use.  
These civilities, which this Respondent is most unwillingly drawn to mention, he conceived might deserve more thanks, and not to be himself and his Regiment, exclaimed against by the Informer, merely to render him and them odious, in all places where his tongue gets him credit.  
In the time of Peace, his carriage towards high neighbours, was so full of contention, that there was hardly any man of quality or worth near him, in the Province of Conaught, that he had not laboured to injure and oppress, either in their Estates or Reputations, if not in both, so that before the Rebellion began, such his carriages made him extremely distasteful to men of all conditions, that lived within twenty or thirty miles of him, in that Province, which will be evidenced by divers of his Neighbours, of the best quality, now in this City, if they may be called upon for that purpose.  
And particularly this Respondent, representeth to your further notice, something of the Informers demeanour towards some of his distressed Neighbours in the hands of the Rebels, deciphered in these two short ensuing Letters, Printed in the latter end of that Book of his own Services, Page 57 viz.  
Sir Robert Hannay's Letter, and other Protestants being Prisoners at Sligoe, are sent to Dromahear Castle.  
Honourable Sir,  
WE the undernamed persons, having suffered in all our whole Estates, and being upon our banishment, out of this Kingdom, under the safe conduct of Master Edmond Bourk of Ragagh, and Master Walter Bourk of Ardagh, towards the North, but most opposed at Castle-Coner; Eniscromme, Escagh-Bridge, Downeill, Arnaglasse and Tomler, go by several Bands of Armed men, purposely to set for our lives, were not there extreme violence suppressed by the discretion, worth, and care of those two Gentlemen, and we taken Prisoners by the Mac Swine's, brought before O Coner-Sligo, where we now remain, and intended to be sent to the Castle of Dromahear, to be kept until you Sir deliver such Prisoners of the O Roirks and others, as you have in your custody, or to be dealt with, as you do unto them: Sir you are Nobly disposed, so that in honour, we hope, the means of relief being in yourself, you will not suffer us to perish, who will ever remain Sir  
Yours truly obliged to serve you, Signed, Robert Hannay, Andrew Adare, Alexander Mountgomery, William Liston, Thomas Fullerton.  
These be the names and number of the Prisoners, Sir Robert Hannay, his Lady, his two Daughters, two Boys, two men, and a Gentlewoman; Master Andrew Adare, and his Wife, and Sister's Son; Master Alexander Mountgomery, his Wife, and eldest Son; Master William Liston, his Wife, and Daughter; Master Thomas Fullerton, and his Wife; Patrisk Deomand, Master Adares man.  
Sir, after the writing of this Letter, we are brought to Dromahear Castle, and Order left with the Captain to bring us unto the Camp at Mannor-Hammilton, where we must suffer death, if those Prisoners with you be not delivered.  
Sir Frederick Hammiltons' Answer to the Letter .  
SIR, I have received your Letter, whereby I am given to understand of your treacherous surprisal, not with standing of your safe conduct promised, for the which I am very sorry. But such is the treacherous falsehood of those distoyall Traitors, generally throughout this wholc Kingdom, that hath made me view and swear, in the presence of Almighty God, That I will never give or take quarter, with them, or any of them, yea, though my own Sons that descended from my Loins, were in your estate, I had rather they should die gloriously for the cause of Christ, than I should so abase myself, as to deal with such Traitors to God and His Majestic. Thus beseeching God Almighty, to strengthen and encourage you, that you may continue constant, until it shall please God, to give you deliverance, either by life or death. In the mean time, I am persuaded, that they will use you with no worse measure, than their Prisoners, who were apprehended by me in the action of Rebellion are used: So recommending you to God, I rest,  
Your very loving friend, Frederick Hamilton. Castle-Hammilton, January the 19 1641.  
And after he delivered this Letter unto the Messenger, he hanged the chief of the Prisoners (being brother to Colonel O Roirke, who was desired by this exchange) in the sight of the Messenger, before he would permit him to departed, upon whose return to the Rebels, they in revenge thereof, murdered about ten or eleven of the said Protestants, whereof two were godly Ministers; and yet if their mercy and compassion, in the midst of their Barbarity, had not far transcended Sir Frederick Hammiltons, they had likewise put Sir Robert Hannay, and his Lady, and Children, and all the rest to death.  
And that his ill disposition may the more fully appear, he hath with striking, and other ill usage, so behaved himself, toward his Officers, that his Lieutenant, Ensign, Minister, and one of his Sergeants, have all forsaken him; so that he hath now no Officers, but one Sergeant to command his Company, at Mannor-Hammilton, consisting of seventy men, or thereabouts.  
And not withstanding all this, The said Informer is labouring for the Government of London-Derry; and because he conceived he might prevail in that suit, if his miscarriages were not discovered, he moved this Respondent, that all the differences betwixt them, might be composed by the order of friends; which motion, if this Respondent would then have accepted, he conceives this Information had never been heard of.  
And as touching the Government of London-Derry aforesaid, this Respondent humbly desires leave to declare, that once it was conferred upon Sir George Pawlet, a man whose temper in some things, was not much unlike this of the Informers, whose passionate demeanour in his Office, was not only the occasion of the loss of his own life, but of the loss also of the lives of many of this Nation there, and the burning of that Town, with the kindling of a violent (though as it happened) but a short Rebellion in the Country thereabouts, which did put the State then, to much unnecessary expenses in the suppressing of it.  
All which, together with the premises, this Respondent humbly representeth as pertinent instances, and reasons, to induce the honourable Parliament, not to put the Government thereof into the power of the Informer, whose demeanour will never be brooked, by those good people that now inhabit there, upon whom, all the aspersions that are laid by any late reports or Printed Letters (this Respondent believes) were invented and contrived by the Informer, or his Instruments, of purpose to make them detestable to this Honourable Parliament, whom this Respondent is confident, are as loyal, and wel-wishing to the Parliament, as can be expected; and will really witness the same, by their ready and joyful receiving and obeying of any Governor (except Sir Frederick Hamilton) that the Parliament will be pleased to appoint over them. But his conditions are so well known unto them, that they will quit their fortunes and stations there, which they have hither to preserved, with so much expense and hazard, rather than submit unto his Command.  
And this Respondent most humbly desires this honourable Committee, would be pleased to pardon him, if he have trespassed upon your Patience, in answer to the Charge given in by the Informer, being necessitated thereunto, for his more ample Vindication, by laying open the disposition of the Informer, which he hath most unnecessary drawn upon himself, without any provocations given to him, by this Respondent. And humbly prays, such reparations as in your Wisdoms shall be thought fit.  
Exhibited 11. of January. 1644. Signed, William Cole.   

