Magnalia Dei Anglicana. OR, England's Parliamentary-Chronicle.  
Containing a full and faithful Series, and Exact Narration of all the most memorable Parliamentary-Mercies, and mighty (if not miraculous) Deliverances, great and glorious Victories, and admirable Successes, of the Counsels and Armies of this present Parliament, both by Sea and by Land, over the whole Kingdom of England, in the most just defence and Vindication of her Religion, Laws, and Liberties, from the year, 1640. to this present year, 1646. Compiled in 4 Parts; The two first, entitled, God in the Mount. The third, God's Ark overtopping the World's Waves; The fourth, The Burning-Bush not Consumed: This last Part, coming up to These Present Times, and to our most renowned General, Sir Thomas Fairfaxes late famous Actions, in the West, and the happy (because unbloody) rendition of Oxford, in this present year, 1646.  
Collected chiefly for the high Honour of our Wonderworking God; And for the unexpressible Comfort of all Cordial English PARLIAMENTARIANS. By the most unworthy Admirer of Them, JOHN VICARS.  Gen. 49. 22, 23, 24. Joseph is a fruitful Bough, even a fruitful Bough, by a Well; whose Branches run over the Wall. The Archers shot at him and hated him; But his Bow abode in strength, and the Arms of his hands were made strong, by the Hand of the mighty God of Jacob; from thence is the Shepherd; the stone of Israel. 
Imprinted at London, for J. Rothwell, at the Sun & Fountain, in Paul's Churchyard, and Tho. Vnderhill, at the Bible in Woodstreet. 1646.   

THE Burning-Bush not Consumed. OR, The FOURTH and Last PART OF THE PARLIAMENTARIE-CHRONICLE.  
Containing a full and Faithful Continuation and Exact Narration of all the most material and most Memorable Proceedings of this renowned Parliament. The Armies and Forces, which are or have been in the several parts of the Kingdom; The Description of all the brave Battles, Victories, and famous Defeats given to the Enemies, both by Sea and by Land; Especially, the winning of Newcastle, the glorious Victory at Nazeby, and that famous Victory at Langport, won through fire and water; Together with all the other admirable Successes of our most Renowned and Victorious General, Sir Thomas Fairfax, with his despised New-Modelled Army in the West, even to admiration: and the happy Rendition of Oxford, and the rest of the strong Garrisons about it. Beginning from August, 1644. and coming up to this present Month of July, 1646.  
Collected for God's high Honour, and all pious Parliamentarians COMFORT: By the most unworthy Admirer of Them, JOHN VICARS.  Isaiah 63. 7. I will mention the Loving kindness of the Lord, and the high praises of our God, according to all the rich Mercies which the Lord hath bestowed upon us; And his great goodness toward us (his English-Israel) which he hath conferred on us, according to his great Mercies, and according to the Multitudes of his loving kindnesses. 
The Third, and this Fourth Part, being Printed at the sole and entire cost and charge of the Author Himself.  
Imprinted at London by R. C. and M. B. for M. Spark, at the Bible in Green Arbour, J. Rothwel, at the Sun in P. Church yard, & T. Vnderhill, at the Bible in Woodstr. 1646   

TO The Right Honourable Peers, and Pious Patriots of this Kingdom, Algernon, Earl of Northumberland; Philip, Earl of Pembroke; Robert, Earl of Essex; Robert, Earl of Warwick; Oliver, Earl of Bullingbrook; Edward, Earl of Manchester; Ferdinando, Lord Fairfax;  
His Excellency, Sir Thomas Fairfax, Captain General of all the Parliaments Forces over the Kingdom; Sir William Waller; Sir Harbotle Grimstone; Harbotle Grimstone, Esquire; Walter Young, Esquire; Sir John Young; Francis Rouse, Esquire; Edmund Prideaux, Esquire; and Major General massy;  
And to the Rest of the most Noble and Right Worthily Renowned, and Honourable Lords and Commons, and Famous Soldiers and Senators, Assembled in Parliament, that are loyally affected, and Constantly Addicted to the Greatwork of a Glorious and Thorough Reformation of the Kingdom's Evils, in Church and State:  
John Vicars most humbly Dedicateth and Consecrateth Himself and These most Grateful Memorials of Gods Eternal Glory; and Their high Honour; And ever prays (as he is most justly bound) for a most plentiful Repay of enlarged Gracious Honour, here, and Glorious Immortality, hereafter, (For all their pious Pains and indefatigable Labours, Loyalty and Love, for the Best-Good of Church and State) to be showered down into the Bosoms of Them, and their Posterity, after them, for ever.   

TO The Right Honourable. Thomas adam's, Esq Lord Major of the most famous and renowned City of London; And to the Right Worshipful, Sir John Wollastone, Knight and Alderman of the said most Renowned City.  
TO The Right Worshipful, his most highly Honoured singular good Friend, Sir Matthew Brand, Knight, High Sheriff of the County of Surrey; And the Right Worshipful Sir Richard Springal, Knight.  
TO The Right Worshipful and truly Pious and Virtuous, the Lady Francesse Brand; The Lady Anne Springal; The Lady Rebeccah W●llastone; And Mistress Mary Grimstone; All of them, my Pious and most precious Friends; And Honourable, and Worshipful Patrons and Patronesses and principal Encouragers and Countenancers of all my poor and unworthy Labours and Endeavours to advance God's Glory and Unspotted precious TRUTHS:  
John Vicars their meanest and most unworthy Votary, most humbly Dedicates and Consecrates Himself and all his poor, but most bounden Services; And ever prays for their perpetual and pious increase of all Honour and Happiness, here; and an immarcescible Crown of Glory, hereafter.   

A Colossus of Eternal bounden Gratitude: OR, A panegyrical Pyramids of perpetual Praise. First erected by our Britain's ingenious and ingenuous MERCURY: And, now, Re-erected by the unworthy Author of this Parliamentary-Chronicle, with some plain and homely Inlaid-Work of his own, insome convenient places.  

1 To God,  
TO the Eternall-Ternall-Trin-Vn Glorious and ineffably illustricus, Great and Gracious, most Holy, and most Wise Wonderworking JEHOVAH, Great Britain's only Rock of Defence, and most prudent Pilot, steering and upholding her Weatherbeaten Bark, through the midst of the Ocean of all her turbulent and overflowing Floods and swelling Waves of bloody Woes and Wretchedness. The most Potent and Provident Shepherd of his English-Israel, discovering and defeating all the malignant Machinations, and Hell-hatcht deep Designs of Wrath and Ruin, most maliciously intended, and most desperately attempted by Papistical, Prelatical and Atheistical Wolves, a degenerous Generation of her Vnnaturall-Native● Parricides. To this Great God, this Righteous Lord and King of Heaven and Earth, who is thus glorious in Holiness, fearful in Praises, and hath (in mere Mercy and free Grace) done all these most memorable Wonders for us, in Crowning us with so many most glorious Victories and treading our Enemies under our feet, Let England and Scotland, and with them, all the Powers and Potentates of the World (with the 24 Elders, Revel. 4. 10, 11.) fall before this great God, and the Lamb that sits upon the Thr●ne, and worship Him that liveth for ever and ever; and cast their Crowns down at his feet, before the Throne, saying, Thou, O Lord, alone, art most worthy to receive all Glory, and Honour, and Power; For, Thou hast created this great Salvation and Deliverance for us; Ye●, and All-Things were created, and are for thy pleasure and Praise. Even so, Amen.   

2 To the Parliament.  
TO the High and Honourable-Court of Parliament, the renowned Lords and Commons, as His Sublunary, prime and principal Agents and Instruments, in these our mighty and even miraculous Deliverances; I must and do most justly and ingenuously acknowledge your Loyalty and Zeal, to and for God and your Country; your constant out-daring of all Plots and Conspiracies. (witness, that grand and unparallelled Affront and Abuse, January, the 4. 1641.) Yea, all Violence from abroad, and at home. The many thousand Mischievous Machinations against us. Your continual, and indefatigable tuggings through so many Counterplots and Oxford fine-Designes, the like, never heard of, nor recorded, in any age or history. Have ye not most unanimously kept, even to this day, (and, long may ye) that famous Act of Continuation, even miraculously sealed unto you by the Royal Hand? Who could have said, 7 years ago, That a Parliament should have sat, at all again, in England? Much less, a Parliament to sit incessantly, till now, at Westminster, especially considering that forementioned intended Acheldama, or Field of Blood, in the House of Commons, by those armed ruffianly Royalists; Yea, and an Army whom ye paid, when they were plotting and preparing to come against you; and, as it were, rewarded them for intending your destruction, (a Bounty hardly heard of, in other ages) and yet, for all these, a Parliament! They that saw whole Committees of Nobility and Gentry posting to York, and doing what they could to carry the very Parliament-House (had it been possible) along with them.  
And, since that, a pestilent and pernicious jugling-juncto, or Mock-Parliament, at Oxford, and yet, a Parliament at Westminster! They that knew the intestine- Tempt, secret- Sidings, and perverting- Partying, made within your own Walls, and yet, a Parliament at Westminster! A Parliament, indeed, of Prayer, summoned from Heaven; and by Prayer continued, in spite of Hell! And what shall I say of you, most Excellent Worthies, far transcending ancient Rome's so famoused grave and renowned Senators? Ye have pulled down our tyrannical Greivances, and set up our hereditary Liberties; Which, the People will (best) see, when the glistering of Swords is over (the eye of popular judgement being now a while, dazzled with war) every Grievance, now, seeming to reside in that which, so, for the present pinches. Ye have taken down, by your Excellent Ordinances, most of Idolatry, from among us, not suffering that Babylonish Harlot to have her name, so much as in a piece of Glass, nor the shadow of a strange God in the Walls of our Church-Buildings. Ye have Ordinanced away oppressing Prelacy, and Popish-apish Innovations, and mimical Ceremonies, those Dark-Lanthornes of the Bishops, by which, they (insensibly) thought to have brought in the triple-Crown, and none should have seen it, till it had been among us. Ye have Ordinanced standing-Remedies for standing-Troubles, even a Monethly-Fast, or Spirituall-Militia; and are not we a hardhearted People, that must be compelled to Repentance by a Law? Ye have Ordinanced a precious and pious Solemn League, or Covenant, to tie 3 Kingdoms together to their God, and One to another, if it might be; A most heavenly Engine, indeed, considering there are so many Tuggers to pull them asunder, both Papists, Prelates, atheistical- Malignants, and unhappily, if not unholily, dissenting Separatists. Yea, you have Ordinanced a reverend, religious, and learned Assembly of Divines (a divine auxiliary, indeed) to promove and properate the blessed work of building and beautifying Gods- House with powerful and pure Ordinances, and the Kingdom with a thorough- Reformation. These and many more such like admirable Advancements of the Lords Glory have ye most happily and honourably established and effected, for which, Posterity shall have just cause everlastingly to praise and bless the Lord for you. Finally, I may say of you, both renowned Houses of Lords and Commons, as Solomon of his praiseworthy Woman, Prov. 31. 29. Many Parliaments have done excellently, but, This present Parliament hath excelled them all.   

3 To the Assembly of Divines.  
TO the truly venerable Assembly of Divines, whom I must, most deservedly, congratulate for your unwearied pains, incessant disputes, and learned, toilings to build up (as much as in you is) the House of God, to a glorious Evangelicall structure; yea, and for your holy and grave reminding of the Parliament, continually, to keep time with God in Victories and Losses, by Praises and Humiliations. And, if any ask me, What ye are, now, a doing? I answer, Ye are doing; yea, doing the Work of the Lord, in sending the Word abroad by your divine Agents and faithful Factors for Reformation. Ye are praying and disputing us out of our distempers and distractions; And, shall not We be patient, until Ye (by God's gracious guidance and assistance) have argued-out the Truth from Error, and illustrious Light, from Glow-worm-Glistrings, and too evident Darkness? God forbid. However, Reverend Gentlemen, here's your Comfort, your Work (maugre all unbrotherly and uncharitable prejudice) is with your God, who will not leave it unrewarded.   

4. To the City of London.  
TO thee, most famous and faithful Metropolis of the Kingdom, the City of London, who deservest not the least Congratulation in this our Panegyric Pyramids of just Praises? Of which, I may most justly say (with the sweet Singer of Israel; Psal. 87▪ 3.) Many and most glorious things are spoken of thee, O City of God Hast not Thou been (under God) a grand- Bulwark, and a constant Garrison to the Cause of God? Have not ye (most venerable Senators and renowned Commons thereof) been a glorious and impregnable Reserve to 3 tottering Kingdoms? Do not Gloucester, Newberry, Redding, Arundel, etc. look red with the glorious guerdion of your crimson-Conquests? Have ye not exchanged your Shops for Tents? Your soft and smooth advantages, at home, for rugged-difficulties, and rough-dangers abroad? Have you not been an admirable rich Armoury, and a munificent Magazine to the Lords just and most righteous Cause? Hath it not been your Artillery (for the most part) and Ammunition, which have given such and so many successful Alar●●s to the enemies of God? Have not your happy Habitations been a Hyding-place, and a safeguarding Sanctuary, to God's afflicted Outcasts, and distressed Saints, their Wives and Children, from all parts (almost) of the whole Kingdom, whom, ye have with your Christian Charity and most helpful Hospitality nourished and cherished with the Brest-milk of your Love and Bounty? Have ye not been, as it were, an unexhaustible Exchequer to this great Cause? Witness the wonderful free and frequent disbursments of your money out of your Chests and purses, and liberal Emptying of your former rich and costly Cupboards of Plate, all to enrich the Gospel, and advance the glorious Work of Reformation of Evils in Church and State. And hath not this your zeal for God & his Truth, most illustriously flamed forth of late also, in that most famous and faithful, that pious and prudent Remonstrance or Petition of yours, exhibited to Both Houses of Parliament, May 26. 1646. for the beating down of Heresies, Errors, and Schisms, and the most religious advancement of the blessed work of pure Reformation, and a holy and happy settled Government of the Church of God? Such a pattern and monument of your Piety and godly zeal, I say, as shall remain to your Praise, and indelible renown to Posterity, throughout all Generations. And hath not Heaven sweetly resented (In Christ) these your precious Expenses, and fervent zeal for Religion, as so many holy Hol●causts, and hath, as it were (even already) sent down thanks and recompense of your Love and bounty, in much measure, into your Houses and Habitations? Witness (even to the just and joyful admiration of your Friends, and the envious astonishment of your Foes) the constant and copious incomes of Peace and Plenty, Health and Liberty, but most especially (and, which, indeed, Crowns all the rest) of the radiant and resplendent Gospel-Beams of pure and powerful Word and Ordinances; No leading into Captivity, in your streets, no slaughter or schrecving out of your Wives, Virgins, and little Children, nor Pestilential Mortality in your Houses. And, ye are (and that, most worthily) for all these so rich and rare, so many and marvellous Mercies, the present Wonder of the whole World, and, ever, O, for ever, so may ye be the Praise of all succeeding Posterity.   

5 TO our Warlike Worthies.  
To all the famous and renowned Worthies of Great-Britaine; and, first, To our meritoriously dear, and entirely beloved, loyal and faithful Brother-Kingdome of Scotland, to which we are everlastingly bound in all mutual, and reciprocal bonds of Love and Unity; Whose hearts, the Lord did so affect and enulame with Sympathising Love and Zeal to his glorious Cause, and to our (then) most low and calamitous Condition, that with most brotherly fervour and fellow-feeling affection, they entered into a holy League and Solemn Covenant with us, of mutual defence one of another; Cheerfully left their own Country and Kingdom, their dearest Friends, Wives and Children, and (through many difficulties and distresses, in a bitter and sore pinching Winter-march, even to deep admiration) carrying their lives in their hands, came in unto us, to help the Lord and us against his mighty and our most malicious Enemies. And whom, as the Lord made the main and principal instruments of the beginning of our happiness, both in saving our throats from the death-threatning knives of destruction, and procuring us a most unhoped and unexpectible Parliament (as the case was with us, then) which (under God) hath been the fountain of our felicity to this day: So, now at last also, the Lord hath made choice of them to be the Consummators, and, as it were, the main fin●shers of our felicity, in putting the Person of the King into their hands, as counting them faithful to improve such a Prize to the best advantage of his Glory and our Good, if we had but honest hearts so to consider it. And, heerin, more especially and peculiarly, to his Excellency, Magnanimous and Victorious General Lesley, Earl of Leven, most worthily famous among us, for ever, both for this famous Prize, the King's Person put into his hands; And for his most renowned Courage and Valour at Newcastle and Marston-Moore. Next, To his Excellency, the most noble and renowned Lord General, Robert Earl of Essex, most famous, faithful and courageous at Keynton and Newberry. To the most valiant and magnanimous present captain-general, his Excellency, Sir Thomas Fairfax, as famous and faithful at Naseby, Bristol. etc. of which two most noble and loyal Generals, I may say (as Plutarch, in his Lives, did of those two renowned ancient Romane-Commanders, Fabius, and Marcellus,) They have been (under God) The Sword and Buckler of the Kingdom. To the right noble loyal and religious Robert Earl of Warwick, the famous and faithful Lord high-admiral, whose Chivalry at Sea, and whose Seasonable Charity to Lime, ought never to be forgotten by us. To the renowned Peers and Patriots of their Country, the noble Earl of Manchester, and famous and faithful noble Lord, Fairfax, the Parliaments two most valiant and successful Generals, both in the North and Associated Counties. To undaunted, and never Enough honoured Sir William Waller, who hath been a strong Wall, and brave Bulwark, indeed, to this Kingdom, as Portsmouth, Aulton, Alsford, and his many other famous Victories can Witness. To magn animous Sir William Fairfax, and Sir John Meldrum, those two most Courageous Commanders, who most nobly spent their best blood, for the best Cause that ever this Kingdom undertook. To as valiant as virtuous Sir William Brereton, famous for his valour and activity in Cheshire, Namptwich, and now lately, at West chester. To religious and magnanimous Major General Skippon, that most pious Cornelius, and Expert brave Soldier, and Commander, as was admirably evident, in Cornwall, and at Naseby; of whom it was said, He lived like an Angel, prayed like a Saint, and fought like a Lyon. To never sufficiently praised and prized, Major General massy, far more worth than his weight in Massie-Gold, as the famous Siege of the City of Gloucester, and all that County, and the adjacent parts thereof can most copiously witness. To Renowned and right valiant and Victorious Lei●tenant General Cromwell. Those valiant victorious and active Patriots, Sir John Gell, and Sir Thomas Middleton. Renowned Major General Brown; Major General Laughorne; and Major General Poyntz. Valiant and victorious Colonel Mitton, Colonel Sydenham, Colonel Morgan, and brave Captain Swanley. Together with very many other most active, loyal, and most Courageous Commanders, and brave Brittish-Spirited Soldiers, Who all, most like unto David's Worthies (honourably Commemorized, 2 Sam. 23.) have made themselves most meritoriously famous in this Present Age, and to Future Posterity, for their so faithfully and valiantly serving thei● GenRration; Together also with the renowned Corporations, and invincible Garrisons of Hull, Gloucester, Manchester, Coventry, Warwick, Northampton, Stafford, Namptiwich, famous and faithful Plymouth, Lyme, and all the famous and faithful Governors, Holder's, and Upholders of them; With the most worthy and well-deserving Counties of Lancashire and Kent; And the other most famous and faithful Parliamentary-Patriots, Cities and Counties, most loyally and lovingly appearing in this great and good Cause, and most freely and forwardly jeoparding Themselves and their All, in the High-places of the Kingdom; yea, and whose gallantry of Spirits, indelible Merits, undaunted Resolutions, Memorable adventures, and great Engagements, even to Life, Estates, and all that was most near and dear unto them, have most justly called for, yea, Commanded a resounding Acknowledgement of their so honourable and heroic Actions, as an incessant Echo of perpetuated Applause, to all succeeding Generations, Who have not only made us to be their deep-debtours; but even the Gospel too together with all the Protestant-Churches of the World: And the Generations that are yet to come, shall pay tributary-Honours to their Ashes. And, O, that this present Generation would plant a Field of ever-flourishing Laurel, and fragrant Bays unto them, and tell their Children; These are for Garlands to deck the brows of all these our renowned Worthies, who have not been afraid to look Death in the face, for the preservation and maintenance of their more than Life, precious Gospel and Liberties.   

6 To God.  
ANd, now again (in the last place, as in the first) since the Lord JEHOVAH, our Great and Glorious Wonderworking God, is and aught to be the Alpha and Omega, of all things in Heaven and in Earth; And is, indeed, the Author and Finisher both of our Faith and of all our Felicity; And hath so freely and so fully wrought and done All our Works, in us, and for us; And so admirably raised up all these Saviour's, the Means and Instruments to be thus happily and successfully assistant to us: For all these so rich and rare; for all these so many and marvellous Blessings, Benedictions, and Preservations, thus gra●ciously and gushingly flowing out and poured down upon Us: Therefore, I say, to This only Wise God of Peace and Power, this unexhaustible overflowing Fountan of Free Grace and Goodness, whose Ways are unsearchable, whose Power is unresistible, and whose unlimited Love and boundless Bounty is unexpressible, Who hath, thus, done abundantly above All that we were able to ask, think, or desire, much less (in the least measure) to deserve, according to the Power of his Spirit, whereby he is able, indeed, to do All Things, To Him Alone, and Altogether, be all Honour, and Glory, Dominion, and Praise, with all holy Reverence, and Universal Obedience▪ in the Church of God▪ by Jesus Christ, throughout all Generations even worldwithout end. Amen and Amen.    

THE SONG of MOSES: PARAPHRASTICALLY And Metrically applied to our Present-Purpose.  
AS A Preparative whereunto, let me beseech every Religious Reader of this Parliamentary Chronicle, to rouse up his Soul and raise up his Spirit, with this fervent and affectionate ejaculation of holy David, that Sacred and Sugared Singer of Israel.  Psal. 57 7, 8, 9, 10. My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed, I will sing and give Praise. Awake up, my Glory, awake, Psaltery and Harp! Yea, I myself will awake, right early. I will praise thee, O Lord, among the People, I will sing unto thee among the Nations. For, thy Mercy is great unto the Heavens; And thy Truth reacheth unto the Clouds. 

THE Song of Moses, paraphrastically applied in Meeter, to our present purpose.  
IF ever Moses had just cause to sing  
The high-tuned praises of heavens glorious King,  
When God his Israel out of Egypt brought  
And with strong Arm and mighty Wonders wrought,  
Them, from tyrannical Tax-masters freed,  
And their Deliverance, (long before decreed)  
Had, now, completely brought to pass, with Fame,  
And all his People gladly saw the same;  
Themselves secure on Land, their Foes all drowned,  
And they had (thus) Gods Promise faithful found:  
Then, sure, as justly, it to us belongs  
With as enlarged-hearts to sing such Songs;  
Even us, I say, Gods English-Israel,  
It ev'ry-way befits, becomes, as well,  
To magnify and Omnifie Heaven's name,  
And with incessant sounds of Trumpets of Fame,  
With Voice and Verse, with tongues and hands and hearts  
Triumphantly to put forth our best-Parts;  
And with God-pleasing Moses, thus, to sing  
The endless praise of heavens eternal King.   

The Song.  
SIng praise, sing praise unto Jehovah high,  
For, he hath triumphed, most gloriously,  
O'er all our foes; The horse and Rider, He  
Hath tumbled down to deepest misery.  
Yea, all the rotten-Rout● of Romanists,  
Papists and Prelates, Atheists, Royalists,  
And mad-Malignants, void of Grace or Sense,  
To whom, God, now, hath made just recompense.  
The Lord is our sure-strength and pleasant-Song.  
And unto him, yea, him alone belong  
The precious praise of our Salvation sweet,  
He is our God, let us (as is most meet)  
Prepare, for him, a holy Habitation  
Who is our God, yea, God of all our Nation.  
Let us make holy-haste to edify,  
His glorious Church, in worship's purity.  
For, sure, the Lord's a Man of War most stout  
The Lord God is his Name, the world throughout;  
The proudest Princes that against him rose,  
The strongest, stoutest hosts of furious foes,  
With all their boldest, bravest Captains, He  
Hath drowned and drenched in Seas of misery;  
And, like a Stone, made them sink deep and fall,  
Death and destruction hath them swallowed all.  
The Right hand of the Lord is most Victorious,  
The Right hand of the Lord is strong and glorious:  
And full of Power, and Might, and Majesty,  
To dash in pieces each proud Enemy.  
And in the Greatness of thy glorious Might  
Thou hast o'er thrown all that against Thee fight,  
And mad'st their swelling Pride, but as a Bubble,  
And by thy Wrath consumedst them like stubble;  
And with thy Nostrils easy Breath and Blast,  
The swelling Waves were, like great Banks, up cast,  
And made, on heaps, to stand up, like a Wall,  
And, so congealed that they could not fall:  
And when thine Enemies, which saw this sight,  
(Stuffed and stirred up with rancour, rage, and spite)  
Said, in themselves; So, so; I'll, now, pursue,  
I'll overtake, and make them All to rue,  
I will divide the spoil, and satisfy  
My utmost Lust upon them, till they die,  
I'll draw my Sword, and quickly them destroy,  
My hand shall bring them all to dire annoy:  
And thus, O thus, did ou● proud Enemies  
Resolve, o'er us, to trea● and tyrannize,  
All England, Scotland, Ireland quite to foil,  
And 'mongst themselves, soon, to divide the Spoil;  
But, in the midst of their insulting Pride,  
The Lord Jehovah blew, brought back the tide,  
Turned all those Watery Walls to liquid Waves,  
And made the Ocean the eternall-graves,  
Of all his Israel's foes, who sank, like Lead,  
Into the Seas vast depth, till they were dead.  
O, therefore, who (Great God) in like to Thee?  
Who, 'mongst all gods, to Thee compared may be?  
In Holiness most glorious, and in Praise,  
Most fearful, Working Wonders in our days!  
When Thou thy powerful Right hand stretchest out,  
Thou mak'st the Earth devour thy Foes most stout;  
But, Thou, in thy rich Grace dost lead along  
Thy Chosen Flock, and them redeemest from wrong;  
And, in thy strength, dost them most safely guide,  
And, in thy holy Habitation hide.  
The Heathens shall this hear and be afraid,  
With woe shall Palestina be dismayed;  
The Dukes of Edom shall astonished be,  
And, when as Moabs' mighty Men shall see  
Gods mighty Wonders, they shall tremble All,  
The Canaanites shall moulder, melt and fall.  
Even France and Spain, and Rome and Denmark bold,  
Shall be amazed when they the things behold,  
Which God hath d●ne for England, Scotland, and  
Malignants all shall thus astonished stand;  
And, fear and dread shall them soon overtake,  
And Gods strong Arm, as still as Stones them make;  
Till all thy People (Lord) pass over free,  
Till they pass over, purchased by Thee;  
Till Thou hast brought them in, and planted, sure,  
Upon thy holy Mountain to endure;  
In thine Inheritance, thy precious Place,  
Which, Thou, O Lord, hast made, full fraught with Grace,  
And heavenly Glory, where Thyself doth dwell,  
Thy Sanctuary, where all joys excel;  
By thine own export Hand most rarely made  
To all Eternity established, stayed,  
Where, Thou, O Lord, most gloriously dost Reign,  
And shalt for ever, evermore remain.  
For why? proud Pharaoh's Horse and Chariots All,  
His daring Horsemen, Riders strong and tall,  
Into the Sea, audaciously, did enter,  
And, durst into the Deep, most proudly venture,  
But, suddenly, the Lords great Blast did blow,  
And all the Waves and Floods did backward flow;  
And drench and drown them All, in Israel's eye,  
Whil●●, This his People passed over dry.  
Thus (as said Jethro) in the very Thing  
Wherein they proudly dealt, heavens glorious King,  
Was admirably far above them All,  
And into utter Ruin made them fall.  
And, thus (may I say) England's glorious King,  
To whom (so justly) we these praises sing,  
Hath wondrously declared unto us All,  
That, in the Things intended for our thrall,  
By our Papistick, Atheistick Foes,  
The Lord Jehovah, far above them rose,  
And tumbled them into the Pit which they  
Had digged, as deep as Hell, for our decay.  
For this, O Lord, this great deliverance,  
Our Souls, our Songs Thy Praise do thus advance;  
For this so great, so gracious Love, O Lord,  
Our Hearts and Tongues thy Praises do record:  
For this so mighty Mercy, glorious King,  
For evermore we will thy Praises sing,  
And tell our children's Children of the same,  
That they, when we are dead, may blaze thy Fame,  
To their Posterity, for evermore;  
O sing aloud all Laud and Praise, therefore,  
Advance, O England, then, thy cordiall-voyce,  
To heavens great King, who makes us thus rejoice.  
Omnis Gloria solius est Domini.  
FINIS.    