The Replication of Sir Frederick Hamilton, Knight, and Colonel, To the Scandalous Recriminating Answer of Sir William Cole, Given in to the Information of the said Sir Frederick, Exhibited against him, to the Honourable Committee of both Kingdoms, the 26. of December. 1644.  
THe said Sir William Cole, confesseth the first charge, and for his defence pretendeth, That he gave advertisement of the said intended Rebellion, by his Letters to the then Lords Justices and Council, with all possible speed; with advice, That their Lordships would strictly examine the Lord Mac Gwire, and others his Complices, concerning the same.  
But if his notice given to the Lords Justices, had been so timely, as his Information was seasonable, by him confessed to have been, twelve days before the breaking out of the said Rebellion; without all peradventure, the Lords Justices and Council, would not have neglected the opportunity, of preventing so great a mischief; which had not been easily done, if to have understood thereof, so long before, nor can it be credited for tructh, that the Respondent gave them any such timely notice, when it is manifest, That the discovery thereof, unto the Lords Justices and Council, by Captain O Connelly, was with much difficulty to his person, very late in the night, immediately before the same day it was to have been acted at Dublin.  
And the Respondent being a Justice of the Peace and Corum, and a man invested with great power and authority in his Country, and of great credit amongst the people, by the duty of his place, should, as very easily he might, and aught to have apprehended the Conspirators; the said Lord Mac Gwire, and the rest of the chief of them, being his near neighbours; whose persons, if he had secured in so long time before the Tragedy was to have been acted, would have prevented their wicked design, and disheartened the rest of their accomplices through the Kingdom, to have proceeded; nor can the Respondent, pretend any want of force, to have enabled him in this action, the King's High Sheriff of that County living within five miles to him; who being an active able Gentleman, could in a very short time, have raised for his assistance, the power of the whole British, had he been timely advertised, as properly he ought to have been: So that for the Respondent thus to sit still in his own Castle, and to betray all his Neighbours, until the very night before this bloody Rebellion broke out, and then to write Letters, as he allegeth, to warn his Neighbours and Tenants of this evil to come, who should have been all in Arms, and apprehending the Conspirators long before: Whether the Respondent performed the Office of a faithful Magistrate, or the Duty and Courage of a Judicious Commander, or the Care and Providence of a good Neighbour, and Faithful Subject, this Repliant leaveth it to your Judicious Considerations; And is verily persuaded, That if the Respondent had timely delivered, but Arms to so many men, as he allegeth to have sent Letters, and to have gone in the head of them, against those Rebels, he might have done more good service, for the safety of the Public, his Neighbours, and Tenants, than all the Rhetoric he used in his Letters, to warn and admonish them of this danger: But his chief care appeared, the safety of himself at home in his Castle, to man, and secure that place; where much ado there was, (as the Repliant hath been informed) to persuade the Respondent, for all his Regiment, in six month's time, to set his Nose out of that Castle, until the greatest fury of the Rebels was passed; and afterwards, for catching of Cows, and such like plundering employment, he proved very active: And that this Repliant, being from home, as the Respondent relateth, that he was, and in this case, should be advertised by the Respondent, That there was intended such an Insurrection, it is much like his other assertion, That this Repliant herein doth want matter justly to accuse him, as he hath informed: For certain it is, this Repliant never received Letter, or advertisement from him, though he knew the Repliant to command the next Garrison to him; which it pleased God, miraculously to preserve, until this Repliant with no small hazard, returned amongst them; at which time he did not delay venturing a Messenger, with a kind Letter, to the Respondent, whose answer to the Repliants Letter followeth.  
Honourable Sir,  
YOur zeal to His Majesty's service, the common good, and care of us in particular, expressed in your Letter of the 29. of this instant October, hath added comfort and courage to us, your friends, and fellow Soldiers; who do conceive, that our fears are greater (as you allege) than cause requireth; for if the Scots and English had unanimously united their Forces at the first, we had been able, not only to have made head against the enemy, but also err now, to have been Master of the Field: But their policy in giving out, that their Commission was to destroy the English, and to spare the Scots, hath so prevailed with some of the more ignorant sort of that Nation, that they withdraw their assistance from us, which as it could not but dishearten us a little, so the enemy hath made advantage thereof: But the Sheriff of our County Master Adam Cathcart, and the rest of his neighbours, by giving us two visits with a good Troop of Horse, with promise of Assistance, hath removed those jealousies, to which your worthy actions hath added a greater lustre; in so much, that I make no question, that if a man of your eminency and worth, of that nation, would but once show themselves in the Field; it would not only turn the Council of the Achitophel into foolishness, but the Scots and English in those, and all other parts, would resort together in such Troops, That we should be able to bid them Battle; for we are (I thank God) above 200. strong in the Castle, and Town of Iniskillin, which is as yet safe; and our Scotch Neighbours are as many in Foot and Horse: Therefore I think it the best way to find them out, and not to keep asunder thus in our strong Holds; for my own part, I do verily believe, that they are far short of those numbers, and Ammunition, they give out, except they reckon Boys, and Calloghes: But the worst is, we have little intelligence, but what we have from themselves, who questionless will make the best of all things, and the worst for us: As for Dublin, I hope it is not taken, whither I sent a Messenger on Saturday last, with Letters to the State, whereof I have sent you here enclosed. Cavan we hear holds out, being strengthened with a Troop of Horse that lay at Turbbet: Captain Atkinson, upon what promises, I know not, hath yielded up his Castle to Bryan mac Gwire, without any resistance, and is with him; and so have all the strong holds of this County, except this of Iniskillin, Tully, Mo●ea, which we hope with God's help and the assistance of our friends to defend in spite of our enemy: But they have got all the Goods and Ammunition of the whole County into their possession. And though the Plot be General as the Irish give out, yet there is not so much severity used in any part of the Kingdom, as in this County: So giving you many thanks for your good intelligence; which I entreat you upon all occasions continue, with assurance, that you shall receive the like from me: As also the contents of your Letter conveyed to the Lords Justices, with all convenient speed, with the tender of my Service, to yourself, and Honourable Lady. I commit you, and all of us, to the safe protection of the Almighty, I rest  
Your true friend and servant, William Cole. Iniskillin Castle, the 2. of October, 1641.  
Together with this Answer, the Repliant received a Letter, signed by the forementioned Captain Adam Cathcart, then High Sheriff, Captain William Acheson, now Lieutenant Colonel to the Respondent: Who by that Letter, offered themselves with their several Companies, which they then Commanded, to put themselves under the Command of this Repliant, refusing to take on with Sir William Cole at all: But this Repliant otherwise advised them, for the safety of their own Country, that they should join themselves with Sir William Cole, hoping to have found him, a more faithful Neighbour, than he proved. Some few days after this Letter received, Captain Hugh Rosse, having formerly been Chirurgeon, for several years to the Repliants Foot Company, brought with him to the Repliants Garrison, at Mannor-Hammilton, Captain George Greir, who had with them, two able Companies of the Repliants Countrymen, who were come a purpose to tender their service unto him, who had much ado to persuade them to return, or have any meddling at all with Sir William Cole, whose baseness in several kinds they much complained off, yet at last, the Repliant having used them, and their men kindly, with free-quarters in his Castle for two nights, did afterwards give every one of their Soldier's Money, and every Captain, and Officer, a proportion of Salt, whereof they were scarce at that time, and persuaded them to return, promising to acknowledge themselves as Companies engaged to the Repliant, when he should think fit to command them, who afterwards joined themselves in the Respondents Regiment; and without those four Companies, could not have made up a Regiment there, though he proved very unthankful to the Repliant afterwards. And whereas the Respondent mentioned in his Letter, Captain Roger Atkinson, an Ancient Servitor in Queen Elizabeth's days, and a Noble Housekeeper, for many years together, living within a mile to the Respondent; who with his Wife and Family, had in former times received many charitable and Neighbourly helps and reliefs, from the said Atkinson and his virtuous Bedfellow, who was a near Kinswoman, to the now Earl of Leicester: Nevertheless, did the Respondent endeavour to cast aspersions upon this worthy Gentleman, as if had basely parted with his Castle to the Irishes; whereas the fault shall appear in the Respondent, and his Treacherous and unneighbourly usage of him, mentioned in this Letter, sent by Captain Atkinson to the Repliant, in Vindication of the aspersions cast upon him by the Respondent as followeth.  
Honourable Sir,  
ACcording to your desire, you shall be pleased to understand the manner, how I left my house the 22. of October, 1641. Towards night I received a note from Sir William Cole, wherein he made mention, he had notice given him that day, that the Irish was to make some attempt on the morrow, or soon after; and therefore wished me to have some people about me, and to be upon my guard, Captain William Atcheson being then within, to whom I shown my Letter; whereupon he went presently to Sir William, to know the manner, and did promise to come and acquaint me, how all things went that night, which he did; and withal, I sent my man to call all my trustiest Tenants, to be with me presently; some did come and went home again to bring some of their Goods, but did not return back again, so that night I caused charge all the Pieces I had, that was fixed; the next morning being Saturday, there came some Scotchmen by me, who dwelled towards Ballibalfoor, who told me, that all the Country that way was in fire, and that Rory mac Gwire was coming that way with a great many men all in Arms; and that Lough, which my Lady Goure lived in, was full of Boats and Cotts, with men and Arms, and that Rory mac Gwire, did not meddle with any Scotchmen at all, or their Goods; whereupon, all those that were with me, went away home, and left me, and I having no more Powder then to charge my Pieces once again, took occasion to send my man Humphrey, to Sir William Cole, with money, desiring him to send me twenty pound of Powder, and if not so much, to send me twelve, in regard I had sent to Dublin a twelvemonth before, to Captain Pinner, to get me some Powder out of the Storehouse, which he did, but not so much as I wrote for; who sent me word, That the Clerk of the Storehouse promised to write to Sir William Cole, to furnish me with what I stood in need off, because he had enough in his keeping; his answer returned me, was, That a pound of Powder was worth a pound of Silver: So Saturday, and Sunday, none came at me; but I perceived burning every where. On Monday morning, Sir William went to persuade me for to leave my House, and if I would come to Iniskillin, he would send me a guard of forty men Armed, to conduct me: Whereupon, I acquainted these few men that were with me, who all wished me to go; and if I would not, that they all would go, for they all knew that I had no Ammunition: I was persuaded to write to Sir William, if he would send me the guard he promised, I would come; and presently got Horses, and did lay all my Arms, and sundry other things, waiting still for my guard, till towards night, but none came; so when it was dark night, one brought me word, that Bryan mac Gwire was at my Mill, with a great many men: Whereupon, I sent Zachery Rampion, and Humphrey Holland, to know his intention; his answer, he was not acquainted with the intention of the Natives, But upon a word my Wife sent him, he had gotten these men together, and had come for my good, and sent them back, desiring me to meet him, and another with him, at my utter Gate: I took my Wife with me, because I durst not trust any other interpreter betwixt us, Commanding the rest of the people to keep within; but before I come to the utter Gate, I looked back, and saw men and women follow after me; whereupon, I put them back again: In the mean time, my Wife was with Master Bryan at the Gate. When I met him, and asked him the reason of his coming, his answer was, He had received word from my Wife, to come for my good, and to preserve me, and my House, and Goods; showing me, that three Counties, Tiron, Mannaghan, and Cavan, were gathering together to come in these parts, and seeing that I had no men to defend my house, if it pleased me, he would put some men of his in it, till they were gone, with a solemn Protestation, That he would redeliver it, and all my Goods, safe unto me back again; and in the mean time, preserve me from the Tyranny of the enemy, that meant no good to me; and as soon as any Army came from the King, or that I could get any competent number of men, to defend, or guard me, and my house, that he would safely surrender it up with all my Goods; and finding his love unto me, and of myself not able to secure it, by reason that my people left me, and likewise, that I had no Ammunition, was contented to give him leave to put some of his men into the House, to be a guard to preserve me from Rory, and the rest of his Forces, being persuaded that he would not attempt the House, it being in Master Bryan's custody; he likewise, gave me leave to make choice of the Natives, which were my own Tenants, for my guard; he came once a week to see me, that no man wronged me: And as soon as I perceived some of them that was my guard, to grow a little saucy, he put them out, and put others in. About three weeks after, he and James duff mac Gra, came to my house, whom I found desirous to have a protection, I told them, I would go to Iniskillin, to speak to Sir William Cole, concerning that, who were thankful to me for the motion; they sent six Horsemen with me to Sir William, and told him their desire; and desired him to write to Sir William Stuart, for Bryan and his Son, and Master Magra and his Son, which Sir William did, and sent the Letter with me to them, to be sent to Sir William Stuart, Sir William Cole had not then received his Commission: And likewise, at the same time, Master Bryan willed me to get some men to guard my House, for he would not willingly leave it; for these men he left to keep it: He was forced to pay them then fourteen pounds for their wages, or otherwise, he desired me to get a note under Sir William's hand, not to besiege the Castle, or else none of his people would stay in it for him, to preserve me, for fear of Sir William Cole: Which he refused to give me under his hand, but past his word to myself, so long as I was in the House he would not attempt it; then I desired him, to send some of his men along with me, and Bryan would render it up to him; which he refused to do, because he could spare none: So at my return again, they were pleased with Sir William's Letter to Sir William Stuart, likewise with Sir William's promise, That he would not invade my House, Bryan's guard were the more willing to stay with me: I stayed one month after that in my own House; and finding the guard to grow a little more insolent, I sent for Master Bryan, and did show him his men's carriage, and desired him to furnish me with some Horses, to carry somethings to Iniskillin, which he willingly granted, and appointed me a day, when I should go, and desired me, to procure Sir William's Licence for my Convoys safe return, which was granted by Sir William; and likewise Sir William wrote unto me, That he had no room in his Castle, but for some little things, being bepestered, and there was no safety in the Town for any thing; which made me leave most of my things behind me: And when I left my House, Bryan desired me to procure a guard from Sir William, and he would preserve my House, and all my Goods safe, for ten or twelve days, and deliver it up upon my Letter. I told Sir William, that my House would be delivered, if he would be pleased to send a guard to receive it, his answer was still alike, That he could spare none: The next morning after my coming to Iniskillin, Rory came to my House, and fell very foul with Bryan, for giving me way to go for Iniskillin; for at this same time, Rory was gathering of more men, and the word was to fire my House, which moved Master Bryan to put more men in it, to preserve it. Upon the Friday seven-night thereafter, Sir William sent his men out to attempt the Castle, and burned all my Office Houses: And the same night, those that was in the House, set it on fire, leaving the House within the Bawn, and the two Flankers unburned, and themselves went away: And the next day, Sir William sent to fetch such things, as were found there; and upon relation of those that was sent, that the House and Flankers stood unfired; he sent the next week, and caused to fire the same, together with the Mills. So Sir, this is the true manner, with the whole passages of my leaving of my House; and to affirm all this to be true, one Bryan mac Gwires part of his love, for my safety, he hath acknowledged it since, before Master Smith, Parson of Iniskillin, my Cousin, Captain William Atcheson, Ambrose Carleton, Torlaugh mac Gra, and Owen mac Gra, that he had no other design, but for the preservation of me, my Wife, and Goods, in regard he knew that Rory aimed otherwise for me, and did acknowledge, that he would have caused me to give up the House without assaulting, if it had been demanded: and those that were in it, did set it on fire, after they were assaulted by Sir William's people, before he knew of it; since which, he did never look upon his Nephew, whom he left in charge with the House, for burning of it: And moreover, That same day that I left my House with Bryan, he gave the Warders fourteen pound more, and sent a guard with those small Goods that I brought with me; and came himself to see me safely at the Waters-side. This with remembrance of my service, and my wives, to yourself, and to my Lady, beseeching God to grant you victory over your enemies, still I rest,  
Yours ever to Command, Roger Atkinson. Iniskillin, the 10. of October, 1642.  
I did hear Master Bryan acknowledge, before these forenamed persons, that his only aim was, in keeping of my Cousin's House, to preserve it for his use, from all others that intended no goodness to him; and would have sure rendered it at my Cousin's pleasure.  
Will. Atcheson.  
The Original of this Letter, the Repliant can produce, whereby doth appear, what an unthankful, and unnatural Neighbour, the Respondent proved to this distressed old Gentleman, and his virtuous Wife, who suffered much misery by the Respondents cruel neglect of them, and had suffered much more, had not the Repliant made means divers times to relieve them, as they lay miserable at the Respondents Garrison, until they were by the Respondent disgracefully sent away, amongst several hundreds of poor Rob people; who were sent to the Derry, without getting any share of the 1200. Suits of old apparel, and five hundred pound in Money and Victuals, sent in charity, by the Parliament; for the comfort and relief of the poor Protestants of that County.  
II. To the Respondents Answer, to this Repliants second Charge, this Repliant saith; Forasmuch, as upon the matter, the Respondent denyeth not, what therein is alleged against him: This Repliant might acquiesse therein, without more ado, and submit that unto judgement: But forasmuch, as the same is also stuffed with calumnies, and aspersions, cast upon this Repliant, by way of Recrimination, this Repliant craveth leave to Vindicate himself therein, and saith, For his part, he hath been so far from the envying the Respondent in his Commands, or any other, the British Colonels in Ulster, as that if it were pertinent to the question, he is well able to make it appear, That he hath contributed much to their assistance, and the Cause in hand; so far, as the force he had was able, and was not wanting unto the Respondent, in all good Offices, That to his power might advance the War against the Rebels, or further his proceed in any particular; yet this Repliant must confess, That he understanding the Respondents Forces, to be very considerable, as is confessed in his Answer, and able to have done greater service at the beginning against the Rebels, if he had been active; but many times, the Ronspondent lay still about his own Town and Castle, while as his Officers and Soldiers were most desirous to have been in action; and did many times solicit the Respondent, to relieve the Repliant, whilst he was in great danger with multitudes of Rebels to be destroyed, being several times blocked up in his Castle: But to this service, the Respondent was found both slow, and backward; which much troubled this Repliant, That such a man professing so much Neighbourly love, and being so well provided for the Service, should thus delay and forbear, relieving so many British souls, in such eminent danger, as than they were in; which was a Just cause to raise a Jealousy in this Repliant, That either the Respondent did it out of a careless disrespect to this Repliant, and his Charge, or to the Cause itself, or for some other private ends; which did minister an occasion, for this Repliant to be more watchful over himself, and that poor handful of men, which he commanded; setting before his eyes, no other ends, but the King and Parliaments Service, and the rooting out of those bloody Rebels, who would have destroyed us all.  
This Repliant cannot but admire the Respondents weakness, alleged in his Answer, That he should think to persuade any rational man, that in case the Respondent should justly suffer for his miscarriages in the matters charged against him; and should be therefore set by all employment in that Army, that it could not in the least, add any thing to this Repliant in his preferment; and since the Respondent administereth the occasion, this Repliant craveth leave, to let him know, That he was so far from envying the Respondents Honour, and greatness, in the Commissions he received from His Majesty, for that employment, that it was neither in thoughts or expectation, to believe, that His Majesty would join him in the same Commands with the Respondent, and the rest of the Ulster Colonels, the Repliant being at that time (as was thought) in some disfavour with His Majesty, for prosecuting the late Earl of Strafford. And this Repliant further saith, That as the Respondent never did any such actions, to the knowledge of this Repliant, that deserved to be envied: So hath this Repliant been as far from extolling any thing, done by himself, by God's assistance, that yet may better pretend to merit: Surely, he hath learned better things, then from any vainglorious Honour, to expect the admiration of any thing, but folly; from which, the Respondent himself is not altogether then free, whiles he indeavoureth by such petty, and vain assumptions, to raise an opinion of popularity, and that so great honour was conferred upon him, and laid down at his own doors without acquisition, or other endeavours of his own; and nothing more than what fame hath raised him unto before. And this Repliant further saith, That since of his own showing, it doth appear, that of the nine Companies raised, Armed, and Banded by him, as he allegeth, he only gained five hundred of them, to be inlisted, and his Troop of Horse; and if but Victual and Clothing for so many was allotted him, yet it had been the least, to have rewarded the four Companies (which he cashiered) with the rest, for the good service they had done him then formerly, in defending his Castle and Town: And their discontent, which he confesseth, and the disbanding themselves, doth clearly manifest his course usage of them, and that the truth is as hath been charged against him; for it is not to be credited, That if they might have shared, and partaken of those Provisions, that they would have parted in discontent, or disbanded themselves, and leave their kindly possessions and interest, in that Country, where many of them had been bred and born: Nor is it likely, that needy and necessitous men, would have refused his offer, to have partaken of those Supplies sent them, if they might have had a proportion thereof for their relief: And surely, it had been but equal, that the Respondent had shared and divided, the twelve hundred Suits of old , sent from this City of London, by his said Son in law, with these four cashiered Companies: Albeit, he would not let them have any part of the new, he keeping and disposing of which, and of five hundred pound worth more of Contribution Money, sent for the relief of the distressed Protestants in those parts, as pleased himself, and his said Son in law, Master Dean Barkley; they have not dealt so candidly and conscionably in this, as men of their profession should, and aught to have done: But if it be true, which is commonly reported there, That Master Dean Barkley sold such Corn, and other Provisions, as was bought with that Money, for relief of the distressed Protestant British, in those parts, and sent from hence, and therewith hath made himself a stock, where withal, he now drives a great Trade, by Tanning of Leather, at the Respondents Town of Iniskillin, and cannot be done without the Respondents privity and allowance: This Repliant submiteth it to judgement, if it be well done, thus to rob the Spittle; and what blessing can attend such proceed: And for the thirteen hundred pound worth of Corn, and Provisions, which he allegeth to have procured, upon his own credit, for the more supply of himself, and his Soldiers: This Repliant is certainly informed, That he hath put it to the Parliaments account, which those his creditors have taken for satisfaction, and are, and must be contented with such payment, when it may be well spared.  
III. To the Respondents Answer to the third Charge, this Repliant saith, That it consisteth only of invectives, fabulous inventions, and scandalous calumnies, made, and contrived, by the Respondent of purpose, to asperse this Repliant, without ground or colour; which appears, in that there is nothing therein material that concerns himself, but suppositions of things done to others, merely framed and hatched out of the inventions of his own vindictive brain; and yet of that consequence and concernment to this Repliant, That if the Respondent shall not make good his allegations, which he shall be never able to do, this Repliant prayeth, that repair from him, as shall be fit, and craveth leave, to let the Respondent know, That he understandeth better, what the danger is by Law, for any man to conspire the taking away of another man's life, where with he accuseth this Repliant, then to attempt it, and what such a false malicious accusation intendeth, and deserveth, this Repliant is assured, is understood by those that are their Judges; and it seemeth strange to this Repliant, That the Respondent should thus impudently overshoot himself, and his reason, as that he should imagine his vain and idle words, could possess any man with a belief, That the malice of an adversary could so charge the frame of the Law, as by that means he could inherit and possess his Estate. Say it were in a peaceable time, and how unlikely it is, That such a cruel and covetous disposition, should possess the Repliant, who at that time had his thoughts taken up with other kind of cares, then by such means, to purchase his Neighbours Lands, while as he daily looked to be devoured by multitudes of bloody Rebels; and how black those drops are, which hath fallen from his Lips, by which he hath charged this Repliant, That he can endure no Neighbourhood, is plain to all that hears it, and that understands the carriage, and conversation of this Repliant, for many years past, besides the incredibility thereof, that this Repliant should be so irregular, as not to submit unto Order and Government; to which, he must have been compelled: And denieth, that there was ever any such contestation, betwixt the said Dunbar, or the Hetheringtons, and this Repliant, as is most falsely pretended by the Respondent. But it appears, the said Dunbar was his creature, whom he so trusted with the keeping of a Castle at the beginning of this Rebellion; wherein it is credibly reported, the said Dunbar so basely behaved himself, as he made his own conditions with the Rebels, for himself and his Wife, sacrificing above fourscore of British souls to the Rebel's cruelty, who were all burned to death in an instant: As to the Hetheringtons having done that spoil upon this Repliants Tenants, and their said Estates and Goods as aforesaid; and the said Hetheringtons having lived amongst the Rebels with the said Dunbar, for a long time, it must needs be, that they were Papists, as is well known, or otherwise, they should not have been suffered to have lived amongst them, as they did; and for such services as they did for the Respondent, for which he gives them so great commendations; it is only known unto himself, and not believed or understood of any other that knew them formerly; nor doth it (under favour) any ways excuse the Respondent of his miscarriages of entertaining, and making use of them, being Papists and Rebels, for they were no better; and in refusing to bring them unto a Legal trial, when required for such offences, which was Treason by the Law of that Kingdom, let the Religion be what it will: And whereof they were so accused by His Majesty's good Subjects; and the Respondent being a minister of Justice, that upon such complaint, aught to have secured their persons, until trial of the matters objected; and if it be a sufficient excuse to free him from the accusation, because as he saith, no proof of the crime laid against them, appeared, proved, unto him, who (by his leave) was not a competent Judge of himself, to determine the facts and offences, charged against them: And this Repliant cannot forbear to tell him further, That besides it was unneighbourly, thus to set them free, after this intimation against them, made from this Repliant: So it argueth, how little he understood himself, and the Office of a Justice, that will voluntarily suffer a Prisoner to go at large, though but verbally at first accused, before he had examined the matter, and that they were legally acquitted; and from all that he hath said in his defence, from the guilt of this third Charge, informed against him, appeareth to be nothing, but mere matter of Recrimination, and without weight, that so he is still unexcusable of the crime objected.  