Imprimatur,  
Ja. Cranford. April 4. 1646.   

THE BURNING-BUSH not Consumed OR, The Fourth Part of the Parliamentarie-Chronicle.  
ABOUT the later and of the Month of July, 1644. the Reader may be pleased to remember that we lest the Affairs of the Kingdom in a prosperous posture, and Victorious condition for the Parliament, both in the Northern parts of the Land, after the most memorable and renowned Victory at M●●stone-Moore, 
A Summary relation of the state of the Kingdom at the Conclusion of the third pa●● of this Parliamentary-Chronicle.  near York, together with the surrendering up of that great City itself, into the power and possession of the Parliament; and the Earl of Manchesters' most successful advance Southward, after his departure from York, with his conquering Army: As also in the Western-parts of the Kingdom, where the Lord had marveilously blessed the proceedings four most noble Lord General, his Excellency ●he Earl of Essex, both in relieving and securing of Li●●, Plymouth, and other straitened Towns in the West, and in the reducing of Saltash, Causam, S●ellum Greenvills house, Mount-Stamford, Plimpton, Barnstable, Dartmouth, and War●ham, with many other strong Holds and Towns in those parts.  
Now, therefore, having (by the good providence of God) opportunity 〈…〉 so happily 〈…〉 famous History of the Parliaments most 〈◊〉 and inevitably necessitated proceedings, and managing of affairs over the whole Kingdom, for the public safety and subsistence thereof, against the destructive designs of the pornicious and viperous Adversaries thereof, Atheists, Papists, Prelates, and besotted, yea bewitched Malignants: I shall now, I say, by God's gracious assistance and the Readers constant candour and Christian patience, proceed to a Fourth part of this our Parliamentarie-Chronicle, which, 
Varietas, in omnibus delecta●.  for Varieties sake (which in all things and actions adds delight and content) I have termed or Entitled, The Burning Bush not Consumed. To which admirable-wonder, shown by God himself to Moses, 
The Title of this fourth Part of our Parliamentary Chronicle, justified.  Exod. 3. 2, 3. etc. I doubt not but we shall make a most full and fit resemblance and allusion, in the admirable providential passages of this ensuing History. For▪ as the Angel of the Lord, or, as some, the Lord Christ himself, appearing unto Moses in a flame of fire in the midst of a Bush which Burned and was not consumed, called unto Moses, (who voluntarily turning toward it, expressed his desire to see this strange sight, how it came to pass, that the Bush, so, burning was not consumed) to draw near unto it, and to put off his shoes from his feet, in regard of the place of God's presence. So, I shall now earnestly desire the godly Reader (in the sight and 〈◊〉 of this most admirable and renowned History of the Burning estate of our ●ottering State and Kingdom, 
England the Burning-Bush not consumed.  all on fire with intestine furious flames of threatened ruin and confusion, yet, to this day, even miraculously preserved, by the All-saving presence of the Lords mighty protection and preservation, dwelling in the midst of it, whereby it is not (nor hath been, long ere this, as otherwise it had been) utterly consumed and turned into ashes of desolation and destruction. I shall now therefore, I say, desire the godly Reader, to put off the shoes of prejudicacy and sinister construction, and so to draw near, and seriously to peruse and take special notice of these miracles of mercy and divine providence, with the 〈◊〉 (but 〈◊〉) 〈◊〉 of Christian candour and singleness of heart and affection, and seeing them, greatly and graciously to admire and adore the infinite riches of the free grace and goodness of Him, that thus dwelled in the Bush, for it's so rare and unspeakable preservation.  

August. 1644.  And thus, now, let us accordingly come near to behold this Wonder; And for the first part and apparition thereof which presents itself to our eyes and understanding, and wherewith I shall begin this Month of mighty and even miraculous preservations, in this Burning Bush of our present Parliaments great affairs, and necessitated Arms and negotiations, shall be of that most famous, faithful, active, and successful Commander, Colonel massy: Who about the beginning of this Month of August 1644. by his own Letter to the Speaker of the House of Commons in Parliament, certified us of a very brave defeat which he had given to the King's fiery Furies, and Cosmorant-like devourers, the Cavaliers under the command of Colonel Mynne, which for the Readers better satisfaction, I shall here insert, verbatim, as it was Printed and published by authority of Parliament, August 6. 1644.  
To the Honourable William Lenthall Esquire, Speaker to the Honourable House of Commons.  
SIR,  
KNowing the affairs of the Parliament so many and so weighty that their time is precious, 
Colonel Massies Letter to the Speaker of the House of Commons in Parliament.  and therefore a tedious relation not so suitable to them, having by this Post more fully related in my Letter unto the Lords and Gentlemen of the Committee of both Kingdoms; it being their command I at all times should so do. I shall entreat you to excuse me unto them at this time, who shall suddenly, God willing, inform and render unto them, a more perfect account of both the late following passages both of God's displeasure, yet afterward Mercy unto us. That upon Friday last, Colonel General Mynne being entered into our parts with a considerable strength both of Horse and Foot, I had appointed a Party both of Horse and Foot, to March with me to have met with the enemy, who was within three or four miles of our Garrison, plundering and spoiling the Country. Having therefore, given order to Major Hammond, my Major of Horse, to draw out the Horse, and Major Grace, my Lord Stamford's Major, to draw out the Foot, both having been with me for orders therein; & they meeting in my lodging near the door, 
A branch of the Bush, here, on fire; but not burned.  it so fell out, that through some exceptions of Major Grace, taken at Major Hammond, at a Council of War, they entering into the street, upon departure from me, upon a blow given by Major Grace to Major Hamm●id, they drew their swords upon each other, where and at which time Major Grace received his death's wound, whereupon our Foot Soldiers fell into a high discontent and quarrel; which, notwithstanding it pleased the Lord so to appease that I presumed to go forward with my Design and to march on. And the next day in the morning we met with the enemy at Kidmarl●y, entered fight with them, when by God's great hand of mercy to us, we slew their General Mynne, 
General Mynne slain, & a brave Victory obtained.  with some other Officers, and about an hundred Soldiers, and took prisoners of them, one Lieutenant Colonel Passey, Major John Buller, seven Captains, three Lieutenants, five Ensigns, and twelve Sergeants with other Officers and men of note, and of common Soldiers about three hundred; the rest of the enemy fled and escaped, some to Lidbury, whither our Horse pursued them: But by reason of another body of strength come from Worcester, of about two hundred Horse, and five hundred Foot, coming and advancing in our sight, purposing to have joined with Colonel Mynne, we thought it more safe to gather up our straggling pursuers, and make our march back to Ridmarly with safety, and to make good our obtained Victory, and there to expect the advancing enemy; rather than presumptuously to hazard ourselves and the rest, in seeking the enemy with our tired Horse, and wearied Foot, and so they retreated to Lidbury, and we to Gloucester, where we have much cause to magnify the Almighty's goodness to us, and to sing incessant praises to him for the same. Our loss was, only, that Colonel Harley was shot in his left arm, but no danger to his life or health, praised be God; and who like a most gallant and valiant Gentleman indeed, behaved himself in this fight; and the rest also did like very brave men; Two or three of our Soldiers were slain, but, praised be the Lord, not one Officer, and not passing four or fire more wounded. Thus much at present, I thought it my duty to signify from myself, whose faithfulness shall ever be manifest in the Parliaments Service and Cause, being unto Yourself, Sir, a most thankful acknowledger of your many favours, and  
Your most humble Servant, Edward massy.  
ABout the eighth of this instant August also came credible information by Letters to London from We●, that that most valiant, loyal and active Commander, Colonel Mition, Governor of Oswestre, and valiant and faithful Sir Thomas Middleton, (to lessen our danger of Prince Roberts going Westward against the Lord General) joining together with about three hundred Horse and four hundred Foot, 
A brave defeat given to the enemy at Welchpool, in Mountgomery shire.  marched from thence, to Welsh pool in Montgomery, in Wales, two long miles distant, at which place, that bold and bloody Prince of Plunderers, his own Regiment of Horse were quartered, and where they suddenly falling on his sleepy and secure Cavaliers, early in the morning, they killed rupert's own Cornet, who refused quarter which was proffered him, took so many Horse that they mounted most of their Foot home again, 
The prize and prisoners taken.  even above three hundred; they also took about an hundred Prisoners, besides three Captains, three Cornets, three Quartermasters, and divers other Officers, with much Arms and Baggage: But Sir Thomas Dallison, (brother to Popish Dallison the Lawyer) who commanded those Horse, had the unfortunate happiness to scape away, 
The shrewd straight that Sir Thomas Dallison was put unto.  and for haste was fain to run away only in his shirt, and left his breeches behind him (such a straight he was put unto) wherein was found a Letter to Prince Robber, which he intended that morning to have sent to his impious Highness.  
Much also about the same time came certain information by Letters out of the West to London, that Colonel Sydenham that valiant and loyal Commander in Arms, assisted with that much honoured and worthy Gentleman, 
The Town of Wareham yielded to Colonel Sydenham.  Sir Anthony Ashley-Cooper, Knight and Baronet, having some time lain before Wareham, a strong Garrison Town of the Enemies, about four miles from Pool; Now at length gave a fierce assault upon the Town, had gained the outworks, and that the Enemy sent a Drum for a Parley, which being granted, a respite for an answer was desired by the Town, till next morning, but this would not be yielded to, nor for any longer time than one hour: whereupon the Town of Wareham (upon Articles of fair agreement) was surrendered unto them, and the one thousand two hundred Horse and Foot which lay before it, was immediately designed to march further Westward to Colonel Middleton. 
A Letter from the Lord of Inchiquin out of Ireland occasioned the speedy yielding of this Town.  Now here also I must farther inform the Reader, that this strong Town was especially so soon surrendered by reason of a Letter sent from the Lord of Inchiquin out of Ireland to his brother, Lieutenant Colonel O Brian, than Governor of Wareham, in his said brother's absence, in which Letter the said Lord of Inchiquin had declared. That his resolution wa● to stand firm to the Parliament, and to live and die in the defence of their Cause, which ●ee now most clearly saw was in the right, and that the King's party bade merely abused them all, and sought the certain subversion of (the true) Br●testant Religion, both in England and in Ireland, and therefore desired him that he would seriously consider of the same, and speedily surrender the Town of Wareham to the use of the Parliament. Which Letter being read to the Soldiers in the Town, they were all, for the most part, willing to have the Town surrendered, only some few Irish Rebels were averse, upon whose obstinate denial, they were presently dispatched out of the way, and cut off by the other Soldiers, in part of requital of the Protestant blood, which they and their barbarous and bloody brethren had shed in Ireland; And the said Lieutenant Colonel and the rest of his Soldiers presently declared themselves for the Parliament; and he also prevailed so far with his Soldiers that five hundred of them took the Covenant, and were willing to be shipped away for Munster in Ireland, to assist his brother, the foresaid Lord of Inchiquin, and the other Parliament Forces in the said Province, against the Irish Rebels.  
And about the tenth of this instant, Letters out of Staffordshire advertised, that Bagot, the Governor of Litchfield, had caused twelve of his bravest Horses to be breathed and rid abroad some few miles, 
Twelve brave Horses surprised by the Garrison of Stafford.  to take the fresh air, forsooth; which being so abroad, they were all suddenly surprised and snapped up, by a party of about twenty Horse of the Garrison of Stafford, who had been scou●ing abroad, upon some discovery, and were informed thereof, and got between them and home, and took them all, and safely carried them away with them; which said twelve Horses were of that value and estimation with the Governor, that be offered a thousand pound to have had them again, but could not.  
About the sixteenth of this instant August, we also received a perfect and faithfully satisfying relation of the certainty of the thrice noble and renowned Earl of Manchesters' victorious proceedings, 
The Noble Earl of manchester's advance from York.  and farther advance in those Northern parts from Dorcaster (after that most famous Victory at Marston-Moor, 〈◊〉 York, which the Lord of Hosts gave us) testified under the hand, and by the Letter of that Reverend and truly pious Gentleman, Mr. Goods, Chaplain to the said Noble Earl, which 〈◊〉 sent to his reverend and religious brother-Minister and fellow 〈◊〉 in to the said Earl, Mr. Sim●on Ash, then in London. 〈◊〉 whereof I have been ●●tracted, which was, briefly, this: That the most Noble and Victorious Earl of Manchester being upon his advance (according to order and agreement between the three renowned Generals at 〈◊〉) from Doncaster and Blyth, they c●me to Wors●p about eight miles from Blyth. At which time of his Lordships being there, Welbeck (the Earl of Newcastles own dwellinghouse, wherein was a strong Garrison, 
Welbeck House taken by the Earl of Manchester.  and where most of the Gentry of those parts of that County had laid up their Plate and 〈◊〉 goods) having been summoned and besieged some days before, by his Lordship's forces, was now surrendered to them upon composition and Articles of Agreement; And whereas all the Soldiers in it ●ad liberty to march away with their Arms and one price of Ordnance, whither they pleased, there were not above thirty men of two hundred, who took away any Arms, but rather desired that they might depart peaceably to their own homes; only there was a broken Troop of Horse which went from thence with the foresaid thirty foot unto Bever-castle. This place was taken without any great noise, nothing appearing there but friendship and civility when the House was surrendered. Here we took eight or nine great pieces of Ordnance, some bigget, some lesser, with good store of M●●ch, Bullet, and two hundred Muskets. The keeping of this House was committed to the care of Colonel Tiber●ay, a Commander of Nottingham Garrison, because the House is in Nottinghamshire. There were left therein the marquis of Newcastles three Daughters, the Lord widdrington's children, with others into very peaceable manner, without any great disturbance to themselves or their families there. After this, this noble and victorious General, the virtuous and valorous Earl of Manchester advanced farther, and sent out a party of his Army (consisting of 〈◊〉 thousand two hundred Foot and a Regiment of Horse, commanded by major-general Grawford, and Colonel Pickering, with three of their biggest pieces of Ordnance) to take 〈…〉, a strong hold in Yorkshire, wherein were a Troop of Horse and two hundred foot▪ strongly fortified with abroad and deep Tre●● of eighteen foot deep, 
Sheffeild-castle taken.  and water in it, a strong 〈◊〉 work 〈◊〉 will round of two yards thick, eight 〈◊〉 of Iron Ordnance and two Morter-peices. Our forces being come nee●●●his Castle, s●nt them three 〈…〉 which did 〈…〉 after which they sent 〈…〉 to the Castle, who shot 〈…〉 at the 〈◊〉, two of which shots came very near and hardly missed him, 
The manner of assaulting the Castle.  and they flourishing their Swords cried out they would have no other parley: Where upon ours advanced into the Town, and there quartered that night, in which night and next day they raised two batteries within threescore yards of the Enemy's outworks, whereon our Ordnance fell to play upon them, and did as much execution on the walls as pieces of their bigness could do, the greatest being but a Demiculverin, and after about four and twenty hours playing and plying thus with their Ordnance, and finding it would protract too much time to lie thus battering with their pieces, they resolved to send to my Lord Fairfax for the Queen's pocket-pistall and a whole Culverin, which accordingly were soon brought thither and presently mounted, and the next morning betimes, after their coming, those three began to play, which did very great execution upon one side of the Castle, and brought the strong walls thereof down into the trenches and made a perfect breach; And the noble major-general having prepared all things in a readiness for storming the Castle, both Faggots, Ladders, and other accommodations thereunto digested the form of storming by a Council of War it was resolved to send another Summons to the Castle which produced a present Treaty between three Gentlemen sent out of the Castle, and three like men of our party, who speedily concluded the surrender of the Castle upon fair Articles. We took in this Castle four hundred Arms, 
The prize taken in the Castle.  besides the great Guns aforementioned, twelve barrels of Powder, much Match, twenty tuns of great Iron-shot, about four hundred pounds worth of Corn, Beef, Bacon, Cheese, and other provisions, all which and many other things (except an hundred Musket's and a Morterpeice, 
The Country gave my Lords Soldiers 500 pound to drink for their good Service.  which were brought away) were left in the Castle for supply thereof, the Country thereabout giving my Lords Soldiers five hundred pound among them for 〈◊〉 good service against this place.  
Shortly after this the noble major-general, having left Colonel Bright, a Commander of my Lord Fairfaxes, and a party of Foot in the Castle, by order from the most noble Earl of Manchestor, advanced toward B●wzar, alias, 〈…〉, about eight miles from Sheffeild, 
Boulsover-castle also yielded to the Earl of Manchester.  it being another strong House of marquis Newcastles in Derby shire, which was well man●●d with Soldiers, and strengthened with great Guns, one whereof carried eighteen pound bullet, others nine pound, and it had strong works about it, yet this Castle also upon summons, was soon surrendered up to my Lords Forces, upon fair and moderate Articles granted to them. 
The prize taken in this Castle.  It pleased God to give us in this Castle of Boulsover, an hundred and twenty Muskets, besides Pikes, Halberds, etc. Also one Iron Drake, some leaden bullets, two Morter-peices, some other Drakes, nine barrels of powder, with a proportion of Match, some Victuals for our Soldiers, and some plunder. Immediately also after this, 
Staley-House also taken.  they all marched to Staley-House, which was strongly fortified, but upon our Armies advance to it, it was soon surrendered also, upon Articles of agreement, and in it we had twelve pieces of Ordnance, two hundred and thirty Muskets, an hundred and fifty Pikes; And Mr. John Fretchwell (who had long held the House fortified with strong Works, for the service of the King) being then convinced of the goodness of our cause, did very freely and voluntarily render to the major-general all the Arms aforesaid, 
Wingfleld-Mannour besieged by Derby forces  with much other Ammunition. From hence, shortly after, they also advanced to Wingfeild-Mannour, about eight miles distant, which House had been long besieged by Derby Forces, but was not, at this time, taken, nor likely to be, without more assistance, which also upon the advance of our Forces, God delivered into our hands, as in its due and proper place, we shall make more particular mention thereof; and thereby most of the Northern parts were cleared, as far as Newark, save only Pomfret-castle, and some few other strong Houses or Holds beyond York. In all which the Lord our God made this most Noble and renowned Earl of Manchester, a most victorious and glorious instrument.  
About the eighteenth of this instant, came certain intelligence out of the West, that in the time of the Lord Generals unhappy enclosure in heathenish (I had almost said hellish) Cornwall, by the King's Forces, who also at that time were in no little straits for want of provision for his Army also, and was therefore forced to send into Sommersetshire for supplies therein; whereof Lieutenant General Middleton watchfully having gotten intelligence, 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy by Colonel Middleten.  and that there were divers Carriages and Wagons laden with necessaries for the King gotten together: He very seasonably marched thither and met with them, valiantly encountered their convoy, slew and took about an hundred and forty Horse, and many or most of the Carriages. After which he marched farther toward Sherbor●, and sending our parties for intelligence, was certainly informed that Sir Francis Dorrington, Sir William Courtney, and others; in all about a thousand Horse and Dragoones were at Lamport: Whereupon he advanced with a party of five hundred Horse and Dragoones to Pederton, where the enemy was in readiness to receive him, at his coming. And being now in sight of each other, Major Ennis and Major Car charged them most gallantly, 
Another gallant Victory obtained by Colonel Middleton.  being seconded by Colonel Middleton, who at the very first encounter Routed the Enemy's Horse and Dragoones (though their Dragoones had lined the Hedges) and pursued them within half a mile of Bridgewater. In which conflict he took prisoners, one Major, three Captains, one Lieutenant, two Cornets, two Quarter-masters, forty common Soldiers, and fourscore Horses, and killed fifty upon the place; on our side Major Car was taken prisoner, and only scure common Soldiers more; and here also ours took the Enemy's Carriages.  
And about the twentieth of this instant August, we received farther intelligence out of the West, of some more good service done by this foresaid Lieutenant General Middleton since his so routing of Sir Francis Dorrington, as aforesaid, namely, that he fell upon the Enemies with a party of three hundred Horse and a hundred Dragoones at Farringdon, near Bristol, where he also most bravely dispersed the Enemy and took these prisoners following, 