iv As to the Respondents Answer to the fourth Charge, given in against him by this Repliant: This Repliant saith, That the Respondent in the preceding parts of his Answer, having made shipwreck of a good conscience, and not spared the telling of many untruths, to serve his own turn; casting much dirt in the Repliants face, thereby hoping, that some will stick, and so to employ this Repliant in washing himself; that in the mean time, the Respondents foul offences may be forgotten, or he escape the hands of Justice for the same, have therefore left nothing unattempted, which may any wise, scandalise this Repliant, and bring him into disrepute, and disesteem, with the Parliament, or such as knows him not, hoping thereby to work out his own ends the better; but that his malice and impudence may the more clearly appear in his defence to this Charge, as in all the rest of his Answers. This Repliant further saith, That howsoever the Respondent from the relation of others, as he conceiveth, is pleased to magnify the said Park, both for his estate, and qualities, yet those that were his Neighbours for many years before this Rebellion broke out, (and therefore have more reason to know, and understand him better, than the Respondent) are able to say and prove otherwise: And that the Respondent only makes those many flourishes, concerning his reputation, as an insinuation to win credit, that he was an honest man, and so to weaken the belief of that which is objected against him, and the Respondent, concerning him; and yet it hath been found true by experience, That since this Rebellion began, many men, who in the time of Peace, lived orderly, and in good repute, and were employed in Offices and affairs, of great concernment, concerning that Kingdom; yet some such men out of covetous desires, to save their Estates, and for other by-ends of their own, have basely betrayed their Religion, and their Country, and joined with the Rebels against the Parliament, and their Forces there, of which sort, this Repliant doubteth not, but he shall make Master Park, appear to be one; and that if this Repliant had not upon intimation of his purposes and resolutions, taken and settled to go this way, as to secure his person and Castle, he had been out in action amongst the thickest of them, and so would have done much hurt unto the Protestant party there; and without peradventure they are Birds of the same Feather, from whom, the Respondent hath had his Intelligence to the contrary, if they be not merely fictious, and imaginations of his own; which the Repliant the rather believeth, for besides the certain Information which the Repliant had of Parcks' resolutions to join with the Rebels, and of his daily compliance with, and intercourse between them, he being then ordered by the State to observe this Repliants Commands, and to join with him in all things against them; the said Park not withstanding, had contemned several times to obey this Repliants Directions and Orders, and altogether declined whatsoever service he thought, might provoke or prejudice the Rebels; and yet this Repliant was so far from desiring the said Parcks' Estate, (which the Respondent hath most falsely, and scandalously alleged) as that only for the King and Parliaments Service, put in an Officer of his own, to command that Castle of Importance, being far from that base condition of coveting other men's Lands, having so much (by God's Providence of his own) as he had small hopes at that time to our live the danger he was in, much less to enjoy other men's Lands. But as it seemeth, the Respondent judgeth other men by his own known covetous humour, witness his barbarous usage of his worthy Neighbour, Captain Roger Atkinson, whose house and Land lay within a mile to the Respondent, which now he holds as his own, having in a manner banished the old Gentleman, and his Wife, whom he grudged a little charitable relief in his house, they having many times bountifully and freely supplied, and entertained the Respondent, with his Wife, and children, while as the Respondent was held a much inferior man in qualitic and condition to Captain Atkinson, whom the Respondent sent away amongst a Company of poor distressed Beggars, with his Convoy to London-Derry, where the Gentleman, and his distressed Wife, might have starved, if upon the Repliants credit, they had not been there relieved with five pounds to convoy them to Dublin, where they hoped to have met with me Lord Lyle, who was a near Kinsman to this Gentlewoman; and missing of him there, this Repliant is informed, That those two virtuous souls live still in great misery at Dublin, by reason of the cruel, barbarous, and unneighbourly usage of the Respondent, who might at first, conveniently have enabled them to have made good their own house, or otherwise to have helped them off with a great deal of their best Goods, and Householdstuff, which the Respondent for other base ends of his own, exposed all to ruin, much invying in time of Peace, the worthy and good esteem, which both the State and Neighbours in the Country had of Captain Atkinson, and his virtuous Bedfellow, for the free and charitable way of living, to the comfort of all sorts of good people, both of great, and mean condition, who used to travel in that Country.  
As concerning the two Witherspins', both father and son, that they were Scotchmen; it is confessed, But so much the more unworthy to be of that Nation, as they proved Traitors and Rebels against the King and Parliament; concerning whose carriage, it was in manner following, That these men whom the Respondent pleaseth himself to give so much commendation, as if naming such two Scotchmen, should engage the Nation to adhere to his poor Recriminating way of vindicating himself.  
James Witherspin, the Son being married to a mere Irish woman, and known to be of a most wicked base disposition from his childhood, and one who had been accused of Felony, and found guilty before the Rebellion; and upon the first breaking out thereof, soon after himself and his Wife, joined themselves with the Rebels, leaving his Father and Mother (two old people) in the Repliants Garrison, which the Repliant had just reason to suspect, as Spies, many times advising them to keep by themselves, since their Son and Daughter had joined themselves with the Rebels. And about the month of February, before the supposed first of July, mentioned in the Respondents Answer, alleging that old Witherspin to be taken in Sligoe, and shot to death by this Repliants own hand; in which month of February, the said James Witherspin the son, was then (in actual service and rebellion, against the King and Parliament) a Muskettier with the Rebels, under the Command of Bryan Ballagh O Roirk, who then lay encamped, with a many others, about this Repliants Castle, and Garrison; whereof this Respondent well knew, and had strength enough to have relieved this Repliant, and was many times importuned by Captain Cathcart, and others of his Officers, to have endeavoured the Repliants relief; but the Respondent with frivolous excuses, being desirous (as since, and now it doth appear) to have the Repliant rather to be cut off, did suffer him with his handful of men, to take their hazards, envying the Repliants activeness with so poor a handful, as may appear by his vindictive humour, against this Repliant, whom God Almighty prospered so well, as with his own handful, one morning the rogues were surprised in their Camp, their siege raised, and a many of the Rebels killed; the foresaid old John Whither spin, taken prisoner amongst the Rebels, who the night before had stolen out of the Repliants Garrison, to meet with his son James Witherspin; where that night, he confessed to be much made off by the Colonel Bryan Ballagh O Roirk, to whom he delivered twelve pounds' sterlin, in ready money, which he intended for his son James Witherspin: So that for this Treason, upon his own confession, the Father was undoubtedly hanged in February, which the Repliant is ready to prove with sufficient witnesses, now in Town: How the Respondent shall prove, that in July after, the Repliant should meet with a man so many months dead before, and ten miles distant from the place of his burial; let him prove his being there, and the Repliant hopes to be excused for shooting such a one with his own hand. Therefore desires no further vindication of his own honour, from this scurrilous, base, Libelling way of recrimination of the Respondents, than what credit this history brings him, amongst all indifferent, and impartial readers. And as for the said James Witherspin the son, it is confessed, that the first of July, being the night, the Repliant with his small handful, attempted the burning of that Town of Sligoe, which then sheltered a many bloody Rebels, who had murdered and massacred many poor British in it, which stuck much in the Repliants stomach, whom God made his weak Instrument, to revenge that night that innocent blood; where amongst the rest of the Rebels, the foresaid James Witherspin was taken prisoner, and brought home to the Repliants Garrison; where upon his own confession, That he had served as a Muskettier amongst the Rebels, and had done his best at several times, to endeavour the ruin and destruction of the Repliants Garrison; upon which confession of the said Wither spin, he was justly hanged as this Repliant concerveth, and for no such cause, as is falsely and scandalously alleged by the Respondent; and how apt this Respondent is to take up any thing upon trust, and credit of others, that may vent his spleen against this Repliant, doth easily appear, though it be nothing material to this purpose, for the vindicating of himself, but rather of the Rebels, and their treacherous adherents.  
And this Repliant further saith, That the Respondent faileth mightily in his Answers, wherein he attributes it to the information of Witherspin, and the assistance of Park and his men, That in this Repliants return from burning of Sligoe, he escaped the surprise of the Rebels, who was lying in wait for him, with a great Body of men in his way homeward, which was easily perceived by our Scouts, that went before us, to which we gave better credit, then to Witherspins' information: And for Park, it is true, This Repliant carried him along with him as a Prisoner, and not to guard his person; neither is it altogether unlikely, but the said Park had a hand in that meeting of the Rebels that day, which was thought should have been the day, the said Park should have put himself and his Castle, in the hands of the Rebels, had not God put it in the heart and head of this Repliant, to do as he did the night before, in seizing upon the said Park and his Castle, and burning of the said Town of Sligoe, which were the first actions that ever gave comfort or probable security, to the Repliant, and his handful. As for the Respondents other expressions, and scurvy scandalous aspersions in his Answer to this fourth Article, more proper to come from the mouths of Carmen and Oyster-wives, then from the head and hand of so courageous a Colonel, as the Respondent would seem to be at his years, being past date before his preferment came upon him; and had not this Repliant received a Copy of the Respondents Answer, under his own hand, he should not have believed there had been a man in the world, having any drop of a Gentleman's blood in him, that could have invented so many gross slovenly falsehoods, much less to have presumed to publish such untruths to such an Honourable Committee, and Assembly, whom the Repliant holds more wronged, than he dare presume to express; for in many of his Allegations, his malice rageth without limit or moderation: And it behoves him (we say) that tells untruths, to have a good memory. The Respondent seems very week this way, That either through the infirmity of doting age, or through some other weakness, forgets so much, as that he saith, and unsaith the same thing again, first he would have it believed that this Repliant plundered Master Park, and then afterwards confesseth, That both his Castle and Goods were (by Order of the Council Board in Ireland, where the marquis of Ormond sits as chief, executed by the Respondents Commands, and his Soldiers in the time of the Cessation made with the Rebels, and in this Repliants absence from home) restored to him again; and howsoever, he would mince the matter, and set a fair gloss herein upon his proceed; he doth not deny his guiltiness of the crime objected, and so to be a complier with the Rebels, as to that Cessation, and by obeying their Orders, who holds it with them: And as this Repliants compelling the said Parcks Soldiers to obey his commands; why should the Respondent think it an offence, when both Park himself, and they (before the Cessation) were enjoined to it by the Council Table in Ireland. And this Repliant further saith, That the Respondent is pleased to lessen and extenuate the Repliants services, which for want of his assistance, this Repliant was not able to do, what he might have done, and in doing what he did with that handful of men he had; he can approve, that he did more by much, than the Respondent who had ten times the Repliants number, under his command, by the Respondents own confession. And this Repliant humbly prayeth, it may be understood, That the Respondent indeavoureth to blemish this Repliant in the opinion of the Parliament; for that he refused to set Park at liberty, by command of the Orders of the Council Board in Ireland, having then concluded a Cessation of Arms with the Rebels; and being therefore declared enemies to the Parliament of England, by which tacitly, and by consequence, he himself approveth thereof; and by executing their Orders and Commands, in this particular, declareth himself obedient to their directions; which he cannot shift from his shoulders by carrying two faces in one hood, and pleasing himself as free, by (holding a detestable neutrality at the best) that he can say for himself; And as for that information of the Respondents, in his Answer concerning Abbercroomy, this Repliant saith, That therein he also follows the same tract, as concerning Master Park, endeavouring first to raise him high in opinion for his Abilities in time of Peace, which to be true, as it is not so, as the Respondent setteth forth, yet if Abbercroomy, or any man snall in such time, be never so just, and serviceable to the state wherein he liveth, if in such a time of Rebellion as this, he shall fall away from his dut●, and the obedience he oweth to God and his Country, as a subject, and shall join with, aid, or adhere to Idolatrous Rebels, against his King and Parliament, either unworthily to save his estate, or upon any pretext whatsoever, he hath thus (under favour) forfeited the Remembrance of whatsoever was good and commendable in him before, and is to be looked upon in the present condition wherein he so remains. Then the said Abbercroemy refused to join with this Repliant against these Rebels, forsook his own house, and willingly joined himself with the Rebels, and was afterwards taken by this Repliant amongst them; and what the said Abbercroomy deserved in this case, this Repliant submiteth to judgement; yet did not the Repliant use him after that fashion, as the Respondent is pleased to inform, but gave him better entertainment, than he was worthy off that had so behaved himself, and commanded, that he should not want any thing that was sufficient for him, being himself straitened, and in a hard condition in an enemy's Country, and without hope of other help, than what he could get from the Rebels by his Sword, having no expectation to be relieved, but by the Respondent; Whose affection towards him, and care to preserve him, and his family, from destruction (in so great danger and extremity) is well understood by this Respondents relations, in his answers set forth, this Repliant is confident, is but a mere suggestion of the Respondent; for if the said Abbercroomy had any cause of complaint, against the Repliant in the least, he was in Scotland a long time together with this Repliant, where he should have been sure to have had justice done him; and if he were so ingrate towards this Repliant, as to inform any such thing to the Respondent, it had been greater wisdom in him, by much (under favour) not to have believed the report of a discontented man in his own cause, but to have buried it in silence rather, being altogether without proof, and not thus to have shown his weakness in the publishing thereof, which he can never be able to make good; and if to have been so (as it is not) are without consideration at all: the Respondent might with more discretion also, have spared to proclaim his charity towards him, which makes the verity thereof more suspected; but having seldom done so before, if so he did, he could not forbear to tell it as a thing unusual, and rare in him, to have been performed to nearer Neighbours. And this Repliant further saith, That he doth not believe the Respondent did, or was able to receive Cloth, and feed all the Protestants of that Country where he lived; and doubteth not to prove, that he sent hundreds away also from himself, whom he was no ways able to harbour and maintain, and that some of them also by accident, perished in their journey; and yet this Repliant will be more charitable towards him, then for to believe he did it of any other intent, then that he might the better preserve himself, and those under his Command; for charity hath never before this time, been blamed to begin at home; and yet the Respondent had in this case, means, and hopes of succours, and supplies, which this Repliant neither had, nor could hope for, or expect, if not by the Respondents means, whom this Repliant had by his experience found to be otherwise minded towards him, as is herein sufficiently discovered, which shall be all this Repliants answer to that particular: more than that he utterly denieth, That ever he did send any poor Protestant away succourless, that fled to him for relief, without some supplies, and with such convoy and protection in their passages, as he could safely spare, and leave wherewith to maintain his Garrison; nor was there any such differences between the said Sir John Dunbar, and his Son, as is alleged by the Respondent, merely to make out the matter, and to raise the untruth unto a higher pitch, nor can this great clamour be possibly believed, That whiles there was Peace in that Kingdom, and the Law was open for every man's complaint of any injury done him, that any man would suffer wrong by this Repliant, and not right himself, being well known what favour the Repliant might expect from the late Earl of Strafford, and the than Viscount Rannellagh, which two commanded both the Kingdom and Province, where this Repliant lived.  
V To the Respondents Answer to the fifth Charge, this Repliant saith, That forasmuch as this Respondent hath fully confessed the same, there needeth no reply to be made unto it (under favour and correction) yet in as much as the Respondent indeavoureth to extenuate the same offence, by his ignorance, and want of knowledge, of the affairs of that State, and how things then moved at Dublin, or in the Parliament here, at that time: This Repliant saith, That before the Cessation concluded at Dublin, and whiles it was in agitation, and in Order to the same, the Lord marquis of Ormond, and Council there, made the same known unto all the Colonels and Commanders in Ulster, as this Repliant hath heard; and so doubteth not to prove; and that the Respondent had intimation thereof, amongst the rest, and his approbation therein was desired; and likewise after the same was so unhappily concluded, the said Lord marquis, and Council, immediately afterwards intimated the same again unto them all, and to the Respondent amongst the rest, Commanding their obedience, and observation thereof, which was in time made, and done, the _____ of September, 1643. above four months before the Respondent, by his own showing, received the said Rebels into protection; and it is without all peradventure, and so this Repliant doubteth not to prove, that even those Rebels themselves moved it unto the Respondent, as a great persuasive to obtain that favour at his hands; and from whom also, he had perfect notice of the Lord marquis of Ormond, his being then made Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, and that he was declared an enemy to the Parliament, and the welfare of that Kingdom; the Respondent also, before this time, was certainly informed by those Letters, sent from the Parliament of England into Ulster, by Captain O Connelly, and otherwise, how that they had declared themselves against the said Cessation, and moving the British Regiments to receive the solemn League and Covenant of the Kingdoms; nor was the Respondent so straitened in his Quarters, but that he had continual Intelligences from London-Derry, and other parts of Ulster, and could not be ignorant of the passages of the State, and how things moved at that time there, and in the Parliament here, and therefore inexecusable; and it is so far from lessening, as it doth rather aggravate his offence, that he would receive those Rebels into protection without Order, and without being first informed of all these passages of State, and things, in case he had been then ignorant thereof, as he was not; besides his fears to be supplied by the State there, and his little expectation to be furnished in due time from hence, clearly informs his knowledge of these proceed, and that he rested then in doubt, and in a detestable neutrality, to which side he should adhere; and therefore upon the matter, was resolved to keep both sides his friends, if possibly he could, and would make use of the Rebels also, to serve his own turn, and that so he might stand well affected in the opinions of them also: But as it was not an Act warrantable, and justifieable, under the power of any Commission he had; so was it indiscreetly done, and of great disservice unto the Parliament, That this Repliant, and those who were environed by the enemy, and in a great strait, and in much harder condition, than the Respondent, and yet both understanding off, and opposing the said Cessation, were much discouraged and disheartened, to see those Rebels under the Respondents protection, to enter their Quarters, and places thereabouts; and to rob and spoil them of that, whereby they had hope of subsistence: For the Cows mentioned in the Respondents Answer to the fifth Article, were not the proper Goods of the Respondents protected Rebels, but prey which they had taken from the good subjects; and therefore, more fit for to have been possessed by thy Repliants Soldiers, when they had once gotten them, then by those Rebels; and yet such was the Respondents zeal and care for them, that by his own confession, he sent afterwards unto the State of Dublin, then in Cessation of Arms with the Rebels, complaining thereof against this Repliants Soldiers, and gaining Orders from thence, for restitution. And in the absence of this Repliant, procured the same to be restored even to the Parliaments enemies, and to be taken from the Parliaments friends, and servants; besides, his further inclination to that Government, is observable, Wherein he charges it as a crime against the Repliant, That he should not observe the Lord Maquesse of Ormond, and the Commands of that State, even by a compliance with Rebels, his protected crew, before mentioned; Besides, that he applauds it as an Act of conformity to those Commands, that now in this Repliants absence, he hath persuaded the Repliants Soldiers to a near conjunction with him therein, and deplores it as a great prejudice to his benefit: That as he saith by this Repliant and his Soldier's means, he hath thus lost this bargain, and yet afterwards confesseth a many of them to be still within his quarters, faithfully holding the said agreement. And this Repliant further saith, That for his part, he disclaimeth his knowledge of any such persons, as are named in the Respondents answer, to be by him, and his Officers protected, much more the protecting of them upon his Land; and if the Respondents Acts of like nature, hath now drawn it into example, and made the Repliants Officers in his absence, to fall into such an error and mistake, he hopeth it cannot be imputed unto this Repliant for a transgression, yet cannot believe, that any such thing hath been done; howsoever, that taketh nothing from the Respondents offences, but further showeth the extent of his malice, and what hurt he would do unto this Repliant, if he were able.  
VI To the Respondents Answer to the sixth Article, or Charge given in against him by this Repliant, he saith, That it is possible that the said Bryan mac Coconaught mac Gwire, in his answer named, might do the Respondent those services also, mentioned in his answer, to this Charge: But it is very improbable and unlikely to him, that understands him not, or that any Papist so allied to the very prime and chief of the Rebels, especially where the Rebellion is pretended to be raised, to gain the free exercise of their idolatrous Religion, and to regain their Lands formerly forfeited, and disposed of from them to the British, by the State, should do these services for the State: But to admit it to be so in his person, and that for those reasons given, the Respondent may be, and was well dispensed with, for receiving him into protection; yet to receive all those, together with him, if no more than is confessed, is not so justifiable (under favour) especially, when he that is acquainted with the quality and nature of those Irish people, the meaner sort of them, to wholly addicted unto treacheries, and perfidiousness: Besides, that the principals of their Religion teacheth them to be so, and no longer, to hold, and keep Faith with us, whom they call Heretics, than it serves their own turns: That he which is versed and read in the Histories, the Irish Wars, in former ages, or that hath had his conversation there amongst them, can justify all this for truth; and what a great deal of Protestant blood they have their shed, by breaches of that trust which have been reposed in them, by the English, from time to time, being naturally merciless, and cruel upon advantages; that it hath never been accounted safe in the undertake of any great designs, to have them joined, either in Counsel or Action, being also base and cowardly spirited, where they are subjected, and have not been observed to perform any great services; but where by treachery or power, they have in an instant gotten first the mastery, and then no Savages have been so bloody and butcherly minded, as they; that albeit, this Bryan mac Coconaught mac Gwire may be one black Swan amongst the rest; yet upon what ground he received such a crew, of his followers into protection with him, and employed them, whose treacheries and revolt, is by himself confessed, this Repliant must say, that as yet he neither seethe ground, nor good discretion for it; and yet this Repliant craveth leave, to tell the Respondent this much, That it was a little preposterous, and out of order, first to do an unlawful Act, and then to justify it with an allowance afterwards, which is the very best of the Respondents case in this particular: And albeit, some times for money and reward, and to save their own lives, they have been known to have betrayed their own parents unto destruction; yet it hath been seldom seen, that they have been drawn to do such service in a Military way, and under a Protestant Commander, whilst they have continued to be Papists; nor was the hanging of one man (left for a pledge) a sufficient recompense for the great hurt, and prejudice, they did unto the cause, whiles they remained in service with the Respondent; and afterwards, being with the enemy, to whom no doubt, they related and discovered, whatsoever they understood, that might be any ways disadvantageous to this side, and knoweth now the better how to take the opportunities to put them in execution. And as to that Printed relation of the Repliants services performed, and done against those Rebels, which the Respondent is pleased to term scandalous calumnies in several places thereof, which concerns himself and Officers, this Repliant saith, and must so far excuse himself, That it was not a thing done immediately by his direction and appointment, or that he desired it, but was done in a time, when he was then in his Garrison at Mannor-Hammilton, and far remote from this City, the same being sent to a friend of his at London-Derry, who afterwards coming hither, and by him that is now the Respondents, or Colonel Meevins Secretary; Tarlton tendering it to the public view, it was directed to be Printed; of which, the Respondent may also be pleased upon a better review, to observe thus much concerning it, That it is not a relation of this Repliants own, but of one of his Clerks, who as it should seem, kept a Diary of the passages and proceeding done by them in that time, which he was desirous to communicate, for the publishing of God's great mercy towards that handful, and the Respondents arrogancy, and unneighbourly neglect of them: So that if any thing therein contained, is troublesome and grievous to the Respondent, he hath no reaso to except against this Repliant for the same; And yet since the Respondent hath therefore brought him upon the stage, he must do his Clerk that wrote it, that right, as to justify, and maintain, whatsoever is therein contained to be true; nor was there any such waiting upon this Repliant, by this Respondent and his Soldiers required, as is imagined; it was for the King and Parliaments Service, the relief of the Repliant, and his distressed Garrison, and destruction of the Rebels, that this Repliant so often importuned the Respondent to join with him; nor can this Repliant conceive, what should be the cause or reason of his backwardness, if not that by such delays, the Repliant might be destroyed and cut off; and it had been well, if at this time, the Respondent had also forborn the relation of his great Services, set forth in his answer, because he hath upbraided this Repliant of vainglory for the like, nay, for not so much, if not for nothing, as may be understood, by that which hath been said before, and herein, because he confesseth the destroying of two hundred ninety and six of the Rebels, and the famishing, and starving of many hundreds of them more, by Preys of Cows, and other spoil, which he took from them since the Cessation, and by rescuing and redeeming of five thousand four hundred sixty and nine English and Scots, Protestants, from the hands of the Enemy; for the latter, it follows, to be done in performance of the Articles of the said Cessation, and may be verily believed, it being done in time after the said Cessation, as may be inferred from the Respondents Answer; and for which, not withstanding the Respondent doth well merit, for the relieving of so many distressed souls: But how this, and the kill of so many Rebels in this time, being Acts so opposite, and of so differing a nature, one unto the other, as to keep, and not to keep, the said Cessation, is the thing which strikes most with this Repliant to believe; howsoever, the Preys of Cows, and spoil taken, may well be so, for this made for the profit and benefit of the said Respondent, and his Companies; and who were far enough from the fear, to answer any complaint at Dublin, for the same.  
And as the Respondent being one of the first Colonels of the British in Ulster, that took the solemn League and Covenant: This insinuation is as true as the rest; for it is well known, That all those of the Scottish Army had taken it before, and had not the Repliant been the best means of taking it at the Derry, it had been hardly taken by the Respondent there for all his brags, which suits with his other policy; yet he forbears to mention the place where he took it, or in what COMPANY, not having taken it in the properest place for the Respondent, to have given good example to his Officers and Soldiers in his own Garrison at Iniskillin, whether the Reverend Ministers went to tender the said Covenant; and having Preached to the Respondent, with his Officers and Soldiers, the Sermon being ended, and the Ministers about to explain and tender the Covenant; the Respondent in a disrespective manner, and to the ill example of his Officers and Soldiers, went immediately out of the Church, thinking a many would have followed him, which doubtless they had, if their minds had not been better inclining to that solemn League and Covenant, and to the King and Parliaments Service, than their Colonel was known to be; who perceiving himself in that condition, fearing what esteem he might be in amongst his Officers and Soldiers, and how his carriage might be informed off to the Parliament, did (it may be out of those earthly ends) take the Covenant, before he ventured to apply himself to the Parliament. Now what thanks this man deserves in this passage and carriage of his, let any indifferent man be Judge.  
And this Repliant further saith, That he is not able to judge of the Respondents desires, which he pretendeth he had several times, to have relieved this Repliant; But of this he is sure, he never expressed the same in any real manner, while as the Repliant and his poor handful, many times were in great distress, and therewith did advertise the Respondent, who was always ready, rather to weaken the Repliant, by debishing his Messengers, persuading them to encourage the Repliants Soldiers to run away, as many of them did, and were afterwards distributed and sheltered under the Respondents several Companies, as may appear by this Copy of a Petition, directed to the Repliant, by one of his runaway Soldiers, as followeth.  