A third brave de●eat given to the Enemy, by Col. Middleton.  viz. Colonel Edward Bisse, four Captains, five Leivtenants, one Cornet, one Quartermaster, a Chaplain of their Army, and a Chirurgeon, eight and thirty Troopers, two Gentlemen Troopers, twelve Foot Soldiers, three barrels of powder, with a good quantity of Match and Ball, together with an hundred Horse.  
Much also about the same time we were for certain advertised out of Lancashire, that a party of Prince Robbers forces, being about three hundred of them, whom he left in that County, and were going to fortify Wiggen, 
Sir John Meldrum defeats the Enemy in Lancashire.  whereof Sir John Meldrum (Commander in chief in that County) having certain intelligence, he sent a considerable party to them, who surprised them all, with all their Arms and Ammunition, and so also utterly frustrated their intended design.  
August the two and twentieth, 〈◊〉 credible information by Letters out of Lancas. to London, that the Lord Ogleby, a Scotch incendiary fell upon Colonel Doddington, near Preston in Loncashire, as he was marching out of Yorkshire to Sir John Meldrum then in Lancashire: Colonel Doddington, at the first, had the worst, but young Colonel Shuttleworth, who indeed deserved to be an elder brother for his activity and very gallant performances in this Service, 
Colonel Doddington takes the Lord Ogleby prisoner.  came in timely to the relief of that valiant Gentleman Colonel Doddington, and put the Enemy, consisting of four hundred Horse, to a total Rout, slew many on the place, and took many prisoners, among whom were the Lord Ogleby himself: Colonel Mynne, and Lieutenant Colonel Huddlestone, a man of power and much repute in Cumberland; and divers other persons of quality, Scottish Commanders and Gentlemen, were taken prisoners; they also took threescore Horse with their Riders: and a party of these also endeavouring to get to Lathamhouse, as a place of retreat, was surprised by our Forces which lay before Lathamhouse, and every man of them taken prisoners.  
Much also about the same time came certain and unquestionable intelligence that the Cavaliers were sound cudgeled in Cheshire; for, Colonel Marrow, a second Nimrod of those parts, and indeed a stout Soldier and brave Commander, issuing out of the City of Chester, 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy by Sir William Brereton.  with about fourescors or an hundred Horse, was received by a party of that most renowned and Religious Commander, and loyal Patriot, Sir William Breretons, (near Crowton-House, where we kept a Garrison) who most bravely routed the Colonel, 
Colonel Marrow slain.  and in the conflict wounded him mortally, of which wounds he died the very next day in Chester; at which time Sir William took many prisoners. And Prince Robber, to revenge the death of Colonel Marrow, advanced next day with two of his best Regiments of Horse to beat back Sir William Breretons Forces, but, 
Prince Robber with two Regiments of horse defeated.  the Robber was routed and about four hundred of his men slain on the place, and taken prisoners; In which conflict, valiant and undaunted Captain Zanchie, who commanded Sir Williams own Troop, most gallantly pursued the enemy, within pistol-shot of the walls of Chester, and valiant Lieutenant Colonel Jones performed his part in this conflict with no less valour and gallantry; and a Corporal of Sir William Breretons Troop, by name John Cooper, seeing a most brave Horse, which the Enemy could not get into the Church in Tarvin Town (where the fight was very hot and furious) but was fain to be held by the bridle, 
The valiant performances of Sir William Breretons forces in the fight at Tarvin.  by one of the Enemies under the Church wall, this brave spirited Corporal adventured to fetch the Horse away, but they fired so fast out of the Church upon him, that he was forced twice to retreat, but he adventured the third time, pistolled the enemy and so brought away the Horse, which was valued to be worth, at least, fourscore pound.  
And about the same time, 
Another most brave defeat given to the Enemy by Sir John Meld●um, at Ormskirk.  the renowned Major General of Lancas. Sir John Meldrum having notice of the Enemies marching toward Ormskirk, made haste after them, overtook them on Tuesday the twentieth of August, in the Evening, upon a Moor near unto Ormskirk, where they stood in Battalia, and upon the first charge of our Musketeers, which were under the command of Colonel Booth, they all fled, whereupon our Horse bravely fell upon them and totally routed them, in the pursuit of whom, they took about eight hundred Horse (some Letters report a thousand) and three hundred prisoners; 
800 Horse, and 300 prisoners taken.  but by reason of the night coming so fast upon them they could not improve the Victory, as otherwise they might have done; but the Lord Byron, and the Lord Mollenaux were forced to leave their Horses in the flight, and to hide themselves in a Cornfield, some of the special prisoners then taken, were Colonel Sir James Prestwich, Lieutenant Colonel Cottingham, Captain James Anderton, with five or six Captains more, six or seven Leivtenants, four Cornets, one Quartermaster, eight or ten Gentlemen of worth and quality, two Priests or malignant Ministers, and as I said before, above two hundred and fifty common Soldiers.  
And here now, give me leave, good Reader, to give thee this necessary note or observation upon some of the forepast premises, especially touching Gods very gracious dealing with his much menaced and molested Servants in Lanoashire and Cheshire, 
A brief note, how the Lord prospered our proceedings against bloody Prince Robber, in and about Lancashire.  and those parts, and his most just and revenging hand of displeasure upon that bold and bloody Prince Robber, and his great strength of Horse, wherein he much boasted and bolstered up his proud hopes of subduing or ruinating those Counties: For, in a very short space it was sorely and suddenly abated and decreased by the great hand of God towards us. As first, a● Welsh-pool (as I have forementioned) there were taken by Sir Thomas Middleton, and Colonel Mitton, with the assistance of the Forces of Cheshire, three hundred forty six Horses of rupert's own Regiment; and within a seven-night after that, there were taken by Colonel Ashton at Holland in Lancashire two hundred Horse; At Preston also in Lancashire, presently after, at least threescore Horse, and at this last mentioned brave skirmish by the Lancashire Forces, at Ormskirk in Lancashire, about nine hundred Horse, and by Sir William Brereton, at Tarvin, 
Almost 2000 of rupert's Horse taken by ours besides prisoners.  (as was fore-specified) at least three hundred Horse; which, in all, make up, about one thousand eight hundred Horse, besides the prisoners, then, taken with them.  
And about the four and twentieth of this instant August, I received a summary Relation of the valiant actions of that loyal and active brave Commander Colonel Fox, 
A brief relation of some active and victorious performances of Colonel Fox.  (so much inveighed against by that base Pamphleter Aulicus, the King's Liar in chief, as witty Britanicus rightly titles him) which I thought not sit to let slip, or to sleep in oblivion, which were as followeth. Upon this vigilant Commanders discovering of the quartering of Worcester forces in Vpon-Warren, some twelve miles from his Garrison, he went forth with a party of Horse and took, in their quarters, Lieutenant Colonel Dudley, (as appeared by a Commission found in his pocket) Captain Milward, 
A prize taken at Vpton-Warren.  Lieutenant Newberry, Quartermaster Dod, two Corporals, ten other Soldiers, and twenty Horse; and with these he also brought away a drove of Cattle from the Earl of Shrewsbury, and a little after he took Captain Knight in his Quarter, at Stoke, near Bromsgrave. And not long after upon intelligence that the Commission of Array sat in execution thereof at Ombersley, four miles from Worcester, and seventeen miles from Egherson Garrison, he desired my Lord of Denbighs forces to join with him for their apprehension, which was accordingly attempted, where they took forty prisoners, divers of them being men of note, 
Another brave prize taken by Colonel Fox.  an hundred and thirty brave Horses, an hundred and fifty Beasts, but most of the Commissioners very hardly escaped, by reason of some delays of the Earls forces, who stayed a little too long upon some other design near Worcester, contrary to the Colonels direction and desire; yet notwithstanding by reason of the Colonels and his cubs pursuit after them over the River Severn, where they were enforced to swim, he recovered divers excellent Horse and Arms, and so returned with this prize, in safety.  
And upon the twentyeth of this instant, 
A third prize also taken by Colonel Foxes Forces. What a terror Colonel Fox was to all his enemies about him.  the said valiant and vigilant Colonel having intelligence of some Cavaliers to lie in Bromsgrove, he sent forth a party of Horse under the command of Captain Tadman, and Captain Johnson, who surprised, in the place, Captain Barnsley and all his Soldiers, he being a Gentleman of note and quality and a W●●●ster Captain. And thus, this noble Colonel did so hunt and fright the Cavaliers in all those parts, that scarcely one of them were heard of in the Country thereabout, but he presently pulled them into his den, nor durst any enemy come out of Worcester to oppose his proceedings, insomuch as that the greatest Malignants and Papists about him were forced to fly or make their peace with him.  
About the four and twentieth also of this instant August, we were certainly informed by Letters out of Darbyshire, that whereas that most active and valiant Commander and loyal Patriot of his Country, 
Wink field Manor taken by Sir Joh. Gell  Sir John Gell, had long time lain before Wink field-mannour, the Sanctuary of all the Papists and Delinquents of that County, he was now (by the brave assistance of the most noble Earl of Manchesters' forces) become Master of it, it being now at last surrendered up into his possession, on fair terms and Articles of agreement, with all the Arms and Ammunition therein, except only what the Cavaleirian Commanders carried away with them for their own particular uses, which were only, each Commander his Sword and Pistol. There were in the House above there hundred Soldiers, and fourteen pieces of Ordnance, and it was a House very strongly fortified and of no small concernment to us in the taking of it. And now Sir John Gell was, by God's mercy, as good as his word, who had vowed he would never leave the said siege till (if God so pleased) he had the place; and brave Colonel Crawford, with part of the Earl of Manchesters' forces, came (as I touched before) seasonably to his assistance, and was a great help unto him in the said business.  
And about the six and twentieth of August, our most pious, prudent and vigilant Parliament, published an Ordinance of Parliament, wherein it was Ordered that the Counties of Wilts, 
An Ordinance of Parliament for the Association of the Western Counties.  Somerset, Devon, Dorset, and Cornwall, with the Cities of Bristol and Excester, as also the Town and County of Pool, be Associated for their mutual Defence against the Cavalierian Adversary, and that the Committees nominated in the Ordinance of Parliament, of the first of July, shall put in execution the said Ordinance, in the Counties aforementioned, and that all the Colonels, Lieutenant Colonels, Captains and other Officers, are also to Associate themselves, and with the well-affected of the said Counties to aid and succour one another; and giving thereby full power and Authority to the said Committees to put in execution the Ordinance for Voluntary Loans and Contributions to the Parliament, for raising of moneys and Forces, for the suppression of all Malignant forces against the Parliament. It was thereby also Ordered that the Earl of Northumberland, the Earl of Pembroke, and the Earl of Salisbury, the Lord Roberts, and the Lord Bruce, with the Knights, Citizens, and Burgesses of the said Counties, in the House of Parliament, have power to nominate and appoint all Colonels, Lieutenant Colonels, Sergeant Majors both of Horse and Foot, to Command the Forces so raised in the Association, and the Lord General, or such as shall from time to time command in Chief, shall grant Commissions to them accordingly.  
Much also about this time, viz. the six and twentieth of this instant August we received Letters from the Western parts of the kingdom, that his Majesties, and his Excellency's headquarters were very near to one another, and that four hundred of his Majesty's Horse had cast themselves into three divisions, and advancing near my Lord General's Quarters, and with disdainful words reproaching them and challenging them to fight; the brave young Gentleman Major Archibald Stranghan quickly apprehending the same and not able to endure, 
A brave & most Heroic exploit of Sergeant Major Stranghan against the Enemy in the West.  desired that he might receive so much honour from his Excellency as but to have Commission to charge them with an hundred Horse, with which force (though far less in number, than the Enemies) he doubted not (he said) but, by God's assistance, to return victorious. This gallant motion of the young Gentleman being much applauded and well entertained, he received the first impression of the Enemy without moving from the place at all, until the Enemy being come nearer and almost breast to breast, he fired upon them, at once, with so much fury and so good success that about twenty of them were observed to fall together, on which the rest began to fly; whereupon finding his opportunity and pursuing it, he was charged on by the second division, and received them with such undaunted Spirits and magnanimity with his pistols, that they also, following the example of the former, presently began to fly away confusedly, not being able to endure the heat of this hot charge and fierce tempest. After this also his pistols being discharged, he most unweariedly fallen in pellmell upon the Enemies last Division with the Sword, and soon also enforced them to an ignominious flight unto the body of their Army, which seeing the disorder of the Horse, began to disband and fly themselves. His Majesty was then not far off in the Field, and was a sad spectator of the Tragedy of his men: And it was verily believed, that had this valiant Scot been suddenly seconded to pursue home his Victory, he had taken his Majesty in the Field and totally routed his Army, so great and general was the distraction, that at that present they were in. For this brave service his Excellency rewarded the victorious Major with many thanks and appellations of honour, and with a Horse esteemed to be worth an hundred pound.  
And about the seven and twentieth of this instant August, it was for certain informed by Letters from Sir William Brereton to the Parliament, that there being a great strength of the Enemy at Malpasse, with intention to march into Wales after that bold and bloody Prince Robber; 
A most brave defeat given to the Enemy at Malpasse, by Sir William Breretons Forces.  Sir William Brereton sent out a party of Horse and Foot, consisting of about eight hundred, under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Jones. The Enemy having notice of the said Party drew out all their Horse and Dragoones in Battalia, consisting of about two thousand, and placed their Musketeers in hedges and places of advantage: 
The Enemy was about 2000 strong, we but 800.  Notwithstanding Lieutenant Colonel Jones with his Troop did most gallantly charge through two Divisions of the Enemy, did great execution on them, and returned without the loss of a man, himself only shot into the thigh, the rest of the Troops (there being but four Troops in all) came up, and some of the Foot after them, and played their parts most bravely, 
The Enemy is routed. The prize and prisoners taken  and with Lieutenant Colonel Jones gave another fierce charge upon the Enemy, quite routed them, some of them flying into Wales, others into Chester, & ours took about an hundred and forty Horse and many prisoners, the chief whereof were these; Major Maxie, (or, Murrey) Major to Sir Charles Lucas; Major Cromwell, Major to the Duke of York's Regiment; Mayor Crathorn a Papist; Captain Clavering or other to the late Colonel Clavering: And the Commanders slain in this brave conflict, 
Commanders slain.  were, Colonel Baines, Colonel Conyers, Major Heskith; another Major buried at Chester, and another Major buried at Malpasse; One Lieutenant Colonel slain, but not (then) known who he was; Captain Harris, and Sir Marmaduke Langdale, the Commander in chief desperately wounded and carried to Chester for cure. 
Common soldiers slain.  There were also slain upon the place, and in the flight about an hundred; and those that fled to Chester were, with much affront, kept out of the gates, and not suffered of a long time, to get in; as some that came out of Chester, shortly after, informed us.  
About the eight and twentieth of this instant August we were credibly informed by Letters out of the West, and in specially by the most noble Lord General his Excellencies own Letter to the Parliament, from Lestithiell, 
A most perfidious plot, and dangerous Design to have blown up our Magazine, and destroyed our Army at Lestithiell in Cornwall.  that the perfidions Enemy (who dare not compass their base aims and designs, in an open, fair, and honourable way, by battle, though double in number) had about this time so managed their base and treacherous plot, that into two close Wagons, wherein was a Magazine of at least 60 barrels of Gunpowder, they had privily conveyed two notable Engines of War, which should have blown up all the powder; and at the time, when the enemy thought to have effected the design, they had drawn up their whole body of their Army toward that part of his Excellency's Army, 
Two wildfire Engines conveyed into our close wagons, where were 60 barrels of powder.  expecting the blow, upon which they intended to fall most fiercely on the Lord General's Forces; but it most graciously pleased the Lord, that one of the said Engines, to the end whereof a lighted match was fastened, was burnt to the very neck of the Engine (whereat it was to give fire to the wildfire in the Engine) but, 
The manner of the preservation described.  then, the coal went out of itself; the other match also in the other Engine, was burnt within an inch of the wildfire of that Engine, just at the time when by a Cooper it was seasonably and happily discovered before the dangerous blow was given, whereupon the Engines being taken out by the said Cooper and brought to my Lord General, 
The two Engines sent up to the Parliament, where they were publicly shown & seen.  which his Excellency, together with his Letter presently sent up to the Parliament, and was publicly showed to the Houses of Parliament, and as some that were there present said, it was just after that fashioned Engine, which his Majesty delivered with his own hands (being covered with red leather, as that was) to the party that made his Majesty believe that he would blow up the Magazine at Ailesbury, but as that, so this most base and treacherous Design of theirs was, by God's great mercy and good providence, happily prevented, and their wicked hopes thereby frustrated, and all they got thereby was shame and infamy.  