The Humble Petition of John Brooks, To his Honourable Col. Sir Frederick Hamilton, Knight.  
ACknowledging, that notwithstanding your Petitioners several kind usages under your Command, far beyond his merit, yet being seduced by the base persuasions, and enticements of John Jeyns, William Vinton, and divers others of your Soldiers, your Petitioner was at last persuaded, contrary to his Oath, to run from his Colours, towards Sir William Cole, offering ourselves to be disposed off by him; who immediately sent for all his Captains, with whom he advised how to dispose of us, who resolved, we should be divided amongst their several Companies; and to that purpose, did immediately cast lots for us, your Petitioner falling to Lieutenant Colonel Acheson, Thomas Vinton to the Sergeant Major Graham, John Jeyns to Captain Cole, Michael Kent to Captain Goodfellow, William Vinton to Captain Roff●. And this being your Petitioners first fault, Humbly prayeth, it may be forgiving, promising never to offend any more in the like kind, etc.   
By this may appear, the neighbourly carriage of the Respondent towards the Repliant; as likewise by these Depositions following, taken upon the discovery of a Treacherous Plot, contrived at Sir William Coles Garrison in Iniskillin.  

The Depositions of William Wagh, James Wagh, And divers others of Sir Fred. Hammiltons' Soldiers.  
THe Deponants being duly sworn, doth prove, That William Jenison being lately returned from Sir William Coles Garrison at Iniskillin, the said Jenison told the Deponants, that he was desired by a prime Officer of Sir William Coles, to try if he could prevail with ten or twelve of Mannor-Hammilton Soldiers to come overwith him to Iniskillin, and there to Petition Sir William Cole against their hard usage, and strict Discipline at Mannor-Hammilton: The said Officer promising, That if so many of them would come over in this manner, that Sir William should presently, either take them on in his own Troop, or otherwise divide them amongst his Captains, as the former runaways, who were disposed off, so as they came not under the number of ten, and what above he could prevail with; for if they came fewer, they would be committed, and returned back again: Upon which encouragements, the Deponants do confess, to have conditioned with divers others to have run away with them, had not their Plot the night been discovered.   

The Depositions of Robert Urwine.  
WHo deposeth, that upon Tuesday the 22. of December last, as the Deponant stood Centery on the Rock, William Wagh, and his Brother James, came to this Deponant, telling him, that night, that themselves, and divers others of their Colonel's Soldiers, were to run away to Sir William Cole, where they should have greater liberty for plundering, or what else they had a mind to, than they had where they were, desiring the Deponant to go along with them, who replied, he knew not how conveniently so many of them could get away together, they replied, that the Plot was laid so, That some Firelocks, which were agreed to go with them, should (after the Parade was set, and Castle Gate shut in) plant themselves behind the Rocks, and give an Alarm to the Castle in the night, as if the Rebels had surprised them, which would put some confusion amongst them in the Castle at that time of the night, as they might easily be gone far enough out of the reach of being catched before day.   
By these Depositions it may be easily guessed, what comfortable Neighbourhood the Repliant had with the Respondent, who in July following, being in great distress for want of Corn and Cattle, in his own Garrison, and not to be had in that Country near him; the Repliant having by this time, (through the great power and merciful providence of God) with his small handful, so beaten the Rebels from about him, as he brought preys daily from amongst them, where with he acquainted the Respondents then distressed Garrison, being desirous the Respondent would have spared this Repliant a Party of his men, having no great employment at that time near himself for them; whereupon, the Respondent did at that time, send his Lieutenant Colonel with a Party of Horse and Foot, and a Letter to this Repliant, mentioning, that he had now sent by his Lieutenant Colonel, such a Party to be made use of by the Repliant, in scouring of the County, or in whatsoever other kind of service this Repliant should think fit to employ them in, without limitation of any time mentioned in his Letter, or of any such thing, as is most falsely suggested in the Respondents answer, That he had sent them to relieve the Repliant, or that he heard of any siege or leaguer to be then about him, though at the Repliants meeting with his Officers, and his unfortunate Son in law, Dean Barkley, he was told by them, that at their parting with the Respondent, they were limited by his Orders from his own mouth, not to be aosent from their Garrison above forty eight hours, quite contrary to the contents of his Letter: Whereupon the Repliant told them, it was an impossibility, in so short a time, to engage them in any service, or for the Repliant to make any use of them, therefore advised them to march back again; which all of them seemed most unwilling, to retreat to their Garrison, until they were once commanded upon some service by the Repliant in the fields; who was persuaded by their importunities, to march out with them towards a Castle called Dromahear, being within six miles to the Repliants Castle: Which said Castle of Dromahear (at that time) had divers Rebels of great consequence in it, as likewise Sir Robert Hannay, and his Lady, prisoners, the Repliant having most probable hopes to have taken, both the Castle and Rebels, and relieved the prisoners, had the Respondents officers and Soldiers, stuck to this Repliant and his small handful but one night longer, which all of the Officers had resolved to have done, if it had not been the base, and imperiousness, of that profane Son in law Dean Barkley, who peremptorily took upon him, to command the Officers of that party of the Respondents, to march away, and forsake the Repliant and his Soldiers, whereof he lost two, being shot dead in working at the Walls, having past all the difficulties in carrying of the Castle; and if we had but lain by it that night (as was confessed by Sir Robert Hannay himself, and divers others that were then in it, which the Repliant can prove by credible Witnesses that heard them speak it) we had got it. So that the Respondents information of the Repliants sending for his Party, in manner as is alleged, by the Respondent in this particular, is notoriously known to be most false: As likewise, there was not any use or need at all of Ordnance, for the taking in of that Castle of Dromahear, the Repliant having sufficient intelligence of the condition and posture of that Castle, before he attempted it; where the Respondents Soldiers were never engaged in any dangerous passage of that Service, only what his Lieutenant Colonel Acheson pleased to offer, and venture himself to go on with the Repliant, to see his Soldiers set a work at the Walls, most of the Respondents Party having dispersed themselves in plundering of the Country, not being subject to Discipline, scarce owning the Orders of an Officer: Such was the neglect and carelessness of the Respondent, to have his men Disciplined, which was known to be the loss of a many good men, which he commanded when they pleased. As to the Repliants usage of the Respondents Officers and Soldiers, it is well known to be far more bountiful and honourable, then ever the Respondent used them himself, the Officers having well deserved it; having behaved themselves civilly, with much regrate, to observe the Repliant and themselves, both so abused by the private Orders, which their Colonel had given to his indiscreet Son in law, Dean Barkley, who so unworthily behaved himself, as if he had been sent a purpose with that Party to pick a quarrel, and to put an affront upon the Repliant, not sparing publicly to threaten all the Officers, who were unwilling to leave that Castle of Dromahear, being engaged before it, and seeing such probability to have carried it that night: Nevertheless, did the Repliant entertain all the Officers in his Castle, as also the Soldiers, every man of them, who many times confessed, they never expected the like entertainment of meat and drink from their Colonel: This being the greatest affront, and abuse the Respondents Officers and Soldiers met withal at hat time, all of them acknowledging most thankfully their kind entertainment, thinking fit with one consent of the Officers, to leave three or four men out of each Company, for a small supply to the Repliants number, who were daily a wasting upon service: As likewise, the Lieutenant Colonel knowing the great necessity and want, the Repliant was in for Powder, did think fit to spare him ten or twelve pounds' weight, which was no great matter for one Garrison, in such extremity, to relieve another: Nevertheless, did Dean Barkley in a malicious vindictive railing humour, except against the Officers, for that small courtesy the Repliant had of them; alleging, the power of that Party to have been committed to his charge and trust, by his Father in law, and that he would give no consent, for leaving any Men, or Ammunition, for the Repliants safety or relief, and so incensed the Respondent against his Officers for that Act, as if they had relieved the Rebels, forcing them very shortly after, to write for their men, which some of them would not do, telling him, they had rather lose their Companies, then to be accessary to the danger and destruction of the Repliant, for want of so few men, who had deserved better of them all. Now let any man judge of the impudent boldness of this Respondents information in this particular: There being nothing material as an Answer to any part of the Charge against him.  
And this Repliant confesses, That the Respondent about the said month of May following, came with certain Companies of Horse and Foot towards this Repliant, but denieth, That the Respondent came upon any design or intention of his own head, to do service in the Province of Conaught, as is most untruly suggested in his scandalous answer: But the Repliant shall truly inform the cause and encouragement the Respondent had for that march, which doth more clearly appear, by this Copy of a Letter, this Repliant sent him.  
SIR,  
IT hath pleased God so to bless my small Party, this morning, as they have burnt off a great many Houses and Villages in the County of Sligoe, and Barony of Caroury, and have killed a many more of your Uster Rogues, in and about the Castle of the Grange, near sixteen miles from hence, where Hugh mac Towel O Gailachour, with divers others, chaste out ofVlster, hath maned this Castle of the Grange: From whence, we brought a good Prey of Cows. And as we marched homewards with our Prey an Ambush of of 400. or 500, Ulster Rebels, was laid for us, which men belonged to Mannus mac Neal, Garve O Donnel, Torilagh Roe O Boyl, Torilagh mac Caffry O Donnel, with a many of the O Gallachours, who thought themselves so strong, as some of their prisoners did report, That when they saw my Party marching, they said, they would be but a breakfast to them: But God in his wontedmercy hath so blessed my men, as for all their hard march last night and sore service about the Castle. As I believe, these Ulster Rogues find but a poor reckoning of the most of their best men, our Party having left stripped upon the Fields, above threescore of naked Bodies, of which number, was one Marcusse O Clery, who had long served the King of Spain, in whose Poceats were found divers Passes written in Spanish, mentioning several Services he had performed there. Thus did we beat them; bringing home abundance of their Arms, most of them new Muskets, and Calivers, marked with the sign of the Cross on their Priming Pans: We likewise took prisoner, he that had charge of the Ammunition, with whom we found a great Bag of Powder, a most welcome commodity for us; which (as he tells me) was all the Powder that was amongst them. Now Sir, in discharge of my duty to God, and His Majesty's Service, I have thought sit, (not withstanding your many great neglects and unkindnesses towards me) to acquaint you with these passages. My men being few, and sorely wearied out, some of them deadly wounded, so as I am unable without help, to lay hold on this brave opportunity so suddenly as is requisite to perform the rest of this Service, being credible informed by divers prisoners, that there is 10000 of their Cows, within ten miles to this Castle, driven hither from Boylagh and Bannagh, assuring you, were my men as fresh now, as they were yesterday morning, knowing the Rogue's Posture as we have now left th●m, we would grudge you, or any man else, a share of the second part of this Service, who was not at the first. But now as it is, an offer is made you of welcome to the purpose, where you shall find (if you will be advised) worth your pains to fetch it: So as we may have but your help for killing of the Rogues, you shall be your own Carvers for all the Cows; What you do, do it quickly; for this Service can brook no delay, lest the Rogues having met with no better welcome into Conaught, endeavour to hasten from whence they came. Thus expecting your speedy Answer, as you tender God's glory, the King's service, and Common Cause, I rest  
Yours, ready to join with you, for God, and His Majesty's Service, Fred. Hamilton. Castle Hamilton, the 15. of May. 1643.  
By this Letter may appear, the main grounds of the Respondents mentioned service, intended for the Province of Conaught; to wit, for catching of Cows, being promised to be his own Carver, as the Repliants Letter mentioned; never formerly having made any such haste for the Repliants relief, while as he stowed in danger of being destroyed. And since the Respondent hath thus engaged the Repliant to answer the several base, unworthy, and most impudent untruths alleged by the Respondent in this passage, the Repliant craves leave to inform the truth, That hearing the Respondent was in person with his party within a mile or two, to this Repliants Garrison, and being informed, the Respondent intended to come no nearer, the Repliant thought fit (being at that time sick in Bed) to command the Gentleman, who then commanded the Repliants Horse, to take with him a party of Horse to attend the Respondent, and to let him know, the desire the Repliant had (being so near other) that they might speak together, and withal, to inform the Respondent of the Repliants sickness at that time: But it seems, the guiltiness of the Respondents conscience, did possess him with some base jealousies, that the Repliant had some design upon him, so that he absolutely refused to come near the Repliant, but sent his Lieutenant Colonel Acheson, and Captain Adam Catheart, with orders to go back to the Repliants Castle, with his party of Horse, and that they should deliver from the Respondent, a Paper to the Repliant, which contained as followeth.  

May 20. 1643.  
HUgh oge mac Gwily informed, that Hester Edward's tells him, That her Brother. Richard Edward's, a Soldier of Mannor-Hammilton, charged her to notify unto Sir William Cole, That Sir Frederick Hamilton did purpose to lay hold, and imprison the said Sir William Cole, if ever he could get him within the Castle of Mannor-Hammilton, wishing, that this may be a Caveat unto the said Sir William Cole to prevent him.   
Upon reading this Paper, which this Repliant received, being in Bed, he asked the Lieutenant Colonel, and Captain Cathcart, if Sir William Col● had commanded them to deliver that Paper, which it seemed, put some fear in him, and scared his coming nearer: The Repliant telling them, That he was very sorry to see Sir William Cole, s● fir abused, as to wrong himself upon the information of a poor simple Women, in harbouring so base and treacherous a thought of the Repliant, he having so many good fellows at that time about him, to witness his usage: The Lieutenant Colonel telling the Repliant, That Sir William Cole needed not to have made any such use of that Paper; for before they left their Garrison, he had told Sir William Cole, that he had heard her Brother Richard Edwards to have spoken the like; whereupon this Repliant took a Copy of this Paper, attested under the hands of the Lieutenant Colonel, and Captain Cathcart, returning the principal with them to the Respondent; and withal, sent the Soldier Richard Edwards along with them, for the Respondents better satisfaction: As likewise, the Repliant sent his Minister, Master John Long, to inform and satisfy the Respondent of the Repliants sickness, and unability, to go to the Respondent; and the great necessity there was, that the Respondent and the Repliant, should speak together, since they were so near, for ordering, and concluding the course they meant to take for marching with that party, the Respondent and his men, being but strangers in that Province, were to be guided by the Repliants party, the Minister having Commission from the Repliant, to make offer to the Respondent for his safe conduct; if his sear still continued, that the Repliants Wise and Children should be sent as pledges to the Respondents party; whereupon, this motion of the Ministers, the Respondent was pleased to venture himself with a many of his Officers, who (the Repliant dare say) were both kindly, and courteously received, by the Repliant and his Wife, though he ill deserved it; howsoever, for the service sake, the Repliant thought sit to strain himself, and upon their meetings, the Rupliant gave Orders to his Officers, both Horse and Foot, what party they should draw out, and what course they should take, being joined with the Respondents party; which course, God blessed with success, as the Respondents expectation, and the Repliants undertake were, both well answered, the party returning within two days, with a Prey of near 2000 Cows, and very near so many Sheep, besides abundance of Plundering, which the Respondents Soldiers knew well how to go about, though the main thing the Repliant most desired, they came short off, the rogues not daring to face or fight such a great party; The Repliants small handful having many times made greater execution upon the Rebels, than was performed in that march; upon their return, the Respondent made not such ceremony as formerly, in taking up his Quarters at the Repliants Castle, where be and some of his Officers were better entertained, than his thankfulness by his expressions hath deserved, though it was not so good as the Repliant could have wished: Howsoever, the next morning, the Resoondent sent betimes for several of his Officers to his Chamber, where they being together, sent for the Repliant, to desire him to speak with them; who coming amongst them, the Respondent told the Repliant, that his desire to speak with him, was, That he would join with him and his Officers, in the dividing, and distributing of the Prey, to which motion, the Repliant answered the Respondent, That it having pleased God so to bless them in this march, that he hoped the Respondent would not be so long a stranger hereafter; and as for the Prey he well remembered the words of his Letter, which was the encouragement the Respondent had, that he should be his own Carver for the Cows, which he meant to make good, desiring him to take all if he pleased; but if there were any wearied Cows, or what was not like to drive much farther, that rather than the Rebels should dog them, and get those wearied Beasts, he might leave what he pleased of such kind of Cattle in the Repliants Garrison, which the Respondents Officers held too much courtesy, and would fain have pressed the Repliant, and his Officers, to have joined with them in a dividend, which by no means the Repliant would do: Hereupon, the Respondent and his Officers, thought fit, to leave in the Repliants Garrison, near that number of a hundred and fifty of those, weak Cows, they carrying and driving, with their own party, near one thousand and seven hundred Cows more, besides a many Horses and Mares, loaded with plunder.  
And whereas the Respondent most uncivilly, and clownnishly, doth mention, that he bestowed upon this Repliants good Lady, a thousand Sheep; which gift of his (if it be fit to be called his gift) was a number of poor Sheep, which his party had left uneaten, and could not drive with them, they having killed abundance for their skins, to carry with them, besides what they eat: As also, he mentioneth his gift to some Gentlemen, the Repliants Ladies Kinsmen, and to his Officers, alleging, they went with the Respondent in a friendly manner, as not having relation to any Charge under the Repliants Command; whereas these two Gentlemen, Lieutenant Vaughan, and Coronet Sidney, being Cousin Germane to the Repliants Wife, did mock and jeer, when they heard the Respondent (having the whole Prey, bestowed upon him and his party) to name, three Cows for one of them, and two Cows for another, which they valued not so much, as two groats. And thus doth the simple old man, think to abuse Gentlemen.  
Now let any man judge, what censure this Respondent deserveth for his false, and malicious relation of this passage; who being upon his parting that morning from the Repliants Castle, it having pleased God amongst the rest of his blessings, to send this Repliant a young son some weeks before that time, whom he thought fit to christian, before the good Company parted; where the Respondent amongst other Gentlemen, were witnesses to that charitable Act, assuring him, it was none of the Repliants meaning, ever to invite the Respondent as a Godfather, though at that time in civility, being in the Repliants own House, he was named to stand as a Cipher, for another man, which is confessed was more honour, than the Respondent deserved in his own person, little thinking he would have made this use of it, in bragging, as if he had been invited to that purpose, whereas his invitation, and the manner of it, appears by the Repliants Letter.  
By this true relation, let any man judge, of what unworthy disposition this Respondent is, and how unfit to get credit, in whatsoever he says; whose heart is wholly set upon greid and covetousness, which is not unknown to such as are acquainted with his humour, and condition. As to this Repliants civilties, and merit of better thanks, then to have himself and his Regiment exclaimed against, where the Repliants tongue may get any credit: This Repliant hopeth, that for all the Respondents endeavours to traduce him, his tongue shall still get credit, and rather more than less, in making discoveries to the Parliament, of those, which seemingly pretend to do great Services for the State, whilst they only serve themselves with pay and pillage, so long as they can make means to deceive the Parliament, and to waste the Publiques means, and to cast Aspersions upon such, who are about to discover their double-dealing, while as apparently they play on both sides, to serve their own turn: Of which number, I pray God the Respondent may prove none, if his power were answerable to his mind.  
And this Repliant would be glad to know those Neighbours of his, which are of such quality and account with the Respondent, which will affirm such falsities and untruths, as to charge this Repliant with loving contentions in the time of Peace, or War; or that this Repliant ever laboured to oppress, or injure, any man in that Province where he lived, or elsewhere: But if to defend a man's self against violence, and oppressions, strong confederacies, and conspiracies to ruin him, and his Estate, be accounted so, than this Repliant must confess the action: For the truth is, That this Repliant being a stranger born, and living amongst men, that partly for that reason, could not endure his Neighbourhood, and acquaintance; And therefore, endeavouring by all means possible to weary and ruin him out of his Estate, and to blemish him in his good name and reputation; did so multiply suits and vexations against him, and made such protences and encroachments upon his Lands, as that he was enforced to defend himself against them, and because he would not be so tame as to lay down the Buc lers, and to yield that which was his own, to every man's desires and demands of what they would have had from him, without right or reason; and for that it hath been his good hap ever more yet to tree and acquit himself from the fury and fierce prosecution of his adversaries; which have not been of the meanest rank and condition and to support his credit and estate, by protection of the Law against all opposition whatsoever, if this hath been any miscarriage in him towards his neighbours or any others, he might confess the Respondent and his worthies may have therefore cause to complain of him: But that he hath willingly injuried or done wrong to any man, he utterly denieth, and shall be always ready to answer the particular complaints of any persons grieved by him whatsoever; And therefore hopeth that by such general accusations as these, he shall not be concluded guilty in the opinion of those before whom he now standeth in Judgement, who well knoweth it be the usual road wherein such detractors do commonly walk the better to obscure their deceits and frauds, intended for the ruin of those they would thus destroy.  
And since the Respondant proceedeth yet further for to arraine this Replyants' exceptions concerning Sir Robert Hannay and others, then prisoners by the Rebels, he doth acknowledge both the receipt of that letter and his answer returned unto it, and shall give this account thereof: That this Replyant having then near twenty four prisoners in his Castle, many of them of the Chief and Prime Rebels in those parts, divers of them the most activest and dangerous men, of the O Roirks who claimed to be Lords of that Country, the Replyant endeavouring what he could to suppress the rebellion there, in hopes that aid or relief should have come to his assistance, as was daily promised him by the then Lord Precedent of Connaught, thinking till than those prisoners would have been a Curb to the rest of the Country; but observing at last the desperateness of the Rebels resolutions, after their taking in of Sligoe, and murdering of so many British souls there, and this Replyant hopeless of any relief, well understanding that to let these men lose again upon any conditions whatsoever, would prove fatal and destructive to this Repliant, and all the rest of the British then under his care and charge; and having made such a protestation to himself, as is mentioned in his Letter, which he hath inviolably kept and observed unto this day; and the Replyant doth utterly deny that most malicious, wicked, and devilish invention of the Respondent, alleging that in presence of the Messenger, who brought him Sir Robert Hannayes letter, that the Replyant should then in a most provoking and unchristian like manner hang up the said Colonel O Roerkes Brother, and that thereupon the Respondant most falsely allegeth that the Rebels, in a revengeful manner, did murder ten or eleven Protestants, whereof two were Godly Ministers. Whereas the Replyant did not hang a prisoner of his in many days after; until such time as the said Colonel Owen O Roerke, with divers regiments from other Counties fell into the Replyants' Garrison with near two thousand men, and burnt up his Town and all about it close to the Castle walls, after which Act the Replyant held it time to dispatch his prisoners by hanging of them, which was their entertainment after that service done by their friends, this Replyant hoping that it was no disservice, but rather a piece of good service to rid so many of that viperous brood of idolatrous Rebels out of the way upon all occasions, for the poison will remain until the beast be killed, and he hopeth that herein he shall not undergo the Censure of being uncharitable, amongst those that understand and tender the welfare and safety of these three Kingdoms, it being rather an Act of folly and indiscretion, than of pity and charity, not timely to remove such blocks out of the way, against which otherwise himself and all he commanded must be sure not only to stumble, but to fall; and this Repliant is confident that the said Sir Robert Hannay himself nor his wife and children will complain of this as any injury done unto them, knowing the condition and estate of the Repliant, who hearty wished well unto them, so fare as it might stand with the safety of him and his, so that nothing appeareth but malice in this relation; it being a thing that nothing concerned the Respondant to have taken into his mouth.  
And it seemeth strange to this Repliant, that the Respondant should so bitterly mention the Repliants evil dispositions, which in former times he hath held in better esteem: And how this Respondent should come to understand more of this Repliants own business than himself, and that his Lieutenant and Officers have been forced to forsake their Garrison, by reason of the Repliants beating of them, which is more (as the Repliant believes) than the Respondant durst allege in the presence of any of the said Officers, though it is possible the Respondant hath been endeavouring to seduce and draw away the said Officers for the destruction of that Garrison, as he did formerly the Soldiers; and this Repliant craveth that favour to tell the Respondant without ostentation, That he is not to learn from him how to carry himself in his commands towards his Officers and Soldiers, having never as yet been chaste by any of them, as the Repliant is informed, the Respondant hath been by his, which was held no great matter for others his neighbours to do while as the Respondant was of a younger and abler years to defend himself, though his courage was not observed to be then as now, which draws these unexpected preferments upon the Respondant, and makes him far so much better than other, who have been thought to have deserved informer times as well, if not better, than the Respondant.  
And seeing the Respondant cannot yet hid the fire he had so long kept close in the straw, the venom and malice is apparently in his heart, he endeavoureth yet further to meddle in that, in which he hath nothing to do, and to calumniate this Repliant in a matter he understands not, concerning the Government of ; and represents this Repliant, as a Petitioner for that employment, which is but his own fancy, purposely moved by him and his Confederates (if he may) to forestale all recommendations, which have or might be given of this Repliant for any command whatsoever amongst them. Lest the Repliant should be able to discover the rest of their intended juggle: Nay by his good will he would not that the Repliant should be Governor of his own family, a strange prosecution of a man's good name and parts, that would make him unworthy of remembrance, and of a being in the world: But this Repliant conceiveth that this proceedeth from an opinion, which the Respondant holdeth with a Gentleman of a deeper reach than his own, who lately declared his exceptions to this Repliants being made Governor of Sligo, because he was of the Scottish Nation; which the Repliant hopes shall ever be found more faithful to the King and Parliament, than any that have Irish blood in them; the Repliant being long incorporated with the English, both by marriage and otherwise, always hating and abhorring national difference betwixt these two Kingdoms, yet hath this Repliant never sought this Government by himself, nor any other employment, of which the Parliament shall not think him worthy; but to do them service, this Repliant shall think no hazard, or other undertake whatsoever too much or too hard, wherein he may serve and obey their commands, in the like kind; and thus it doth appear that the Respondants greatest aim is to stop (if he can) the Parliaments favour to this Repliants preferment in any thing whatsoever, which hath caused his pen by Generals to let fall those manifold untruths.  
And surely, if this Repliant had been informer times so foul, criminous, and unneighbourly, as the Respondent and his accomplices hath laboured with their scandalous tongue and pen, to make him appear, the late Earl of Strafford, and the late Lord Viscount Rannellagh, and then Lord Precedent of the Province of Conaught, this Repliants mortal enemies, and who had then, both the means and power in their hands, to have discovered and punished this Repliant to the outmost, and who put forth all their strength, to have crushed, and undone him, if they could, must in all this time, assuredly have brought to light, the particulars of the Repliants misdemeanours, with which, the Respondent maketh so great a noise, which is a mere sound, and nothing else: And this Repliant faith, That until he found the Respondents intentions, so maliciously declared, in those his answers towards him, he never apprehended, That the Respondent intended any complaint against him, as having no cause; And it had been strange, That this Repliant should have desired (as is most untruly suggested) a reconciliation, with one whom he never offended, and who had been many times solicited by divers Gentlemen of worth, both in Scotland, and since he came into England for a reconciliation with the Repliant, as is well known to these several Gentlemen still in Town, much wondering how the seared conscience of the Respondent, can serve him to allege such notorious known untruths: But this his assertion, That the Repliant should desire the Respondent to have concealed that which was never thought or acted, is so palpable gross, and imaginary; that in itself, it appears to any impartial Reader but mere recrimination, which had never been heard off, if not occasioned by this Repliants Charge put in against him, for his several misdemeanours, which this Repliant professeth, was not done out of any hurt intended to his person, but in zeal to the Public safety; and the desires he hath, and ever shall have to serve this Cause and Commonwealth, and to the discovery whereof, he finds himself more particularly obliged by the late solemn League and Covenant.  
And as touching the Respondents comparison, and likening of this Repliant unto Sir George Pawlet, mentioned in his Answer, being a man dead many years ago; which argueth much base bitterness, to proceed from the mouth or pen of one in the Respondents years: So as comparisons are odious in themselves, and that it is both uncharitable and unworthily done, to knock at a dead man's grave, who in his life time, was esteemed a man of eminency and worth, and of another kind of degree and quality, than the Respondent; who dares thus kick at him, being dead? which showeth more weakness, malice, and spleen, than otherwise could have been imagined in the man called Sir William Cole; so much blazed thorough the City for his Hypocritical goodness, hoping after this, whosoever shall read this passage, in his famous vindicating History, will alter their opinion of the man hereafter; and because it hath received a satisfactory Answer herein before, this Repliant will pass it by, and impute it, to the infirmity of his doting days, or as misled to it, by other like minded, that dare not appear in it themselves.  
And as to that his impudent, and shameful close of all his malicious invectives, which he terms pertinent instances, and reasons, for to induce the Parliament, not to put the Government of London-Derry upon this Repliant; wherein he pleaseth himself, to term those certain informations given in against Colonel Mervin, the Major of London-Derry, and the rest to be aspersions, and invented, and contrived by this Repliant and his instruments, of purpose to make them detestable to the Parliament. This Repliant faith, That forasmuch as all the same matter, and much more, and worse, then hath yet been alleged against them, is well known, and manifest unto the Honourable Committee of both Kingdoms, to be proved under their own hand writings, and further, to be attested against them upon all occasions this Repliant will be further silent in it, and will not weary out your patience with making any further reply unto it; But all that hath gone before, doth humbly pray you to observe, that the Respondent upon the matter hath confessed all the Charges given in against him by this Repliant, and have made no manner of defence (under correction) that doth in the least clear him of the crimes and misdemeanours laid unto his charge. That he hath through his whole Answer, infinitely abused, and traduced, this Repliant, with unsufferable scandals and reproaches, the most of them couched under generals, which imply nothing but abuses; some of them also, being matters concerning his own personal behaviour in the Government of his own Family and Commands; some concerning his Neighbourhood, and in the managing of his own Estate, and in nothing that concerns the Public; nor in any thing that hath relation to the damage or detriment of the Commonwealth, in case they had been true, as they are most notoriously false: And therefore this Repliant humbly craveth, repair against him, for these intolerable wrongs and injuries done him, in these his relations; it being (under favour) against the common course and practise of inferior Judicatories, That an offender once accused, and charged with any wrong done to the Commonwealth, should be admitted to recriminate any thing in his Answer against the prosecutor, until he hath first purged himself of things, whereof he stands accused, much less to Print and Publish the same by way of Anticipation of Justice, while as the matter dependeth unheard, by the Honourable House of Commons.  
And he humbly prayeth, it may be remembered, though one Micaiah suffered for prophesying the truth against some hundreds of the Court Parasites of the King of Israel: Yet when he was smote between the Joints of his Harness, in Ramoth Gilead, that he died, The Prophet was found to have told the truth; albeit, it was too late for the King to repent him of his unbelief.   

A Copy of the Lord Lieutenant and Council of Ireland; Their Letter procured by Sir William Cole, against the Garrison at Castle-Hammilton, for breaking of the CESSATION.  
AFter our hearty commendations, We the Lord Lieutenant, and Council, have lately understood by Letters from Sir William Cole, Knight. The Soldiers Garrisoned at Castle-Hammilton in Conaught, came out of that Province, and went to the Largin in the Province of Ulster, and there in hostile manner, preyed, and took away on the first of February, four or five hundred Cows in the day time from Torilagh oge mac Gawran, and other protected by Sir William Cole, upon composition made by them, to contribute towards the support of the Regiment, commanded by the said Sir William, That by that spoil so committed on these men, the Garrison of Iniskillin, is exceedingly injured, and are like to suffer much prejudice: That albeit, he sent his Lieutenant Colonel with his Letters, to require restitution of these Cattle to the owners, from you the Lieutenant of Sir Frederick Hammiltons' Company, to whom he also sent the Letters of this Board, of the 15. of December, directed to him, enabling him to agree with such of the Natives, as would come under protection, for contribution to be paid towards support of the said Garrison of Iniskillin, yet no restitution is made.  
Upon consideration, whereof at this Board, We have just reason to be highly displeased, not only in that we find such want of due and friendly correspondence, rendered by that Garrison of Castle-Hammilton, to the said Garrison of Iniskillin, as in wisdom and reason, aught to be expected: But also in that, we find that unadvisedness, accomompanied with so high and manifest contempt against His Majesty's Autheritie, entrusted with this Board: And therefore in favour of you, before we proceed any other way, to punish that contempt. We think fit hereby, to admonish you, and require you, immediately upon sight hereof, to cause such due restitution, and satisfaction to be made herein, as Sir William Cole may have no further cause of complaint: And we do let you know. That we are so sensible, not only of this unfriendlinesse, happened between His Majesties own Garrisons, who ought to be equally careful of each other; but also of the contempt therein offered to the Honour and Dignity of this Board: As if due and present restitution be not made immediately: We will take such other course herein, as may not only be penal to the contemners, but also exemplary for others, to take warning by. And so we bid you farewell.  
From His Majesty's Castle of Dublin, 26. of February, 1643. R. Bolton, Canc la Dublyn. Your Loving Friends 

John Borlasse.  
Ormonds.  
Cham Lambard.  
Ja. Ware.  
Fr. Willouchby.  
Edw. Brabaron.  
Geo. Wentworth.     