And thus, now, I hope (good Reader) thou hast fully and clearly seen (in the whole progress of this Month's contemplation of God's wonderful protection and preservation of his Church and Children) the great and amazing wonder of the World, in these our Mosean days, 
The Burning-Bush no● consumed.  even, The Burning-Bush (the Church or Cause of God) not consumed, though enclosed with flames of wrath and rage, of the wicked and outrageous intestine enemies thereof, on every side, both by Sea and by Land, blowing the coals, and adding combustible fuel to the fire of their fury, and endeavouring to heat the furnace of their frantic rage and madness, yet seven times hotter and hotter; 
Dan. 3.  And yet Gods Three (yea 30 times three) most faithful and zealous Shadraches, Meshaches, and Abednego's, still preserved and kept safe in the midst of the fiercest and most furious conflagrations; and all this made most clear and manifest both in all the forementioned famous Victories obtained, and perfidious plots, and dangerous designs detected and prevented: And have we not then great cause, with holy Moses, both to put off the shoes of sin and transgression, and also to approach unto, and fix the feet of our affections on the ●oly ground of most grateful contemplation of this great wonder, and in sacred admiration thereof to break out into holy adoration of our great and good God, and with holy Moses to sing and say: 
Exod. 15. 11.  Who is like unto thee, O Lord, among the gods? Who is like unto thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, and doing wonders?  
BUT, 
September 1644.  now to go on in our next Months sacred and serious observation, of this foresaid wonder, still continuing all this next ensuing September. And herein I shall desire, in the first place briefly to show, or rather, to remember the Reader, how that about the beginning of this month of September, it pleased the Lord, again, to set his blessed Bush in the midst of a most dangerous devouring flame (to see to) and yet the Bush not Consumed; Even to suffer our prime Parliamentary-Army of the whole Kingdom, then under the Command of that most noble, 
Our formidable Parliamentary Army cooped up in Cornwall in the West, and in great danger, but most mightily preserved and delivered.  renowned, loyal, and most courageous Lord General, the Earl of Essex, to be brought into a strange strait, and most unhappy noose in a corner of Cornwall, in the West, one of the remotest parts of the Kingdom, (but by what mischievous means or improvidence, I know not) rendering that (at first) most formidable Army, most obnoxious to much danger and distress, of the numerously augmented forces of the most malicious and outrageous enemies thereof, who by the daily additional and increasing powers of the perfidious and atheistical Cornish and Devonshire men, had strangely and strongly cooped and hedged in that our most famous Army for divers weeks together in a nook or angle of that County of Cornwall, and no Reserve or considerable Relief, in so long time, coming to their aid and assistance; insomuch that the extraordinarily increasing wants in the Army, and the extraordinary and inevitably necessitated duty of his Excellency's Soldiers being so incessantly continued, and (as I touched before) the powers of the Enemy so daily increasing and growing big with rage and pride against them; they could not possibly any longer subsist without relief: Whereupon a Council of War being called, it was resolved (an absolute necessity lying on it) that the Horse of the Army should break through the enemy, and the Foot (alas, alas) should stand upon their own guard and Defence, 
Here was, indeed, the B●●ning Bush not Consumed.  till more aid (if by any means it could be procured) should be sent unto them; and thereupon 3000 Horse, under the command of that renowned Soldier and brave Commander Sir William Belfore, (the rest of the Horse remaining still with the foot) violently broke through the Enemy and most fiercely made good their retreat, notwithstanding all the power of the Enemy, and brought off with them several of the Enemy's Colours and slew many: And, (Probdolor, under correction of better judgement) why might not our whole Army together, both Horse and Foot, as safely and certainly, have come off fully, had that Council of War played Fair play above board?) So got to Sal●ash and Plymouth, with very little or no considerable loss in so desperate a Service.  
Now, thus, our Foot forces being left behind under the Command in chief of that most noble and ever to be renowned, virtuous and valorous Soldier and brave Commander Major General Skippon, (his Excellency the Lord General, and the Lord Roberts being also gone to Plymouth by Sea) and the Enemy choosing rather to bend their greatest power against the Foot, than in pursuit of the Horse, and having also resolved at a bloody Council of War (thinking the day their own, 
The King's cruel Council of War resolved to give no quarter, but to put all to the Sword.  and the birds to be all caught in the net) in a most cruel and merciless manner, to put them all to the Sword, and not to give Quarter to any, and likewise in pursuance hereof, they having taken about 30 of our Foot Soldiers, and put them all to the Sword, save only two that by God's good providence escaping, ran from them and acquainted the rest of the Foot forces with the sequel thereof: Hereupon brave Mayor General Ski●pon, 
Major General Skippons 〈◊〉, but brave speech & resolution to live ●● die with his Soldiers.  like a true Soldiers, indeed, made a gallant and courageous speech to his said Foot forces to this effect. That it would be more ●onour for th●● to die valiantly in the field, than to 〈◊〉 themselves b●fely or, ●owardly to the tyranny of so bloody and 〈◊〉 an 〈◊〉, professing himself, most cheerfully, there ready to live or di● with them; 〈◊〉, first; to sell their lives (by God's help) at 〈…〉 a rate 〈◊〉 ever Soldiers did. Whereupon they all, most unanimously and cheerfully resolving the same, fell upon the Enemy with such undaunted courage and resolution, being led up in person by so brave and Lion-like a Commander, who (to use his Excellencies own expression, in his Letter to the Parliament of him) fought like a Lion; and disdained that their brave Ordnance and Artillery should be gained from them, 
The fight begun.  at a lesser value than the hearts blood of many hundreds of their Enemies; which was so indeed, ere they parted, for they discharged their great pieces, divers times upon the Enemy, which did great execution and slew very many of them, whom they might see fall fast before them (and the King himself, being in fight thereof in the field) and still received the rest so gallantly, that the Enemy (instead of being absolute Victors) was at last enforced (though much against their former intentions) not only to give them Quarter, 
Not only quarter, but also fair conditions granted to our Soldiers.  but, farther also, to condescend to very honourable conditions and Articles on our Soldier's part; though, in the issue, the Enemy proved most perfidious (as their constant practice was) in violating of them all, and bespoiling and stripping them (ere they left them) of all they had (save only their lives) even taking f●om them their very clothes off their backs, 
The most perfidious disloyalty of the Enemy in violating all the conditions agreed on.  boots, stockings, and shoes from their legs and feet, and enforcing some of them to march stark naked, and bore footed, with only a base convoy of their perfidious Enemy's Horse, 
Here again the Burning-Bush not Consumed.  whom (being quite disarmed) they durst not resist. And though renowned Major General Skippon road back, and boldly and bravely complained to the King himself thereof, yet he could find no redress therein. But, howsoever let the judicious Reader here judge and say whether here was not a wonder, indeed, even no less than God's Burning-bush not consumed, considering what a furious & devouring flame was round about it, and whereinto it had been so strangely (yea and treacherously too as many feared) entrapped and cooped up, but, thus, as you have heard most admirably delivered and preserved from utter ruin and destruction, as was threatened and resolved, which therefore, is with extraordinary thankfulness to God to be beheld and looked upon, 
This deliverance of our Soldiers was a singular mer●y of the Lord.  and most justly to be enroled in the number of our singular great mercies, and deliverances of the Lord wrought for us; as whereby (notwithstanding the unhappy loss of so brave an Artillery and Arms of our Soldiers) yet, a wide door was, thus, left open unto us, in good measure to r●crute our Army again, considering that there is no competition or comparison to be made between the raising of men and getting of Arms, the former being known by experience to be very difficult, the other very easy to perform; And (which is also herein very considerable) the mercy was so much the greater, and the loss the less, in regard that his Excellency had taken far more Ordnances and Arms from the Enemy, but a little before in this his Western Expedition, than were now lost in this last disaster.  
Now as touching the matter and cause of this great miscarriage, though I do not, I dare not take upon me to discuss it, it having been, 
That this miscarriage of our Army, was a plain plot of treachery.  I hope, throughly examined by others, to whom it more properly appertained; yet give me leave, good Reader, to suspect still, that it was a plain piece of treachery to the State & Parliament, & honest & honourable Major Gen: Skippon, perceived it at last, (as it was reported) though too late, most evidently, and therefore (as it was credibly informed) smiting himself upon his breast, he said: 
Renowned Major General Skippon perceived this plot, but too late.  We are betrayed! we are betrayed! But, who the persons were, was not then so clear, yet some were known, and one of them ran to the King to secure himself; and Colonel Butler was sent up to London by his Excellency, and committed to the Tower of London, till he was examined about it. And it is the more easily to be believed to have been a mere piece of treachery against the noble Lord General, as being a thing plotted and contrived before he went into the West, 
A notable and most pregnant proof or ground of the knowledge of this disaster in the West to be a plot.  and that upon this ground, namely; That divers of the most knowing and active Royalists then among us at London, were heard, with much confidence, to say (before his Excellency went forth in this Expedition) that the Lord General would receive a blow in the West. In particular, a Gentleman, then, a prisoner in Warwick-castle, by name, Mr. E. Andrew's, the Son of Sir Eusebie Andrew's, who being among divers Gentlemen, at a Tavern in Warwick, said before them all, with imperious speeches, that he would be hanged if the Earl of Essex came safe back again out of the West; And told them withal, that they should see the King's Army flourish; with other words to this effect, as I had it by credible information. And this was presently after the Lord General was gone into the West, when he had a most gallant and stout Army, indeed, and such an one, as the King's Army durst not look in the face, nor was it probable, durst come so near it, as to behold their backparts. For, his Excellency's Army was then known to be a terror to the Enemy; for some of the chief of the King's Army, at the end of Newberry-battail (when they were carrying the body of the Earl of Ca●narvan into the Town) said, Damn me, Essex will never be beaten, and with fearful oaths were heard to swear, All the devils in hell could not beat him. But now to proceed.  
About the 4 of this instant September, 
Sir Thomas Middleton's ammunition safely conveyed unto Oswest●y from Wem, for the Welsh Affairs.  came certain information by Letters from Os●estry to London, that Sir Thomas Middleton's Ammunition was safely arrived from Wem to Oswestry, to the great sorrow of the Enemy, who some few days before (as was certified by Letters from Wem) issued out of Salop to Whittington, with at least 1200 foot and 400 horse to have intercepted it; But renowned Sir Thomas Middleton having intelligence thereof sent out a party from Oswest●●y to guard the Ammunition, which party discovering the Enemy, wheeled into the Rear, all the Horse being with the Ammunition, in the Van, and so fell upon them, killed five upon the place, took five prisoners, wounded many, and made the Enemy fly, but being to guard the Ammunition, they durst not leave their charge to follow them, so the Enemy wheeled back again from Frank ford-Hope near Elsmore, and so to Salop, and out Ammunition, of exceeding great concernment for the succeeding Welsh affairs, was (as I said) safely, thus, conveyed into Oswestry, ready there for the following work in Wales, where of more in its due place.  
About the 8 of this instant also came certain intelligence by Letters out of Staffordshire, of a brave exploit performed by that most valiant and brave Commander Colonel Rudgely in a most notable defeat which he gave unto the Enemy; the substance whereof we received from Letters thence to this effect. 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy by valiant Colonel Rudgeley.  We marched out of Stafford to Lynsell, and thence took from under the Walls, at least an 104 Oxen and Cows, and about 300 Horse; Then we marched to Litchfield, whence we brought away above an 160 Oxen and Cows and 60 Horse, and presently after news being brought us that the Enemy was plundering at Chartley, his Excellencies the Lord Generals own Lands, with an intent to drive away his cattle; whereupon our valiant Colonel, Col● Rudgel●y drew forth all those horses he had, and about an 180 foot, and marched thither, but they having broke open the stable door, and taken a choice Colt of my Lord Generals (which Colt was shot and killed by one of his Servants out of the house, as they led him away) they were gone thence before we could get thither, and got into Pen●h-Park to drive that; whereupon we marched to Vssiter and at Lacksley we heard that the Enemy was marched toward Bromble, so with those few horse which we had, we marched in haste after them, if possible to engage them, till our foot came up unto us, and near unto Bagots-Brom●ey, after 10 miles hard march, we fell upon their Rear, and upon the first charge took about 40 horse, and as many men and Arms, and pursued them to their main-body, which consisted of at least 500 good horse, but our horse not being above an 100 we were forced to retreat a little way, but presently rallyed again, which whilst we were doing, the Enemy planted an ambuscado, which upon our second charge, fired upon us, but we bravely beat the ambuscado up, and killed and took every man of those so planted, and all their arms and Horses, and kept the rest in play till our foot came up, and then they fell off from us, and we kept the field. On our part we had only one man slain, and they took six prisoners; but from them we took, a Sergeant Major, one Captain, one Lieutenant, two Quarter master●, three Corporals, and the rest Common Soldiers, in all 18. and killed about 30. took many Arms, and 50 Horse, and so returned safe with our said prize.  
Much also about the same time we had certain intelligence of some singular good service done immediately after the forementioned furnishment of Oswestry with Ammunition, by that most valiant and brave Commander, 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy, by Sir Tho. Middleton.  Sir Tho. Middleton, at or near about Mountgome●y-castle, the substance of which intelligence by a Letter, was this: That by God's gracious assistance, that noble Commander was advanced and came into Mountgomery, where he found the people all very willing and ready to receive him, and that Sir Thomas had summoned the Castle, and that his own Regiment fell, in that interim, upon New-Town, and had there taken Sir Thomas Gardiner, and his whole Troop of Horse, 28 prisoners, 36 barrels of powder, some store of match, two Horse Colours, one Quarter master; and since that, even immediately after came certain information unto us, that the said most noble and renowned Commander Sir Thomas Middleton, 
Mountgomery Castle taken by Sir Thomas Middleton.  having (as was forementioned) summoned the Castle of 〈◊〉, where the black Lord Horbert was, he, upon fair and honourable terms surrendered it without much contestation about it, although it be a Castle as strong as any Castle in the Kingdom whatsoever, or in the Principality of W●l●s, and of very great concernment for the happy reduction of all North-wales, to the Parliament, of which more in its proper place.  
About the 10 of this instant September, we had certain information by Letters from Wem, that the vigilant and active Committee there resident, having intelligence of the drawing out of the forces in Shrewsbury, toward Ludlow, (as was then conceived) but afterward they understood those forces marched toward Sir Thomas Middleton, they sent out under the Command of Lieutenant Colonel Rinking (a very good Soldier) a party of foot and horse to surprise Morton-Corbet-Castle, 
The manner of taking Morton-Corbet-Castle. by Wem Garrison.  and sent unto the Lord Calven to meet them with a party from Stoke, and upon a Saturday night about one or two of the clock they came before the Castle, every man being assigned the place where he should fall on. Now they being come thither, it being but about four miles from Wem, and they finding the People in great security, ordered the business thus: First, the Commander gave the Word, which was Will and Tom, with order that if any asked who they were, to answer, Will, and if the other answered not, Tom, they should give fire; this being done, he sent Drums at a fields distance from the house, with order to beat a march as soon as ever the assault began, which they did accordingly, and thereby made the Enemy think that there had been a great strength, when as, indeed, it was no such matter; Then presently the Lieutenant Colonel calling aloud to bring up such a Regiment to such a place, and such a Regiment to another place, (this much daunted the hearts of the Enemy at the hearing thereof) and then he sent some to discover the Centery, with an order to tell the Centery that they were friends, and to hold him in discourse until they had notice; which service was so well performed on all parts▪ that before the Sentinel knew who we were, our Ladders were mounted and we in possession of one of their works, and then the Enemy took the alarm, and our men plied the work most stoutly: The Lieutenant Colonel endeavoured with but ten men to have forced a little door, wherein not prevailing, he marched along over the tops of the works with but four men, and with these, fell upon them that were in another work, and forced them with one volley to betake them to the House, where, out of the windows and holes they within shot fiercely at us, till we by throwing in among them some hand Granades, they quitted those places, which gave way to our men to break a stone pillar of a window, where the Lieutenant Colonel entered, and his four men entered, and after them (immediately after) many more; but before these were come in, the Enemy being at least 80 foot and 30 horse, and fearfully supposing (by reason of the noise of the Drums, aforementioned, and the Lieutenant Colonels calling together of so many Regiments) supposing therefore, 