The Copy of Sir William Coles Letter, which he sent in the absence of Sir Frederick Hamilton, to his Castle and Garrison; with the Copy of an old Petition, in the name of Master Robert Park, than Prisoner at Mannor-Hammilton Castle; by which Petition, and the Lords Justices and Council, their Order thereupon may appear, how little Warrant or Reason, Sir William Cole had to meddle in that business, which he forbore, till after the Cessation was concluded; and that he knew Sir Frederick to be gone with a Resolution not to submit to that dishonourable Cessation.  
To his Honourable Neighbour, Sir Frederick Hamilton Knight, or in his absence, to the chief Officer, Commanding his Company in Mannor-Hammilton Castle.  
SIR,  
BY the enclosed, which is the Copy of Master Parks Petition, and the Order of the Lords Justices and Council, including the Lord Marquess of Ormond, Lord Lieutenant General of His Majesty's Army. You may perceive, that Master Park, with such matters as are to be objected against him, was to be left at the Garrison at Ballishanny in the County of Dunnegall, to be thence sent with the next Convoy to London-Derry, and so from thence to Dublin, to be there proceeded with, as shall be fit.  
And seeing the poor Gentleman is restrained, and not sent accordingly; lest you cannot spare a Guard of yours to convoy him, not yet Ballishanny in this busy time of Harvest to send for him: I have now sent the Bearer Charles Cokis my Ensign, Sergeant Graham, and forty Musketeers for him; to whose hands, I desire he may be now delivered, with the matters to be objected against him, to be guarded, and safely conveyed to the Garrison of Ballishanny, and thence to Derry, and so to Dublin, as by the said Order is required: Whereunto I doubt not, but you will give all due Obedience. Which leaving to your consideration, I commit you, and us all, to the protection and direction of the Almighty, I will rest,  
Your loving friend, William Cole. Iniskillin, 18. of Septemb. 1643.   

The humble Petition of Robert Park Equire. To the Right Honourable the Lord's Justices.  
HUmbly showing, That your Petitioner being an English man, a constant Professor of the Religion established in the Church of England, and from the beginning of the present troubles zealously affected to the service of his Majesty and the State of this Kingdom, was in July last called upon by Sir Frederick Hamilton Knight, to go with him to his Majesty's service, which the Petitioner most willingly assented unto; and having with his Soldiers and Servants given the best assistance for the effecting of the said service, the said Sir Frederick Hamilton entreated your Petitioner and his men for his safer Convoy, to go with him to Mannor-Hamilton, which your Petitioner did, thinking to return the next day to his Castle; but ever since the said Sir Frederick hath kept your Petitioner close Prisoner, not permitting him to go to Divine service, or to hear the Word of God for the comfort of his soul, neither will yield any reason to the Petitioner nor to any other for his detaining.  
In tender consideration whereof, and forasmuch as your Petitioner obtained former directions from the Honourable Lords Justices and Council to the said Sir Frederick to send the Petitioner to the Lord Precedent of Conaught to be convoyed hither, to answer what could be alleged against him. May it therefore please your Honours once more by your Letters or otherwise, as in your grave wisdoms you shall think fit, to send directions to the said Sir Frederick for the Petitioners enlargement, upon such sufficient Bail as your Honours shall think fit to take for his appearance, to answer to what Objections shall be laid to his charge.  
And he shall pray, etc.   

25. of May 1643.  
BY Order of this Board of the 24. of January last, we required Sir Frederick Hamilton to cause the Petitioner with such matters as are objected against him, to be delivered to the Lord Precedent of Conaught, to be sent with the then next Convoy to the City of Dublin, to be here proceeded with as shall be fit. Which Order it seems was not convoyed to the said Sir Frederick. And now we require the said Sir Frederick to cause the Petitioner with such matters as are to be objected against him, to be left at the Garrison of Bellishanny in the County of Dunnegall, to be thence sent with the next Convoy to , and from thence hither to be here proceeded with as shall be fit.  
Copia vera. Signed, John Borl●sse. Hen. Titchborne. Ormond. Roscomen. Ad. Loftus. Will. Parsons. Gerard Lowther. J●. Temple.   

The Copy of Sir Frederick Hammiltons' Letter to the Lords Justices and Council of Ireland, upon the receipt of this Petition and Order thereupon, together with the Copy of a Letter written by the Prisoner Master Park to his Father in Law Sir Edward Povy, then in Dublin, who procured the said Order, as also the Copy of a Letter from the Lord Taaffe that Arch-rebel and wicked Incendiary.  
Right Honourable,  
I Received your Lordship's Order the sixth of July, dated the 25. of May, grounded upon a scandalous and seditious Petition, presented in the name of Robert Park Equire, now my Prisoner. That he being an English man, a constant Professor of the established Religion, and zealously affected to the service of his Majesty, should have been by me surprised and imprisoned without any warrant or reason; the aspersion of this scandal, as it hath moved your Lordships to conceive an Order in the Prisoner's behalf, so it may make me most odious to all men that shall give credit to the said scandalous Petition; and to be held most unworthy of the manifold mercies and favours God hath wonderfully showed me and mine, near this two years past, without any aid or relief, if I prove not able to justify my proceedings against that man, to be not only loyal and conscientious in this distressed desperate condition I have long lived in, but also thanks worthy from your Lordship's being better informed, his great zeal consisting in such service as did most tend to the utter ruin and subversion of us, his Majesty's loyal Subjects, and furtherance of the Rebels, if their treacherous plots by daily correspondance, and circumstances had not been prevented; Which was likely shortly to have drawn utter destruction upon me, mine, and all others, his Majesties distressed British Subjects, who hath this long sheltered themselves within my Castle, from the butcherous cruelty of the bloody Rebels, at last I was constrained, for all our safeties, observing the danger we were in, upon intelligence from his own Servants and Soldiers, to cease upon his person and Castle, as well for preventing all our destructions (which much consisted therein) as that he should be liable hereafter to answer his disloyal and treasonable carriages, which appeareth by the depositions of divers witnesses his own Servants and others taken upon oath; which your Lordships taking into consideration and reserving the care of indifference to me, by whom his disloyalty and trading with the Rebels shall be made appear, if ever it please God to send us relief, that we may both be indifferently brought to the bar of Justice, In the mean time depending upon his Divine providence and appointed time, who can ease me of this and other burdens, which necessity in this miserable extremity hath laid upon my shoulders, entreating your Lordships to consider my miserable and weak estate, not 300. strong to maintain this Castle and Garrison, living in the bozom of the Rebels betwixt two Provinces, and what danger it were for me with such a Prisoner and the evidence against him to be ventured with a small party of my handful, for the conveying of him to the Garrison of Ballishannay being a dangerous long way in another Province, wherein almost two year's time the strength of the King and Parliaments whole forces that are in this Kingdom, hath held it a difficulty to adventure to comfort and relieve this Castle and Garrison. So that your Lordships may judge of my condition, who am daily threatened by Owen Roerke O Neale, and most of the rest of the Ulster Rebels, who are driven into this County and Province, and are too near my Neighbours at this instant, all of us apprehending much danger daily, and not a little troubled to see means made that I shall receive such Orders in favours of such as adhered to the Rebels, and can receive no encouragement by the like means, when we may expect comfort or relief, others our nearest Neighbours receiving supplies from you, as is mentioned in my last Letters to your Lordships of the 7. of April last, much fearing the desperateness of my present estate, hath encouraged hard hearted and ill natured Neighbours to traduce me with more seditious informations as Parckes Petition doth mention. But when God shall provide for my enlargement, I doubt not to justify myself and my zealous endeavours to their greater shame, who are more inclining to envy than pity towards my distressed condition; Thus humbly craving pardon that I cannot part with my Prisoner as your Lordship's Order doth require, until God provides otherwise for us all, till which time and ever I rest,  
Your Lordship's humblest servant, Fred. Hamilton. Castle Hamilton 6. July 1643.   

A Copy of Master Parcks' Letter to his Father in Law.  
Worthy Sir,  
IT hath not been my happiness since the beginning of these troubles, to have heard from you, the first week only I received a Letter, until this morning, it pleased Sir Frederick Hamilton to show me a Letter of yours with a Petition therein closed, in my name, directed to the Lords Justices; mentioning that I being an English man, and a constant Professor of the Religion established in the Church of England, was by him kept close Prisoner without yielding any reason; wherein he findeth himself much grieved, as unfit aspersions to be cast upon him; for either of these reasons mentioned in the Petition, I cannot say that I found them any ways or motives that induced him to detain me as Prisoner, and would have been glad they had been omitted in the Petition, and for the rest of the Petition, That evening I came to his Castle having taken me the night before out of my Castle for disobeying to come to him upon a Warrant he had from the Lords Justices to command me and other of that County, the Copy whereof he had sent me the night before by a party with his Lieutenant Lesly, and having carried me along with him to the burning of Sligo, at his return to his Castle, after supper I was that night by him committed and had liberty for three Sabbaoth days together to hear Sermons, and afterwards I was committed close Prisoner upon divers informations and depositions against me, charging me with several unbeseeming carriages during these troubles, which is the very truth of these particulars; I have not much more to write, but that God hath undoubtedly, in his special providence, wonderfully preserved and blest this handful of men here in a more than ordinary manner, and let Col. Hamilton use me as he pleaseth, I am bound to say the truth of him, that such service as he hath done here, even with a very few men and with so small loss of them, is not to be parallelled (as I verily believe) in any Kingdom, but it is God's do and is most miraculous in all our eyes, the whole relation whereof would take up a volume to be written.  
Although the absence of me from my wife and yourself hath bred me much discontent, yet I cannot but rejoice that in my absence your are not forgetful of me, My unfeigned duty attend you, my Mother, and all yours, and my true constant affection to my poor Wife; and so the King of Heaven keep you and us all in his protection.  
Your faithful Servant and Son in Law Ro. Park. Castle Hamilton, 6. July 1643.   

A Copy of the Lord Taaffes Letter, after I had hanged and killed, divers of his Kindred, and Friends, who had rob me, and my Tenants, and had beleaguered me divers times in my Castle.  
SIR,  
I Came some two nights ago into this Country, where I shall not remain longer than Saturday next, being engaged to be at Dublin, on the Tuesday following, where (if I may do you any service) I shall faithfully perform your Commands: I believe Sir, the most welcome news I can give you a relation off, is the good success and prosperity of His Majesty, which with confidence, I give you an assurance off, having of late, infinitely prevailed against his most malicious, and disloyal enemies, in that high degree; as I am confident, they will very suddenly submit, and render themselves to his most merciful protection.  
Sir, I understand that most of the Irish of this Nation, pretend the having of a Commission from our King, to countenance their actions, which is a most false surmise, he being so far from encouraging them in their proceed, as he deemed them Rebellious, and solely intended to the destruction of the English Nation, and Government. There is since my coming into this Country, an Army of theirs, came into the County of Rescommen, what their number is, I cannot advertise you, but their intention is to take all the Garrisons in that County, and to destroy such of the King's Army, as reside there; the prevention whereof, must be laboured by all such as hath, either power or authority. Sir, a great number of my Tenants complain unto me, how you have destroyed them, which I am confident they deserved, being erroneously blinded by such, as for their own particular interest, would destroy the General: I have laboured in some measure to reform some, and seeing I cannot reside here, I must refer them to your protection, being confident, that for the future, they will neither misbehave themselves, nor labour to hinder any of your designs.  
Sir, I herewith send you a Petition of Master Parcks, with the Lords Justices and Counsels Order thereupon: And though my Lord Precedent be not in the Province to receive him, I will under take (if you will trust him to my care) to convey him safe to Dublin, with what examinations of his you send: I shall expect to receive your Commands, and in the interim remain,  
Your humble servant Taaffe. Bellimote, the 12. of July, 1643.   

A Copy of the several Depositions of Witnesses, taken by Sir Frederick Hamilton Knight, and Colonel, concerning Master Robert Park, and his Brother William Park, their carriage since the beginning of this Rebellion.  
THomas powel Mason, being duly sworn, deposeth, that some three or four days after the news came to the Castle of Dromahear, that the Rebels had burned the Iron-works, called the Garrison, Master William Park living at that time in the said Castle of Dromahear, did upon the news, transport most of the Goods he had within that Castle, and delivered them a keeping, to the Friars, then dwelling at Crimley, not half a mile from the said Castle of Dromahear: At which time, the Deponant heard Owen O Roirk, desire Walter Harrison of Crimley, to speak to William Park, that he would leave him the said Owen O Roirk in the possession of the said Castle, upon condition, That if came peace, the said Castle should be surrendered unto the said William; and if it continued wars, That as the said Owen O Roirk said, was more more kindly unto him, then to any other of his name: To which motion, William Park in the Deponants hearing, answered, He had already disposed of the Charge of that Castle, to one Teage oge mac Quin, who to the Deponants knowledge was, and is, for any thing the Deponant knoweth, the chief servant and follower of Owen O Roirk.  
And further, this Deponant saith, That William Park having delivered in his Goods to the Friars, locked in the Castle Gates of Dromahear, not leaving one man in it; and that very day transported himself and his Wife, to his Brother Robert Parcks' Castle at the Newtown; From whence the said William Park returned to the said Castle of Dromahear the next morning, and with a Ladder, went over the Band-Walls, and stayed some short time within the Castle, returning by the said Ladder as he went, leaving the Castle without men, and the Gate barred in the inner side, and so returns back to his Brother at the Newtown; the next night one Hugh O Roirk, Grandchild to Mac Naw, with many Rogues in his Company, possessed himself of Dromahear Castle, who the next morning, was dispossessed by Owen O Roirk, who alleged to the Deponant, and others living there at that time, that the Keys of the Castle Gate was delivered him by William Park.  
This Deponant further saith, That he the Deponant remained at Dromahear, near to that Castle, almost five weeks after Owen O Roirk had possessed himself thereof, his Soldiers daily robbing him, and some few British more, whose lives were daily threatened, till at last, the Deponant was forced to beg leave to be gone; which was granted him upon condition, that he should neither go to Mannor-Hammilton, nor to the Boyl, but to Master Robert Parcks of the Newtown; the said Owen O Roirk seizing upon all the Deponants Cows that were left him, only allowing him one Cow for the relief of his children: the Deponant being come to Newtown, acquainted Master Park with the manner of his parting with Owen O Roirk; and within a week after, this Deponant procured Master Parcks Letter to Owen O Roirk, in favour of the Deponant, That the said Owen then called Colonel O Roirk, would grant this Deponant two more of his own Beefs, for the maintenance of the Deponant, his Wife, and Children, at Master Parcks' Castle: Upon which Letter of Master Robert Parcks, the two Beefs were delivered, and the Deponant returned with a courteous kind answer to Master Parcks' Letter: And further saith, That he hath many times heard Owen O Roirks Soldiers brag, that the Newtown they held it their own, for they could have it at their pleasure, having got Mannor-Hammilton Castle.  
This Deponant being further questioned, what Irish servants Master Robert Park kept in his Castle, and how many of them went to Church; to this he deposeth, he kept divers Irish servants, but he knew none of them that went to Church. Also Owen mac o Bryan being questioned, if he heard of a quarrel betwixt Loghlan o Diggennan, Master Parcks' footman, and one Englishman, called Roger Guise; The Deponant to this saith, He was by when the quarrel began, and helped to part them, the quarrel beginning upon a report, that Sir Frederick Hamilton had killed Colonel Owen o Roirk, whilst he beat his Regiment being encamped about Mannor-Hammilton: The said Guise wishing a thousand more of the like kind were hanged or killed, whereunto the said Loghlan replied, in the Deponants and others hearing. That it were better, that the said Guise, and a thousand the like of him were hanged, then that the said Owen o Roirk should be killed in that manner by Sir Frederick Hamilton; and with these words, the said Loghlan in the Deponants sight, and others, struck the said Roger Guise over the mouth with his first, the Deponant and others parting them; the said Guise with divers others of the English in the Castle, much discontented at the said Loghlans boldness, complained to Master Park of what had passed, but no reparation was made the said Guise, neither was there any punishment inflicted upon the said Loghlan.  
The Deponant being further asked, if he knew one Mullmory o Digg●nnan, or if he had heard of any words that had passed between Sergeant Heath, and the said Mullmory, concerning Sir Frederick Hamilton; if he was by, when the words were spoken, or if he heard what words they were: To this the Deponant answereth, That Mullmory o Diggennan, he knoweth to be Master Parcks' Husbandman, and father to the said Loghlan o Diggennan; and did hear that Sergeant Heath being one day in the Forge, within Master Parcks Bawn, Mullmory o Diggennan brought into the said Forge some Plow-Irons; which Sergeant Heath perceiving, was said to have told the said Mullmory, it was a good sight to see him provide for ploughing, or words to this purpose; to the which speech of Sergeant Heaths, Mullmory was said to reply; it was to no purpose for any man in this Country, to Plough or Sow, until Sir Frederick Hamilton were cut off: These words the Dep●nant did not hear spoken by Mullmory himself, but did hear it from Sergeant Heath, to whom it was spoken, and heard divers others talking of it within the Castle, admiring that fellow should be suffered to live: And further, this Deponant saith, That many Irish were daily coming and going to Master Parcks' Castle, and Ploughing near about it, such as the three Brothers, Torilagh, donnel, and another of the o Boylands, with one James o Gallocher, Son in law to the said Mullmory o Diggennan, having been a Soldier to the Arch-rebel, Torilagh mac Caffry o donnel: This o Gallacher going several times from the Newtown Castle, to Sligoe and Dromahear to Mass, and other times would be abroad two or three days, and so return, pretending to have been looking for Mares or Cattle of his Father in laws, and his own; when no good Subject of greater strength than they, durst wander abroad, or had any Cattle left them.   

The Depositions of George Heath Sergeant, taken the 23. July, 1643.  
WHo being duly sworn, deposeth, That about the 24. of February last, Sir Frederick Hamilton hearing that Master Robert Park of Newtown, (whose Sergeant, the Deponant then was) was besieged, or blocked up in his Castle of Newtown, by the Rebels of the County of Sligoe and Letrim; for whose relief, the said Sir Frederick sent his two Lieutenants, Lieutenant Lesly, and Lieutenant Vaughan, with a party of Horse and Foot, with Orders, as the Deponant was told, to view in what Posture the Rebels lay about us, and to endeavour to speak with Master Park, and to bring him and his men off, if he found himself unable with those men, or feared his Provisions; for the making good of that Castle: At the parties coming to us, Lieutenant Lesley found our Castle free, and delivered his Message to Master Park from his Colonel, withal, desiring Master Parcks' answer, which was, That he would not leave his Castle, and that he much feared the party's danger upon their retreat, observing the Fields foul, and the Rebels gathering on every Hill round about us; whereupon Lieutenant Lesly desired Master Park, for the better guard and strengthening of that party, which his Colonel had so ventured for his relief, that therefore he might be supplied with twenty or thirty of his men, he having sufficient besides to guard him in his Castle; which request of Lieutenant Leslies, was altogether denied by Master Park, though it was seconded, and much urged by the Deponant, and most of Master Parcks' Soldiers, who told him, it would be a great shame for them all, to see those men in danger to be destroyed, who had so engaged themselves for his relief: Master Parcks answer was, That he would not spare a man, neither would he do any thing to provoke the Country against himself.  
The Deponant further saith, That shortly after this parting of Lieutenant Lesly, with Master Park, news was brought us by Mullumry O Diggennan, who then served Master Park as his Bailiff, or Husbandman, that he had seen Sir Frederick Hammiltons' party, sore put to it, upon their retreat homewards, having been charged by near six or seven hundred of the Rebels, having encountered them, and fought with them, as they were mid way, betwixt Master Parcks and their Garrison; which news, made the Deponant, and most of Master Parcks' Soldiers much ashamed of themselves, and began to mistrust their own safeties in that Castle.  
Some few days after, this Deponant standing and mourning upon the Castle-Wals of Newtown, did perceive four or five Horsemen riding from toward Sligoe; which Horsemen, the Deponant was told, was Captain Mac Donnaghy, and Colonel Taaffe, riding towards Mannor-Ham●…lton, to meet their Troops, having encamped about that Castle, they sending a Horseman before them, with a compliment (as this Deponant was told) to Master Park, and to ask leave freely to pass by his Castle, as they did to this Deponant, and others of the Soldiers great grief, if they durst have followed this Colonel and Captain, being not above five or six Horsemen in Company.  
W●… f●rther deposeth, That Mannor-Hammilton Castle being besieged by ●…onell Owen O Roirk, and his brother Bryan Ballagh O Roirk, with the assistance of the County of Sligoe; the said Bryan Ballagh had his Cows brought close to the Castle of the Newtown, where they daily and peaceably grazed, with a small guard of three or four herds, during the time the Camp lay about Mannor-Hammilton, not a Soldier daring from Newtown Castle to meddle with a Cow of of them, though they were sometimes in great distress for victuals; this Deponant many times telling Master Park what a shame it was to him, and how he might one day be put to answer it, for suffering the Rebels to graze their Cows so meanly guarded so near his Castle, and so many of His Majesty's Subjects within his Castle in such distress, being ab●… to supply themselves and him both, if under the Deponants care and charge, he would suffer the men to venture for them; but the Deponant could never prevail with Master Park to meddle with a Cow of them. Further the Deponant saith, That one night some of the Soldiers being in great distress for victuals, John Powel and others, ventured with a Rope, to go over the Walls, and that night brought in thirteen Cows from the Rebels; wherewith one Walter Harrison being acquainted, that so many Cows were brought by in two Soldiers, the said Harrison did allege those Cows to belong to his Foster-Father swearing many oaths, that who should meddle with those Cows, he would have their heart's blood, and with this, acquaints Master Park; who no sooner heard of it, but in great anger, threatening, and checking the Soldiers, caused them to turn back all the Cows, not suffering a Soldier to kill a Beast of them: The next night, the same Soldiers being sore pinched with wants, for the relief of their Wives and Children, ventured as the night before, over the Walls, by the help of a Rope, and brought home that night some sheep with them, which they speedily killed the next morning they were challenged by a woman from the Rebels, who complained to Master Park, that his Soldiers had that night brought away some of their Muttons; For the which, Master Park gave her present satisfaction, threatening the Soldiers to stop it in their allowances.  
The Deponant further saith, That near about Candlemas last, he being in Master Parcks' Forge, within the Castle Bawn of Newtown; one morning Mullmory o Diggennan came into the said Forge with some Plough Irons in his hand, to whom this Deponant said, it was a good sight to see the said Mullmory provide for Ploughing; to whom the said Mullmory replied in the presence of Thomas Witticomb, Smith, that he the said Mullmory might provide what he pleased, but that he held it to no purpose, for any man in that Country, to provide either for Ploughing or Harrowing, until Sir Frederick Hamilton were cut off; whereunto the Deponant replied, It were better the said Mullmory, and a thousand, the like of him, were cut off: With which speeches, Master Park was acquainted, who sent for the Smith, Thomas Witticomb, ask if he heard those speeches of Mullmory o Diggennans to Sergeant Heath, which the Smith justified, That he did hear them, this Deponant being present then; yet was not the said Mullmory questioned at all for those speeches, to this Deponants knowledge.  
And further saith, That about the time that Bryan Ballagh o Roirk was encamped about Mannor-Hammilton Castle, this Deponant was informed, That the said Bryan Ballagh had sent a Web of near forty yards of Broad-Cloath, to be Woven by Master Parcks' Weaver William Bryan; upon report, this Deponant went into the Workhouse, where the said Cloth was a working, and meeting with William Bryan, told him, that he would one day be hanged for working of Bryan Ballagh o Roirks Cloth, then in Rebellion; whereunto the Weaver replied, That he did nothing in that, without the leave and orders of his Master.  
And further saith, That the news being brought to Newtown on Good-Friday morning, that Sir Frederick Hammiltons' Soldiers had beaten Owen o Roirks men, and all those who were encamped about Mannor-Hammilton Castle; upon which news, all Bryan Ballaghes Cows, which during the Camp about Mannor-Hammilton had so peaceably grazed about Newtown Castle, were that morning, all driven away; and a servant of Bryan Ballaghes, sent to the Weaver to demand the Cloth, which at that time was not altogether finished; the Messenger being most impatient (as the Deponant was afterwards told by the Weaver) to attend one hour for finishing of it; which Web of Cloth was delivered to the Messenger by Master Parcks' command, as the Weaver said.  
The Deponant further saith, That shortly after the Camp was broke up, towards the latter end of April last, this Deponant was sent, and one Roger Smith in his Company, with a Letter to Sir Frederick Hamilton, from Master Park; and in our Companies went along, one Loghlan o Diggennan, son to the aforesaid Mullmory o Diggennan; this Deponant acquainting Sir Frederick Hamilton what had passed betwixt the Father and the Deponant; at which time, one Master Huthersall acquainted Sir Frederick, that a Footboy of Master Parcks, had come to him the said Huthersall, who was sitting upon the Hill, looking upon the Lieutenant as he was exercising of the Company; The said Footboy of Master Parcks, telling Master Huthersall, that his Master remembered him kindly to him, and entreated him by all means to write unto him, the true state of Mannor-Hammilton Castle, and in what condition the Soldiers were in; how they were paid, and as they were pleased; and what other news the said Huthersall could inform himself besides, and that this Letter must be delivered to the said Loghlan with all secrecy, not to be known to Sergeant Heath, or Roger Smith, assuring Master Huthersall of his Master's thankfulness: This curiosity of the Footboys, Master Huthersall thought not fit to be concealed from Sir Frederick; upon discovery whereof, Loghlan o Diggennan is apprehended, the Deponant, and Roger Smith, are returned to Master Park without any other Answer to his Letter, but that we should tell Master Park, that his Footboy was taken upon strong presumption, that he was a Spy for the Rebels; and that it was reported, Master Parcks had made his own conditions with them; upon which reports, Sir Frederick was jealous of him, wishing us to tell Master Park, That if he would have Sir Frederick trust to his Loyalty, and had a mind to save his Footman from hanging, that betwixt, and the Friday following, he would send unto Sir Frederick, the Father Mullmory o Diggennan, to answer and justify himself and his son, both of them being Traitors, kept in by the O Roirks, about Master Park (as Sir Frederick was informed) for their intelligence for our destructions. And that if Master Park did not send the said Mullmory as was desired, then would Sir Frederick hold Master Park himself not good Subject afterwards: Which message and information from Sir Frederick, was accordingly delivered by Roger Smith, and the Deponant, to Master Park; who gave no other answer at that time, but seemed to be much vexed, for the leaving of his Footman behind: Saying, he knew not where to find Mullmory; yet the Deponant was informed afterwards, that whilst he and Roger Smith went to sleep, having marched that night, that Master Park sent one Rice Jones privately to Mullmory o Diggennan, who was come to the Castle that morning, to advise the said Mullmory to shift for himself, for he durst not longer keep him Sir Frederick Hamilton having caused to apprehend his son, and sent for himself that morning; and further this Deponant saith not.   

The Depositions of Roger Smith taken ut supra.  
WHo deposeth, That towards the latter end of April last, being sent with Sergeant Heath from Master Robert Park, with a Letter to Sir Frederick Hamilton; Sir Frederick having a little before this, beaten the Rebels of the County of Letrim and Sligoe, which had long encamped about Mannor-Hammilton Castle: during which time Bryan Ballagh O Roirk, and divers others of the Rebels, grazed their Cattle near, within a Musket shot, to Master Parcks' Castle of the Newtown; and upon the Deponants return from Mannor-Hammilton, Master Park asked, if he had brought no answer to his Letter, who said he had none but a Message, That Sir Frederick being informed, that he had made his own conditions with the Rebels, who had promised to spare Master Park, until they had got their will of Sir Frederick Hammiltons' Castle, and that Master Park had promised not any way to interrupt the Rebels, being daily so bold about Master Parcks, as not only to graze their Cattle so near his Gate, but in suffering them to make their daily passage thorough his Land with victuals and other relief for their Camp, whilst they lay five weeks about Mannor-Hammilton Castle, without the interruption of Master Park, or any in his Castle, having at that time near threescore of able men in it, wishing the Deponant, to tell Master Park, that unless he would send him Mullmory O Diggennan (who as Sir Frederick was informed, had been fight against the King's Soldiers) he would hold the said Master Park as a Traitor himself: Which message, this Deponant in presence of Sergeant Heath, delivered to Master Park, he being in Bed, showing a great deal of anger against the Deponant, for leaving of his Footman Loghlan O Diggennan behind him: The Deponant being weary with the night's march, went to sleep, and as he awaked, he was told, that Mullmory O Diggennan was run away; but afterwards, the Deponant heard Rice Jones say, that Master Park had sent him to advise the said Mullmory to shift for himself; shortly after, the Deponant and Serjeant Heath, had delivered their message, that morning they came from Mannor-Hammilton.  
And further deposeth, That he did see a Cow which one Norman a poor Englishman had taken, while as Bryan Ballaghs' Cows grazed near the Newtown Castle, during the Camp about Mannor-Hammilton, and did see Bryan Ballaghes, Herdsman Thomas Carvell, complain to Master Park, giving order to his Bailiff, Mullmory O Diggennan, to make search for the same, who found the Cow killed by the Englishman, Norman and his Wife, whereat, Master Park was very angry: Saying, That was the way to bring trouble enough, and bring the Country upon their backs, wishing Mullmory O Diggennan, to tell Bryan Ballagh, that the Englishman should no more come within his Gates, for meddling with Bryan Ballaghes Cows. And further saith, That the Newtown Castle was daily relieved with Milk from Bryan Ballaghes Bolly, during the Camp about MANNOR-HAMMILTON, the Herds Wife bringing of it freely.   

The Depositions of Dermond O Ferry Harper, taken the 12. of January, 1642.  
WHo deposeth, That upon Friday the 28. of January, 1641. this Deponant coming to the Church of Clanclare within half a mile to Mannor-Hammilton Castle, where he found that night Colonel O Roirk with divers other Colonels and Captains, gathered together, with intention, the next morning to burn off the Town and Garrison of Mannor-Hammilton, with both the Water-Mills there; which accordingly was performed in this Deponants sight, who afterwards got leave of Owen O Roirk, to go back to the Castle of Dromahear, where the said Owen O Roirks Wife, and family lived, living himself with his Brother Bryan Ballagh O Roirk, with five or six hundred more of the Rebels, encamped near unto the Castle of Mannor-Hammilton, where they lay till Friday, the fourth of February following; which day, they were beaten from the Camp, where the said Colonel Owen o Roirk told the Deponant, he escaped narrowly himself, divers of his Regiment being killed, and the rest chased.  
The Deponant further faith, That about the 20. of February following, he this Deponant obtained leave, that he might go visit Master Park at Newtown, whom he had formerly served as his Harper; which granted him, conditionally, that he should stay but one night with Master Park, and that this Deponant should tell Master Park, That Colonel O Roirk, and the rest of their Army, were informed, that Master Park had supplied Sir Frederick Hamilton, with what Powder was spent upon them, the last day they were beaten from their Camp; which if Master Park had done so, it was more than they expected from his hands: For whosoever should lend Arms or Ammunition against them, was to be held, as much an enemy, as those that fought against them.  
And withal, Colonel O Roirk, bid this Deponant tell Master Park, that he with his Brother Bryan Ballagh o Roirk, had been desired by several Letters from the Gentlemen of the County of Sligoe, to join with them in laying a Camp about Master Park and his Castle, at the Newtown, which they both refused, advising the County of Sligoe Gentlemen, rather to join with them in camping about Mannor-Hammilton Castle, who had done them much hurt, Master Park having done them none; and being able to destroy Sir Frederick Hammiltons, Master Park and his, would be easily their own. This Deponant having delivered his message to Master Park, letting him know withal, That he could stay no longer than that night, being engaged by his promise to Colonel O Roirk, to return the next morning; whereupon Master Park wished the Deponant to tell Owen o Roirk, that whosoever informed, that Sir Frederick Hamilton was supplied by him with any Powder, wronged him much, for he was not stored, as to have spared his Father any: And further, the said Park told this Deponant, That though he was desirous to have enjoyed his Company longer, yet since he was engaged by his promise to Colonel O Roirk, to return the next day, he would by no means to have him break his word; Master Park likewise telling the Deponant, That it was reported amongst them, that Colonel O Roirk was likewise killed by Sir Frederick Hamilton, at the breaking up of the Camp, till the Deponant assured him of the contrary; and that he was an eyewitness that day the Town and Garrison of Mannor-Hammilton was burned: Master Park afterward ask this Deponant, what the Country said was the reason for this Rebellion, they alleged the King to have encouraged them to it; which if he did said Master Park, we must all do as the King will have us to do; but until the truth of this appear, I will keep myself quiet, and meddle as little as I can.   

The Deposition of Thomas Jones Clerk, taken the 14. of July, 1642.  
WHo being duly sworn, deposeth, That in June last coming from Newtown to Mannor-Hammilton, Master Robert Park desired the Deponant, to advertise him privately, if at any time he observed Sir Fred. Hamilton displeased towards him; or that the said Sir Frederick had any intention to take away his men from him; or any other matter that the Deponant thought fit to advertise him with privately, showing the Deponant a piece of paper, cut in such a manner, as a man might write by it to his friend, and none could read it, or make sense of what they read, but by the like paper, which Master Park called a mask for a Letter: And shortly after this Deponant being at Mannor-Hammilton, had one of the masks cut in Parchment, and sent from Master Park by Rober Slixton, to the Deponant, which he presently shown to Rice Jones, who told this Deponant, That he the said Rice Jones, was sent by Mascer Robert Park (at such a time, as Sergeant Heath, and Roger Smith, came from Mannor-Hammilton) to give warning to Mullmory o Diggennan to shift for himself, for he could no longer protect him, Sir Fred. Hamilton having sent for him, and committed his Son in law.  
This Deponant further saith, That after the taking in of Sligoe by the Rebels, and the great murders there committed upon the British, the Deponants Son in law, Humphrey Jones, told this Deponant, That he was sent by Master Park in the night time, with two pieces of Plate to Andrew Crean, to a place called the Armagh, where he borrowed from the said Andrew, for the use of Master Park, eight pounds sterlin. The said Andrew Creans two sons, John and William o Crean, being at that time in open Rebellion.   

The Depositions of Rice Jones Gentleman taken ut supra.  
THe Deponant by virtue of his oath, doth acknowledge to have seen the mask for a Letter, cut in Parchment, and sent (as Parson Jones told this Deponant) from Master Park to Parson Jones from Newtown.  
And further this Deponant doth confess, That morning after Sergeant Heath and Roger Smith returned from Mannor-Hammilton to Newtown, Master Robert Park sent this Deponant to Mullmory o Diggennan, to acquaint him, that Sir Frederick Hamilton had caused to apprehend his son Loghlan Oge, and had sent for the said Mullmory to be sent him likewise; and therefore Master Park wished the Deponant to advertise him, and to advise him to shift for himself, for he durst no longer protect him.   

The Depositions of William Parkenson of Newtown Butler, taken the 12. Jan. 1642.  
WHo deposeth, that he was told by Mullmory o Diggennan, that he had procured for his Master, Mr. Robert Park eight pound sterlin, of one of the Creans near Sligoe, upon three pieces of Plate, which was sent from his Master by Humphrey Jones, who received the Money and brought it to Master Park.  
And further deposeth, That since this Rebellion, one Irishman called Owen mac Bryan, told this Deponant one day in a great passion, that he hoped ere long, all the English Rogues or English Dogs, should be cut in pieces and destroyed, or words to this purpose; with which words, this Deponant acquainted Master Park.  
And further deposeth, That while as Bryan Ballaghes Cows grazed near Newtown, during the Camp about Mannor-Hammilton Castle, this Deponant observed a Woman and a Wench, once or twice a week, to bring in Milk to the Castle of the Newtown, from Bryan Ballaghes Bolly, which was spent at Master Parcks' Table; but whether or not, this Woman was Bryan Ballaghes Cowherds Wife, as by others is alleged, this Deponant knoweth not.   