Morton-Corbet-Castle taken by five men only who first entered the Castle.  I say, that a greater force of ours followed those five then entered into the Castle, they all instantly cried out for quarter, which these five granted them, and by that time the rest of our Forces were come up and had entered the Castle and so possessed themselves firmly of it, and in it Major Bridgeman, Captain Maurice, one Lieutenant, one Sergeant, one Quartermaster, one Ensign, two Horse Colours, at least 80 Soldiers and 30 good Horses, 6 barrels of powder, with much other provisions. The House was so strongly fortified, that my Lord Calven, and the Lieutenant Colonel, who behaved themselves most bravely in this action, said it might have been maintained against a great strength; for, had it been day-work, they should not have attempted it. In all this so resolute and even desperate service, we lost but one man, and had only some few wounded.  
Now much about this time there having come constant and most true intelligence of the sweet tranquillity, and peaceable, and free Trading of the people in all the Eastern and Southern Associated Counties of this Kingdom, where the the King's devouring Cormorants, the bold and bloody Cavaliers had no power to pester them and pilfer from them, (which I may therefore, here, most justly add to the Catalogue of all the rest of our most rare and singular Parliamentary-mercies,) 
Some Collyr●n● or eyesalve to heal (if it were possible) Malignants sore eyes.  as namely, in Cambridgeshire, what a goodly and full Fair there was kept at Sturbridge, near the University, with free Trade and comfortable commerce, as was formerly accustomed in our former most peaceable times; the like also at Berry in Suffolk, 
Fairs & freetrading in all the Associated Counties.  at Lyn in Northfolk, at Braintree in Essex, at Maidstone in Kent, at London both at Peter's Fair in Westminster, James' and Bartholomew Fair, in Smi●●field; and divers other parts and places under the power of the Parliament, and where, I say, the Cankerworms and Caterpillars of the kingdom, the most accursed Cavaliers came not. 
The admirable mercy of God to London and Westminster, in the pure and powerful preaching of the Word.  And again, if we look no farther than the most renowned and famous Cities of London and Westminster, (the intolerable terrors and tormentors, under God, of all the rotten Royalists) where the Word of God is most powerfully and purely, most freely and frequently Preached; where peace and plenty are, (even to the highest admiration of God's infinite and unexpressible praise and glory) enjoyed, and where they know not, But by hear say (ever magnified and omnified be the free grace and great mercy of our good God) the most woeful massacrings, plunderings, and pillagings, spoilings, and filthy deflowering of all sorts and sexes, which in very many, yea, too too many parts and places of the kingdom, are most sadly seen and suffered, where the Atheistical Royalists, Romish and Malignant Atheists, rule and tyrannize, as in Worcestershire, where the English Papists; and Cavalierian Atheists have (all the time of these most unhappy wars) kept correspondency with those most barbarous and bloody Cannibals, 
The sad & bad condition of the Counties & places under the Royalists power and tyranny.  the Rebels of Ireland. O the sad tragedies perpetrated and acted there in those parts, by the russel's, Brunts, Canning●, and other inhuman Cavaliers of that County! by the Giffords in Stoffordshire; the Tailors and Barnses in War●●ickshire the filthy French, Walloons, and all other sorts of bloodthirsty Villains in all parts! I say, where the ravenous and all-ruining Royalists get and keep pernicious power and pre-eminence: witness their horrid and hideous cruelties, and more than Turkish barbarities acted in Oxfordpris●ms, in Marlborough, Newbury, Redding, (when 'twas in their hellish hold) Mar● field, 
Contraria juxta se posita magis illucescunt.  Gloc●s●e● shire, bath, the Vizes, Sommersetshir●, Devon, and Cornwall, in none of all which places, is permitted any free Trading, no powerful Preaching, no comfortable or quiet living, but (as I said) the clean contrary. And, now, seriously and sadly put both these two conditions together, as white to black, and light to darkness, yea even as representative heaven to hell, and then tell me, O thou most obdurate-hearted, and Mole-eyed Malignant, if thou be but Com●os mentis, if, I say, thou art not stark ma●, whether this one, and only consideration (were there no more) be not enough in mere common sense and reason; to open thy blind eyes, and cause thee to see thy gross error, most pestilent prejudice and unreasonable rage and rancour against the ways of God and work of Reformation, the great Cause and business of this present most pious Parliament, so injuriously and so unjustly maligned and abused by thee; God in mercy, at length, open thine eyes to see thy folly and madness, and to be truly humbled for it. But to proceed.  
Now much about the 14 of this instant, came certain intelligence from that valiant and vigilant Commander Colonel Fox, how that a party of his being drawn out by Captain Tudman, marched toward Hartlebury-Castle, and there falling upon a party of the enemies, took prisoners Sergeant Whitlework, and 4 others. That another Captain of his, 
Colonel Foxes constant activity and good Services.  namely, Captain Johnson marched with a party of Horse to join with the Coventry forces for the securing of Asherton Fair (here's another particular confirmation of the truth of what was forementioned) from the Lord Loughboroughs, or rather Rob-carryer, Hastings, and Litchfield Forces: Which Fair (though with much ado) was secured; wherein Colonel Foxes Soldiers, commanded by Captain Johnson aforesaid, unhorsed Colonel Lane, a Litchfield Commander, brought away his Horse, Pistols, Cloak, and Beaver, the Colonel himself being sorely wounded, if not slain, was, with no small struggling, at length rescued by a strong party, and so carried off to Litchfield, but his chin was cut off in the fight, his arm shot and his head sorely wounded, and he therefore deemed unlikely to live.  
Much also about the 16 of this instant, that ever to be honoured and approved Patriot of his Country Alderman Pennington, then, Lieutenant of the Tower of London, (having been brought into no small perplexity and trouble by the sudden and silent escape out of the said Tower of those two bloody Rebels, 
The worthy Lieutenant of the Tower of London, Alderman Pennington apprehended the two Irish-Rebels, Macquire & Mac-mahoon, who had made an escape.  the Lord Macquire and Machmahoon) by the assistance of that most worthy Knight Sir John Cl●tworthy, a Gentleman also of a most public Spirit and known integrity, and a member of the House of Commons in Parliament, who having private intelligence of the said Lord Macquire and Macmahoons place of residence, where they had been securely harboured ever since they got out of the Tower; both these worthy Gentlemen, and eminent Patriots, suddenly and secretly got together, the Trained Bands of Ludgate-Ward in London; and with them expeditiously beset one Mr. Clouds house (a Painter or Picture drawer in Drurie-Lane) on all sides, Cloud himself being out of Town, reported to be beyond Sea, but believed to be with the King, he being a known Papist, and one of a great estate. Now the house being round beset, 
The manner of taking the Rebels.  as aforesaid, Alderman Pennington, and Sir John Clotworthy, with some others went into the said house, and instantly found the two bloody Rebels eating Oysters, on whose persons they instantly and joyfully seized, especially the Lieutenant of the Tower, whom their apprehension most nearly concerned, and with the foresaid Trained Band guarding them along the streets to the Tower again, where, again, they safely lodged and locked them up, till their farther trial for their lives, which shortly after followed. There were also found, at the same time, in the said Clouds house, (that Popish cloud that had hidden those two grand bloody Rebels in his house so long) the pictures of filthy Father Corbet, forsooth, and devilish Ducat, his copesmate, two Irish-priests, that had been hanged, drawn and quartered at Tyburn, but the Sessions before this apprehension of the said Irish-Rebels, both those Villains pictures being very fairly set forth in Oyle-colours; so madly do the Romish sots and slaves of the Pope, dignify, if not Deify such abominable, base and bloody Trentine-Traitors, Rome's cursedly Canonised lying-martyrs; which Pictures I myself saw, in my ever most honoured friends house, Sir John Wollastone, then, the most honourable Lord Major of London.  
About the 18 of this instant September, divers of the reverend and truly religious Ministers of the City of London, 
The City Ministers petition to the Parliam. against novel & upstart Schisms & for a settlement of Church Government.  to a very considerable number, presented a petition to the House of Commons in Parliament, for a full and speedy reformation and uniformity in Doctrine, Discipline, Worship, and Government of the Church of England, wherein, among many other things, they religiously remonstrated, that by reason of many most dangerously erroneous opinions, ruinating Schisms, and damnable heresies (as Anabaptism, Brownism, Antinonianisme, Socinianism, Libertinism, and Independency) most unhappily revived and crept in among us, and much fomented both in City and Country, the Orthodox Ministry and truly pious and painful Pastors were much neglected and contemned, the people seduced, congregations torn asunder, families distracted, rights and duties of Relations both national, civil and spiritual, very scandalously violated, the practical power of godliness greatly decayed, Parliamentary authority was much undermined, fearful confusion introduced, imminent destruction threatened, and in part inflicted on us (lately) in the West, as a sign of Heavens high displeasure at us, for our most unthankful and wanton quarrelling among ourselves, and thereby retarding of so great and glorious a work, so much conducing to God's high honour, and the Kingdom's best security. And therefore they desired (as a sovereign remedy for the removal of these present distempers and growing evils, and the prevention of their farther progress) the serious expediting of a Directory for publick-worship, and to accelerate the establishment of a pure and Apostolical Discipline and Government (according to the Word of God, and the best Reformed Churches) and to endeavour to take away all obstructions that might impede and retard the same. Which petition was read in the House, and the Petitioners called in, and had thanks returned them, with assurance how earnest the Parliament hath been to establish Church-Government, 
Clear demonstrations of the Parliaments pious integrity to expedite and complete the work of Reformation.  as was desired, which was most notably evident, both in their calling of an Assembly of Divines to that purpose, by their endeavours, since, to remove all obstructions and misunderstandings among them that might hinder the work, by their farther late proceedings for the settling of a godly and painful Ministry, in London, and many other parts of the Kingdom within their power; together with divers other ways (as might be instanced) which may be as so many sufficient testimonies of their fervent and faithful zeal therein: And, lastly, to testify their most earnest desire to remove all impediments that might hinder a speedy settlement in Religion, the Commons taking into consideration the many stops and hindrances in the Assembly, by reason of some differences among themselves, they ordered, that the Committee, 
Tender consciences taken into consideration by the Parliament.  of Lords and Commons should treat with the Commissioners of Scotland, and the Assembly about settling a union in point of Church-Government among those Divines which were of a contrary opinion; and in case it could not be, then to find out away how tender consciences might be born withal, so far forth as might stand with the peace and safety of the Kingdom, and as was warranted by the Word of God, that so the Service of the Assembly might not be retarded. And the Assembly of Divines having agreed on the names of such Ministers as they thought fit to be entrusted with the matter of Ordination, 
Ordination of Ministers taken also into consideration & established.  pro tempore, within the City of London, there being 23 of them whereof 13 of the City Ministers, and the other 10 of the Assembly, who presented the same to the Commons, which they passed also with full approbation of them and the said Ordinance was by a message from the Commons sent up to the Lords, desiring their concurrence therein; to which also the Lords immediately assented, and the Ordinance came forth in Print with the full and joint authority of both Houses of Parliament, and the thing itself divers times put into execution in divers Churches in London, in such a holy, reverend, and religious manner, as did exceedingly joy the hearts of all God's people to see, in the most pious and apostolical performance of it.  
About the 20 of this instant, we were most credibly informed by Letters out of Leicestershire, of an excellent exploit performed by a party of Leicester Horse against that old and bold Rob-Carryer Hostrings forces, which was thus certified. viz. That a party of Horse, about 80 in number, going from Leicester, as a convoy to certain Carriers of Nottingham, the passage, by reason of the Enemy's Garrisons there about being full of danger, 
A brave exploit performed by Leicestershire forces against Rob-Carryer Hastings.  so that no Carriers durst adventure to pass without a convoy: Whereof Hastings having had intelligence, and that there was a prize to be preyed on, he presently sent out a party of about an 120 Horse at least against them, but they coming too short of the Carriers (who were, before his coming safely lodged in Nottingham, and the Convoy returning to Leicester; Hastings Forces placed their ambuscadoes and lined the hedges on both sides of a Lane where Leicester Forces were to pass through, near unto a Town called Castock within 5 miles on this side Nottingham, and accordingly gave the said Convoy an unexpected salute in their said return; but they very gallantly forced their passage through the Lane, which done they wheeled about again upon the Enemy, beat them from the hedges, miserably routed and dispersed their whole party, killed and took above 60 of them prisoners, the rest that escaped, leaving all their arms behind them for haste, and they took 90 good horses from them besides. In which action Leicester forces lost not one man; only Lieutenant Steevens, who deserved much honour for his gallant undertaking in this Service was shot in the back, but not mortally wounded. After which exploit thus bravely performed by a party of but 86 against at least an 120. the Convoy returned sa●e unto Leicester with all their prisoners and prizes, and were entertained with much joy and triumph.  
About September 23. we received certain information, by Letters both from the right noble and renowned Patriots and magnanimous Commanders, 
A most famous and renowned Victory obtained by Sir William Breret●n, Sir Tho. Middleton, & Sir John Meldrum, at the raising of the s●ege before Mountgomery-Castle. Mountgomery-Castle besieged by the Enemy, as soon as we had taken it.  Sir William Brereton, Sir Thomas Middleton, and as virtuous as valorous Sir John Meldrum, to the Parliament, bearing date the 18 & 19 of Septem. 1644. of a most famous and renowned victory, obtained (by God's great mercy and goodness) by their forces against the Enemy at the raising of the s●ege, before Mountgomery-Castle; the substance of all which three noble Commanders Letters to the Parliament, I have, here, for the Readers better content and satisfaction, faithfully extracted and Composed together, in this relation following Immediately after renowned Sir Thomas Middleton, had been possessed of the strong and advantageous Castle of Mountgomery, it was suddenly and closely besieged again by a very strong power of the Enemy's Forces, before ours could bring in any competent provision for that Garrison, and both the Lord Herbert of Cherbury, Colonel Price, and most of Sir Thomas Middleton's brave Officers, and near 500 Soldiers, were all, thereby, much distressed, and in great danger; which, brave Sir Thomas Middleton perceiving, and laying near to heart, himself also being necessitated to a retreat, and he having, in his retreat, safely recovered Oswestry, he presently hasted into Cheshire unto renowned Sir William Brereton, his ever fast friend, who, indeed; like a faithful Achates▪ 
Sir Tho. Middleton speedily invites Sir Wil Brereton, & Sir John Meldrum, to his assistance A brave prize lately before taken from the Enemy.  never failed him; and instantly also expedited messengers into L●ncashire to valiant Sir John M●ldrum, and brave Sir William Fairfax, in all whom, he found a great deal of forwardness and cheerful readiness, both to help the said distressed Castle, and to preserve what they had but lately before gotten from the Enemy; viz. 37 barrels of powder, 12 barrels of brimstone, store of Match and other Ammunition, which the Enemy exceedingly wanted, all which, ours, I say, had a little before taken, as it was coming from Bristol, and was intended for the relief of Shrewsbury, Chester and Leverpool. Now, all these foresaid noble and renowned Commanders speedily assembled and marched together toward Mountgomery-castle with 30●0 Horse and Foot, 
Our Army consisting of 3000 horse and foot, come near the Enemy to the Castle.  and came thither on Septem. 17. resolving to contribute their best endeavours in this expedition in regard of the great importance of the Service. They lay, that night, in a field most advantageous for them, which the Enemy had possessed themselves of before, but deserted at our Forces coming thither, placing themselves on the mountain above the Castle, a place of great advantage for them, our forces resolved not to go to them, but to endeavour to victual the Castle, and sent out parties for the bringing in of provisions to the Castle, even a third part of our Horse being thus employed abroad for victuals, and forage for the Castle; which the Enemy perceiving, 