The Depositions of Thomas Witticomb Smith, taken the 10. of August. 1642.  
DEposeth, That about Candlemas last, one Mullmory o Diggennan, servant to Master Robert Park, coming to this Deponants shop with Plough-Irons in his hand. Sergeant Heath meeting him there, told him, it was a good sight to see him in these troublesome times provide Ploughing; whereunto this Deponant heard the said Mullmory reply, That they might provide what they pleased, but none of this Country would do any more good with Ploughing, until Sir Fred. Hamilton were cut off, whereunto Sergeant Heath replied it were better a 1000 the like of Mullmory were hanged, than that Sir Frederick should be cut off; And further this Deponant saith, that he was sent for by Master Park to his own Chamber, and examined upon these words in presence of Sergeant Heath, both of us justifying to Master Pa r that we heard Mullmory speak these words.   

The Depositions of William Bryan of Newtown Weaver, taken ut supra.  
WHo being duly sworn and examined deposeth, that having served Master Park in his Town of Newtown, since May was a year, until the beginning of this rebellion, that he got leave from Master Park to put his Looms in the Castle of Newtown, where he wrought for his Master and others as would pay him; and further deposeth that about Shrovetide last, whiles the camp lay about Mannor-Hammilton Castle, a servant of Bryan Ballagh O Roirke, whose name the Deponant knows not, (who many times used to come to Master Parcks' house) did ask the Deponant if he would work a piece of cloth for his Master Bryan Ballagh, who answered if Master Park would give him leave; the Deponant shortly finding Master Park without the Castle-gate, told him that Bryan Ballaghs' man desired him to work a piece of cloth for his Master, This Deponant ask Master Park if he thought it would be any hurt for him to work it, whereunto Master Park replied, that he hoped it would be no hurt for him at all; Some weeks after this Bryan Ballaghs' man coming again to the house, this Deponant advised him to bring his Master's yearn, which accordingly the man did towards the middle of Lent, the Deponant at that time having some of Master Parcks own cloth in hand, Master Park coming into the workhouse, asked this Deponant if Bryan Ballagh had not as yet sent his yearn to be woven, which so soon as it came, employed one William Morray a Scots man of his own Trade, to work the cloth for him, this Deponant during that time only providing of the pernes, which cloth was a weaving until good Friday, which was the day after the camp was beaten and broken up from about Mannor-Hammilton Castle, which morning very early before Sun rising Bryan Ballaghs' man came for the cloth, the Deponant telling him it was not quit ready, wishing him to come in the afternoon, and he should have it, but the messenger replied that he could not go without it, the cloth being shortly afterwards finished Master Park sends one Anthony Collecarway a servant of his own, commanding speedily to deliver the cloth to Bryan Ballaghs' man, this Deponant receiving for his work six shillings wanting two pence, the cloth amounting to so much, after the rate of two pence the yard weaving, this Deponant further deposeth. Whiles the Cloth was in the Loom a working, that Sergeant Heath divers times came into the Workhouse, telling this Deponent that he would be hanged for working of Bryan Ballaghs' Cloth then in Rebellion; the Deponant answering him, that he did nothing, but he was commanded and warranted by Master Park.   

The Deposition of Willam Morray Weaver, taken ut supra.  
Who Deposeth, that about New-year's day last, being kept at Kilkenny Castle, in the County of Mayo, and coming in that case towards Manor Hamilton, and passing by Master Parkes mill, near the New-town, one of the Rogues laid hand on this Deponant, not suffering him and one Edward Maxwell in his company, to pass towards Enniskillin as they pretended, but advised this Deponant to go towards New-town, one of the Rogues speaking good English; whom this Deponent hath divers times since seen at New-town Castle; where the Deponant being come he was employed by Mr. Park as other soldiers were, in standing Sentry, and doing duty about the Castle, and sometimes working in his Trade; and at such time as Bryan Ballagh O Roirks yearn was sent to be wrought by William Bryan, Mr. Park at that time commanded the Deponant to leave all other work, and to fall about Bryan Ballagh O Roirks cloth, promising the Deponant he should be exempted of all other work and duty, until it were finished.   

The Deposition of Owen Mac O Bryan, Sergeant to Master Robert Park taken the 15th. of July, 1642.  
Who deposeth, that about the 20th. of January last in the morning, being at New-town brushing his Master's ; the Butler William Parkinson came to the Deponant, telling him there was a Horseman at the Gate desirous to speak with him, and as the Deponant went down the stairs he perceived Sergeant Heath, and a many of the soldiers upon the Bawn-Walls, gazing upon some Horsemen riding by the Castle; and as the Deponant came to the Gate he did see ● Kinsman of his own called Maurice mac O Bryan sitting on Horseback, who had formerly served Mr. George Craston, and was now in service as he told the Deponant with Captain Bryan Mac Donaghie, who was riding by the Castle with Colonel Lucas Taffe, who had sent him the said Maurice to present both their services to Mr. Robert Park, and withal told the Deponant they were riding towards Mannor-Hammilton, where their Regiment lay with the Camp near that Castle: whiles the Deponant was thus in discourse with his Kinsman, William Parkinson, the Butler called the Deponant to come in, that the Gate might be shut; but before the Deponant entered the Gate, Captain Mac Donaghie called to him Owen mac O Bryan how do you; but the Deponant being in haste to shut the Gate made no answer, but presently went to his Master being in Bed, acquainting him that Colonel Taffe, and Captain Bryan mac Donaghy were with four or five Horse riding so near the Castle towards Mannor-Hammilton thinking Mr. Park (they being so few) would have commanded men to have followed after them; but Mr. Park being in Bed, observing so many come in unto him with these news, angrily bid them, let them Ride where they would for him, what had he to do with them; Mr. Park at that time commanding near sixty or seventy able men within that Castle, most willingly to have been employed.  
The Deponant further faith; that about Candlemas last, one Cormick mac Robert MacTernan, then in Rebellion with Bryan Ballagh O Roirk, the said Cormick being Foster-father to Walter Harrison, being then in the Castle with Mr. Park, did send three Beefs about midnight to the said Walter Harrison, Mr. Park causing the Gate to be opened and received them, one of the Beefs being bestowed upon Mr. Park, another was sold for ten shillings to John Darrington, and the third sold too, to Rice Jones, as this Deponant heard; and faith, that shortly after John powel and others of the soldiers being not suffered by Mr. Park to meddle with any of Bryan Ballaghs and the Rebel's Cows which grazed daily near to the Castle; in the nighttime the said John powel and and others conveyed themselves over the Bawn-walls with Ropes, and brought in some Cows with them that same night, which Walter Harrison alleged to be his Foster-fathers' Cormick mac Robert's Cows, and therefore would not suffer one of them to be touched but turned back to the Rebels. The next night the same soldiers ventured as before with Ropes over the Walls, bringing whom with them eight Cows, and thirty Sheep, wherewith Mr. Park being acquainted got out of his Bed, clapping his hands, and crying out, that they should be all undone, causing them presently to drive back, both the Cows and the Sheep, not suffering the Soldiers to kill one Beast of them. And further saith, that he did see Bryan Ballagh O Roirks herd brought to Master Park by one Mullmory O Diggennan, complaining to Master Park, that they had found one of Bryan Ballaghes Cows, which had been taken and killed by a poor Englishman, Thomas Normand, and his Wife, who were by Master Park turned out of the Castle a little before that; upon which complaint, Master Park in a great anger, bid the said Mullmory, and the Cowherd, do with the said Normand, and the killed Cow, what they pleased, for he had before that, turned him and his Wife and Children, out of the Castle; and since had nothing to do with them: The Cow-herd many times threatening the poor Englishman in Master Parcks' presence, that since it was so, he would have the said Normands head for the Cow.  
This Deponant further faith, That he being in company with Walter Harrison and Thomas Lambard, near to the Castle of the Newtown, they all three went towards Torilagh O Boyland, and his Brother donnel O Boyland, where they were a Ploughing within less than Musket shot to the Castle; where the said donnel O Boyland shown this Deponant several stobs and cuts which he had received in his Jerkin, that day Mullmory mac Ternan, and divers others of the Country Gentlemen were killed by Sir frederick's party, as they retreated from the Newtown. The Deponant asked the said donnel, how he durst fight against any of the King's Soldiers, who answered, That neither he, nor any of his Father's Children would fight against any other, but such as were commanded by Sir Frederick Hamilton, who daily destroyed so many of them; the Deponant being asked, why they did not upon that confession, apprehend the said donnel, and carry him to Master Park, the Deponant replied, That none of them durst meddle with any of these O Boylands, nor any other of those Irish that used daily about the Castle, and allowed by their Master to Plough, which he might easily see out of his Chamber Window; as also, the Deponant doth acknowledge, several times, to have seen the Cloth while it was a Weaving within the Castle, by Master Parcks' directions, for Bryan Ballagh O Roirk at that time, whiles the said Bryan Ballagh O Roirk was encamped about Mannor-Hammilton Castle.   

The Depositions of Walter Harrison, taken the 13. of January, 1642.  
WHo acknowledgeth, That he the Deponant being in the Castle of the Newtown with Master Robert Park, the Deponants Foster-Father called Cornick mac Robert mac Ternan, did one night since this Rebellion, send by a Boy of the Deponants, called Teag mac Ternan, three Beefs, which this Deponant received about midnight, Master Park causing the Castle-Gate to be opened and to put them into the Bawn: Which three Beefs, as the Deponant allegeth, were for the use of the Castle. The next night after, the Soldiers brought in five Cows more, which the Deponant believed, did belong to his Foster-Father, telling them, if they were his, it was shame for them to bring in a poor man's Cows, who had supplied them the night before, there being so many of Bryan Ballaghes O Roirks, and others of the Rebels Cows, daily grazing so near that Castle, and that it were better to seize upon them, then upon his poor Foster-fathers'; whereupon by order, were commanded to forsake those Cows: And the next night the same Soldiers brought eight Cows, and thirty Sheep from the Rebels, wherewith Master Park being acquainted, got out of his Bed in a great passion, clapping his hands, coming to the Gate, and many times crying out, now we are all undone, causing the Gate to opened, and to drive the Cows and Sheep towards the Rebels again.   

The Depositions of Benjamin Alexander, Clerk, taken the 10. of August. 1642.  
WHo deposeth, That upon the rumour of this Rebellion, the Deponant being then at Sligoe, went to Master Parcks, with whom he remained in his Castle: and being there about the 20. of January last, being in Bed, This Deponant heard, that there was three or four Captains riding in haste by the Castle, and that they had a compliment to Master Park of their love and service, and that they were going to Camp at Mannor-Hammilton; the Deponant being asked, what men as he thought was then in the Castle, the Deponant thinketh near betwixt fifty and sixty, and denieth to have heard of any motion for stopping, or following of them, which pretended to go to the Camp at Mannor-Hammilton: And further deposeth, That at the same time, as Lieutenant Lesly was sent with a party to have relieved Master Park, being then as was reported beset with the Rebels, the Country being observed to be gathering together, to prevent the Lieutenant, and the parties return: This Deponant heard it mentioned to Master Park, (but by whom he cannot tell) that the Drum should beat, and that twenty or thirty of his men should go along, as a guard to help the Lieutenant, and the party; which motion was pressed by divers, but Master Park would not yield to it: And further deposeth, That one Roger Guise told this Deponant, that he had received a Box on the ear from an Irish footman of Master Parcks, for speaking against Owen O Roirk, who was said to be killed, when they were camping near the Church of Clanclare. And further deposeth, He heard that Sergeant Heath and Roger Smith, upon their return from Mannor-Hammilton, delivered a message to Master Park, that he should apprehend Mullmory O Diggennan, and send him to Mannor-Hammilton, otherwise Sir Frederick would hold him as a Traitor.   

The Depositions of Connor O Finny, taken the 13. of January. 1642.  
WHo deposeth, That upon the Tuesday or Wednesday before Easter last, the Rogues of the County of Sligoe and Letrim, lying their encamped near Mannor-Hammilton Castle, the Deponant was sent for by his Master, Master Park of Newtown, and commanded him to carry a Linen Bag with him, with some things in it along in his Company, with one Teage Reagh O Gillgan, a Tenant to Andrew Crean, dwelling at a Village called Curvulagh, on the way near Sligoe; and as he went from his Master, he met the party Teage O Gillgan at the Gate, with whom the Deponant was commanded to go to his house, and there to have left the Bag, and to have brought to his Master from thence, an example of some Malt; but as the Deponant was going, he was commanded, within less than a quarter of a mile to the Newtown, the Deponant was taken by half a score of Rogues, calling themselves Soldiers to donnel O Connor, they taking the Bag from the Deponant, threatening to carry him to Mannor-Hammilton Camp, to their Colonels, where he should be hanged; but by the persuasion of Teage O Gillgan, they meddled not with the Bag, but carried this Deponant a little way off, where they met with the two Captains, Captain John O Crean, and Captain donnel O Connor, who by the persuasion of Teage O Gillgan, suffered this Deponant to return to his Master, after promise made by him, that he should return to them the next day, having got his , and that he should bring a piece with him: being demanded whether there was Money or Plate in the Bag, by the virtue of his oath deposeth, That he could not say what was in it, for he never opened it; but faith, so soon as the Captains came, the Bag was delivered to the party in his Company, as Master Park had appointed, and that by the command of the two Captains, and the Deponant sent home to his Master without further harm; who when he came to his Master, telling what had befallen him, his Master asked how he escaped, saying, that he was glad he so escaped, without any more harm; the Deponant not being from him above three or four hours, and ask what became of the Bag, the Deponant told him, the party had received it, by the Captain's command whom he sent it to: And further saith, That he was told that day by the Rogues, that the Sunday before they had carried away fifteen or sixteen of Sir Frederick Hammiltons' Horses; and that before Sunday next, they were sure to have his Castle, Bidding the Deponant tell Master Park, to yield his Castle, otherwise they had a Piece of Ordnance, and would beat it about his ears, when they came from Mannor-Hammilton; whether that day the Deponant saw the Rogues flocking towards the Camp in several numbers, as if they had been going to a Fair; being asked, whether or not to the Deponants knowledge Teage Reagh O Gillgan had spoken with his Master, that morning he received the Bag or not, to which question, the Deponant faith, He doth not know, he meeting him at the Gate.   

The Copy of a Certificate given under the hands of several Gentlemen, at the desire of Sir Frederick Hamilton. Dated 14. of January. 1642.  
WE the undernamed persons, do hereby acknowledge to have been present, by the desire of Sir Frederick Hamilton, Knight and Colonel, while as he read the several Depositions of Benjamin Alexander, Rice Jones, Thomas Jones, Roger Smith, William Parkenson, William Morray, William Bryan, Dermond Offerry, and George Heath, concerning Master Robert Park of Newtown, being personally present there himself, at the reading of the foresaid Depositions; where the several Deponants did in all our hear, acknowledge the Depositions to be the same, which upon oath they had deponed formerly, before the said Sir Frederick. And thus much we have thought fit to certify under our hands, being desired so to do, lest hereafter any of the said former Witnesses should miscarry, to the prejudice of His Majesty's future Service; which accordingly we have done, As witness our several hands hereunto set, the day and year aforesaid.  


William Lesly, Lieutenant.  
John Long, Preacher.  
John Cunningham, Preacher.  
Alex. Mountgumery, Preacher.  
Robert Sidney.  
James Vaughan, Lieutenant.  
David Greere.  
John Baxton.     

The Copy of a Letter from the Lords Justices and Council of Ireland.  
AFter our very hearty Commendations, on the 21. of this Month, We received your Letters of the 19 of November, and second of December, and do acknowledge to you, with special thanks, your good endeavours in those parts; and although we cannot yet send you relief, as we desire, yet we are assured, that in short time, we shall be enabled to do it.  
There are arrived here this day, fourteen hundred men, sent us forth of England; and further, powerful succours are in the way a coming, whom we expect to arrive ere long, and with them will come plentiful store of Arms, whereby we shall be the better enabled to supply those parts, as we much desire to do.  
In the mean time, we think fit, that you reinforce the Foot-Company under your Command, so as they may consist of a hundred men, and to Arm them the best way you can, until by the coming of the supply of Arms, we expect, we may be enabled to send. Arms for them, which yet we cannot do with safety, if we had Arms here, until by the strength of His Majesty's Army, we shall clear the passages thither, which by God's help we doubt not in short time to do: And so we bid you hearty farewell.  
From His Majesty's Castle of Dublin, 30. Decemb. 1641.  
We send you here enclosed, a Commission for prosecution of the Rebels, with power of Marshal Law.  


Ormond Assery,  
Will. Parsons,  
Joh. Borlasse.  
Cham Lambard,  
Adam Loftus,  
Joh. Temple.     

William Parsons, Joh. Borlasse.  By the Lords Justices and Council. 
TRusty and Well-beloved, We greet you well, We having entered into a serious consideration of the most Rebellious Insurrections of divers false Traitors in the Province of Ulster, and elsewhere in this Kingdom, and of the most wicked inclination of many unnatural men, inhabiting upon the several Borders of Ulster, and elsewhere; who have already begun in the action of the most Rebellious conspiracies now on foot, threatening a general destruction to all His Majesty's good Subjects of this Kingdom. To cut off the said detestable offenders, and to prevent the devastation and spoil of His Majesty's good People, We therefore thought fit, and so do Ordain, Require, and Authorize you, to make diligent search and inquiry throughout the Counties of Letrim and Sligoe, and the Borders adjoining thereunto, for all Traitors and Traitorous persons above mentioned, and their adherents; And them to apprehend, and duly examine, concerning their Traitorous actions: And if you shall find any person or persons, that have committed or joined, in any of the said actions, to proceed with him or them, in the course of Martial Law, by hanging him or them, till he or they be dead, as hath been accustomed in time of open Rebellion, as your conscience and discretion shall guide you therein. And for the better execution of this Our Commission, We do hereby Authorise you, to raise such numbers of men of those Counties, for your assistance, as you shall think fit; and to take Meat and Drink, not exceeding the value of six pence per diem each man, during the service only. And we straightly Command the Sheriffs of the said Counties, for the time being, and all other Officers, Ministers and loving Subjects, to whom it may appertain, To be unto you in the due execution hereof, always aiding, helping, and assisting, whensoever they shall be required by you, as they shall answer the contrary, at their uttermost perils; And that this Our Commission shall continue, during Our pleasure only. As for your so doing as aforesaid, This shall be your sufficient Warrant. Given at His Majesty's Castle of Dublin, 30. Decemb. 1641.  
To Our Trusty and Well-beloved Sir Frederick Hamilton, Knight. 

Ormond Assery.  
Cham Lambard.  
Ada. Loftus.  
Joh. Temple.    
FINIS.