The Enemy's Army consisting of 5000 horse and foot commanded by the Lord Byron. Sir john Meldrum had the ordering and managing of this whole action.  they took the opportunity, and thereupon marched down in a body toward us both Horse and Foot, being in number, full 5000 Horse and Foot, whom that bloody Lord Byron commanded in Chief, and came up to our Forces to give them battle, with great courage and resolution, thinking at the first to have broke through our Forces, and to have made themselves Masters of the Bridge, which ours had gained the night before, which indeed, would have cut off the passage of our retreat. But valiant Sir John Meldrum, who had the command and ordering of our Forces, performed the charge with admirable judgement dexterity and resolution, and therefore (as noble Sir William Brereton testified of him) deserved a large share in the honour of that day's success; but indeed, the whole honour and glory of it all was to be given and ascribed to God only, the giver of all Victories. Ours, by the foresaid fierce assault of Byron's Forces so desperately on us, were so hardly tasked by their multitude, that the Commanders and Soldiers were constrained deeply, and most undauntedly to engage their utmost valour and courage, 
The fight was very desperate & dubious on both sides.  and behaved themselves (as indeed by God's providence it was manifested) most extraordinary gallantly (for it was a while very dubious and uncertain, which way the Lord would incline the Victory) yea, and at last it came to push of Pike, wherein they were much too hard for ours; they having many more Pikes than we, insomuch that our Horse was worsted, at the beginning of the battle, and forced a while to retreat; but it so pleased the Lord, at last, to put such an unanimous Spirit and undaunted courage and resolution both in our Horse and Foot (animated on by the admirable examples of their so renowned Leaders and Commanders, Sir John Meldrum, Sir William Brereton, 
The admirable courage of our brave Commanders and Leaders. Sir Wil Fairfax mortally wounded in this fight  Sir Thomas Middleton, Sir William Fairfax, who had the Command of the Horse, who did most valiantly set upon the Enemy's Horse, and engaged himself so far that he was taken prisoner, but was presently fetched off by the valour of his own men, but yet mortally wounded) but, as I said before, God had put such a spirit of undaunted resolution and courage into the hearts both of Sir William Fairfax his men, and, indeed, of all the rest, that they resolved to fight it out to the last man; insomuch that when the battle was now in a most anxious and uncertain condition, 
Our extremity was God's opportunity. The Enemies whole Army routed and put to flight.  our extremity was God's opportunity to magnify his power, and on a sudden with one fresh and valiant charge our Soldiers routed the Enemy, and put their whole Army to a most shameful retreat, or rather, indeed, a plain flight, pursuing them divers miles together even in the Mountains, and performed great execution on them; And, as I should have told you, our men, when the battle was in the hottest, issued out of the Castle and fell upon the enemies that were in their trenches and took divers of their Officers and Soldiers, whom they had left to keep their works. In which foresaid fight and flight of the Enemies, 
The slain and prisoners taken in this notable fight.  we slew at least 500 of their common Soldiers, besides many Officers and men of quality, wounded many more, and took near upon 1500 prisoners, among whom were these Officers and Commanders, viz. Colonel Sir Thomas Tilsley, their Major General; Colonel Broughton; Lieutenant Colonel Bladwell; Major Williams; 9 Captains; 17 Leivtenants; 1 Quartermaster, 3 Cornets; 22 Ensigns; 52 Sergeants; 57 Corporals; and 11 Drums. Our Soldiers also took at this time, near 2000 arms, most for foot; all their Carriages, and near 20 barrels of powder, wherewith they had been furnished the night before. Sir William Brereton, with his brave Cheshire foot, 
Sir Will. Brereton & his Cheshire forces did most remarkably in this fight  and among them, Major Lowtham, especially, who Commanded as Major General, did most admirably in this fight, and fought more like Lions than men, (as noble Sir John Meldrum himself testified of them) and did beat the best Foot in England, as the very Enemies themselves confessed, being all Prince Robbers foot, and indeed the choicest foot out of all their Garrisons. But noble and renowned Sir William Fairfax (as I touched before) was mortally wounded, by at least 15 wounds upon his body; as also Major Fitz-Simons a brave Soldier, 
Our loss and slain.  who both behaved themselves most admirably, and with invincible courage, in this terrible battle, and (with great and most just lamentation for their loss) died of their wounds, immediately after the fight, together with some few others of our Captains and Officers of horse; but it was verily believed we lost not 40 men, slain in this fight, nor had above 60 of our Soldiers wounded. Thus by God's blessing the Castle was every way most valiantly relieved, 
Our benefits by this famous Victory.  brave Sir Thomas Middleton's Soldiers, who before were as prisoners, were now set free from danger, together with the Lord Herbert of Cherbury, and all of them put into a comfortable posture; and by this so terrible a blow, the best of the Enemy's foot ruinated and taken from them, as also Shrewsbury, Chester, and Leverpool unfurnished of their hoped Ammunition, and ourselves plentifully furnished, and, hereby, North-wales (which formerly had been the nursery for the King's Armies) most probable, in good time, to shake off that yoke of Servitude, which formerly lay so heavily upon their necks, by the example of Mountgomery-castles safety, which is, indeed, one of the goodliest and strongest places that is in the Kingdom. And, now, say (good Reader) did not here the Lord our God let us conspicuously see that great wonder of the Bush, 
The Burning-Bush not consumed, again.  his Church or Children, in the midst of a furious flame, indeed, and yet not consumed therewith, but rather chose flourishing in the flames and destroying the destroyers, and quenching the crackling thorns of the ungodly, under the boiling pot of their implacable wrath and fiercest fury, Not unto us, therefore, Lord, not unto us, but unto thy name alone, We give all the honour and glory. But, here, give me leave (good Reader) to acquaint thee (I holding it very pertinent to this present business) with one more most noble and renowned action, which much honoured that brave Commander Sir John Meldrum; who immediately after this famous Victory, was yet so sensible of the loss of that noble Gentleman, and most brave Commander Sir William Fairfax, 
A most memorable & worthy act of renowned Sir Joh. Meldrum toward slain Sir Will. Fairfax his surviving sorrowful Lady.  that apprehending (and that most rightly and religiously) the affliction would be great to his deer surviving virtuous Lady (as indeed it was sad to her and to the whole kingdom) he procured from among the Soldiers, or Surgeons (not without some difficulty) the Diamond-Ring that was on Sir William's finger, and the bracelet of gold that was about his arm, when he was slain in the fight, and sent them up to his Lady, together with a Letter so full of noble and most pious expressions, as it hath justly added much to his other actions of honour. And when these things were denied him by some Surgeons, and by some others also claiming them to be their due, he drew up some of his horse, and said he would deal with them, as with enemies, if they did not deliver the same to be sent to his Lady. Sir Thomas Middleton likewise, wrote a Letter of much respect and consolation to the Lady Fairfax; 
The most pious and precious speech of the virtuous Lady Fairfax.  Who like a most heroic and pious Lady, told her friends about her, That she grieved not that he d●ed in this Cause, but that he died so soon to do no more for it. A most noble speech, indeed, and most worthy a virtuous and Christian Lady. But now to proceed.  
About the 26 of this instant September, came certain intelligence by Letters to London, out of Gloucestershire, of a very rare exploit performed by that most renowned and ever to be honoured successful Commander Colonel massy, 
A brave exploit of renowned Colonel Massies, in the taking of the Town & Castle of Monmouth.  at Monmouth in South-Wales, which was this: Colonel Kerl, who had the Command of the said Town and Castle for the King, went out in the night with a party of Horse, and was met with by Colonel massy, who having laid an ambuscado, surprised the Colonel, and took all his men prisoners; After which (to requite some ill service which he had formerly done to the Parliament, in deserting it (or whither that were done by compulsion or otherwise, I will not determine, but) the said Colonel Kerl (upon an agreement and resolution betwixt brave Colonel massy and him) marched in the head of Colonel Massies men to the Town of Monmouth, and demanded entrance, whereupon the drawbridge being let down, Colonel massy soon became Master thereof, 
The Town and Castle of Monmouth, taken by Col. massy, by a stratagem.  and quickly got possession both of the Town and Castle together, with the loss not of above 6 men on both sides. This Colonel Kerles Father was then at Gloucester, and for the Parliament, and having an estate in the County of Monmouth, the King gave it to his Son on his revolt to his side; but by this means the Father happily regained both his Son and his inheritance together. This Town being a place of great concernment, was on this obtaining of it, made a Garrison for the Parliament; it being not only the inlet into South-Wales, from Bristol, but was also a Magazine to furnish that City and those parts with Butter, Cheese, and all sorts of Victuals.  
And about the latter end of this instant September, we had farther certain information by Letters from Glouc●ster, that Prince Robber having had a design to secure a passage between Bristol and Wales, 
A brave 〈◊〉 given to the Enemy by Col. 〈◊〉 Massy at Betsley Sconce in the Forest of Dean  for which purpose ●ee had sent 200 of his Forces to Betsley in the Forest of Dean, joining upon the Severn, near unto that grand Papists Sir John winter's, in the Parish of Tidenton, where they were a fortifying and making a mote, and had raised a Sconce to secure that Garrison; But valiant Colonel massy having timely intelligence thereof, drew out a considerable Party of his own and some of the Earl of Denbighs Horse, and bravely fell upon them; slew divers of them, took their Governor and 10 Commanders more, about an 162 prisoners, 200 Arms, 2 pieces of Ordnance, and all their Artillery, bag and baggage; and thereby utterly frustrated that design; and thus the noble and renowned Colonel victoriously returned to Gloucester, with all his prisoners and prise aforesaid.  
And now, good Reader, let me here desire thee to make a little pause and ponder a while with holy admiration and Christian contemplation on this months great wonder also; even to see this blessed Burning-Bush, 
The Burning-Bush 〈…〉.  the Cause of God, his innocent Church or Children, in the midst of so many cumbersome and combustuous, and furiously flaming Conflagrations; and yet this Bush so far from being consumed, as that chose it grows more and more strong, vigorous and victorious, sprouting and spreading forth with more and more extraordinary boughs and branches, and as it were in a fair and most flourishing condition; Witness all this foresaid months particular passages of God's providence and protection over his forely smitten, assaulted, and menaced Members of his Church, both in their deep danger in Cornwall by an undoubted plot of treachery contrived by false friends, as well as open enemies; together I say, with all the rest of the most memorable providential passages of this month, in all which it was most evidently seen, that the blessing and good will of him that dwelled in the Bush was plentifully poured out on his Church's Cause; 
Deut. 33. 16.  and may therefore most justly cause and encourage us still more and more to magnify the mercy of our good God, and with immovable constancy and confidence relying on his experienced love and faithfulness to confess with holy David (to the incomparable praise of our wonderworking God) O Lord God of Hosts, 
Psal. 89. 6. 8.  who is a strong Lord like unto thee, or to thy faithfulness round about thee? for who in the heavens can be compared to the Lord, and who among the sons of the mighty can be like unto our God? But now to go on.  
AND now, 
October. 1644.  I say, to go on in a farther and more serious search (for contemplation and admiration) of these continued wonders, of our great and glorious wonderworking God, which were most obviously and conspicuously presented to our eyes and ears in the whole progress of this next ensuing Month of October, 1644. And here we will begin with the then present state and condition of the Parliaments main and standing-Army, under the special Command of his Excellency the Lord General, Robert Earl of Essex; which Army, what a most dangerous combustion and deep gulf of destruction it had lately escaped in the West (by the unfaithfulness (as was strongly conceived, and groundedly believed also, as I have already expressed in the last foregoing month's passages) of some of the prime Officers and Commanders of that Army? In serious consideration whereof our most renowned and vigilant Parliamentary Statists did (the very beginning of this Month) Vote a Committee to go down to the Army, 
A Committee of both Houses of Parliament appointed to be joined with the Army, for joint consultation in the actions & motions thereof.  viz. the Lord Wareston, and Mr. Crew, whose advice was to be taken by the Commander and Commanders in Chief for the prevention of future disloyal attempts and treacherous designs, and for the more serious and solid acts and motions of the Army, for the good of the Kingdom, by God's blessing thereon; the like course being said to be taken in Holland, namely, that there are some of the States of those united-provinces that accompany the Prince of Orange, whose concurrent advice he takes upon the enterprising of any design; and yet the said Prince takes not this as any diminution of his Command: And how needful this course hath been in our main Army, the Kingdom hath been or might have been most feelingly sensible; especially considering the ill-instruments which about this time, and formerly were and have been in the Army in the West (which, although I have already, in some measure touched before, 
A more clear demonstration of the plot against our Army in the West.  yet because more clear demonstrations thereof are since come to light, and to my hands, I shall desire, with the Readers patience and to his farther and fuller satisfaction therein, a little here to insist on) Witness therefore those instructions dispersed by Colonel Butler (as was most credibly informed) which the King sent to tempt our said Army, then in Cornwall, which were the most desperate and dangerous things that ever were yet penned, 
Dangerous Instructions to tempt our Army to revolt from the Parl. to the King. One of the Instructions.  and may in time come to public view; One of which was this; You shall also inform that we have assurance of a Party in both the Houses of Parliament at Westminster, that do only wait the conjunction of these two Armies (meaning the King's Army, and the Lord Generals, then, in Cornwall) and then they will put things to the question, being backed with such a strength which now they dare not propound; Also you shall enforce the conjunction of these two Armies, the sooner, with this argument, that, otherwise, the Scots will prevail and conquer the Kingdom, and so the English must become subject to that Nation. There were 20 or 30 more particulars (as was credibly informed) and those very remarkable ones. These instructions were sent by Mr. Harding Son to the marquis of Hartford, to be communicated to his Excellency, if upon the receipt of a Letter sent from the King to our Lord General, 
The Lord Generals noble ●delity to the State.  he would entertain a Treaty; Which, his Excellency, most loyally and prudently had formerly refused, highly scorning to be fastened on (though by a Royal temptation) to betray his trust; yet, how ever, those private Instructions were afterward dispersed▪ amongst some of the Commanders, as we then found by unhappy experience. And yet, in all the plot and design (praised and for ever blessed be the Lord our God) the issue proved more to be a crackling-Squib, than a considerable loss, (as hath been before more particularly and clearly manifested) especially considering the danger, and yet the Bush un-burnt, 
The false, fallacious and malicious p●ottings of the Royalists to cozen the Kingdom.  in the midst of that great flame round about it. In which premised Regal instructions, we may primarily take notice how falsely and fallaciously the Royalists fancy to themselves (and that with no small malice too) both a party in the Parliament for them, and would also fain blind the kingdom with such a belief: But, that which sticks most to their sides (as there you may see and observe) is our honest and loyal Brethren of Scotland, against whom they would fain possess the people with an opinion, that their intention is to conquer the kingdom; whereas never did a Nation so faithfully, 
The chief reason why our Brethren of Scotland, are so slandered and maligned by Cavaliers and Malignants.  and (in a manner) so unanimously appear, with more loyalty and cordial integrity, in the Cause of Religion, than they have done; and the crafty Cavaliers knew they will not depart from their principles, nor leave assisting the Parliamentary proceedings, till Religion and Liberty be secured, in both kingdoms; and therefore I cannot much blame them (considering their case and condition) that they so scandalise the Nation of Scotland, that in the conclusion is like (by God's gracious assistance and appointment) to be a main means of their ruin and destruction from among us. And to all these premises, add that most memorable mercy of the Lord in those our straits in Cornwall, forementioned, namely, what admirable courage and undaunted resolution the Lord put at that time, into the hearts of those most valiant Commanders and Soldiers that were of the Plymouth Horse, 
The admirable courage of the Commanders & Soldiers of the Plymouth horse.  who in Cornwall, by their impregnable courage and valiant actions, deserved as much honour as could be possibly conferred upon men of merit and valour. For, all those of the King's Army that were of the three Regiments of the King's Horse, were utterly routed by Major Straghen a Scottish Commander with only 100 Plymouth Horse, whom he Commanded, who all manifested so much unparallelled valour and magnanimity of spirit, as occasioned such extreme terror to the Enemy, that the King himself was put into as great a fright at that time, 
The Plymouth horse, put the King himself into a terrible and frighting fear.  as when he road hard from Northall●rton to York, when he heard the Scots had beaten his Army at Newborn, at their first coming in among us; So stoutly they resolved and so faithfully performed and acted their resolution, to live and die with our Foot forces (at that time left in such a straight) and to stand or fall with them, though most barbarously and basely they were p●●●ged and plundered contrary to Conditions, yea, the King himself being in the field, and to his shame and eternal infamy it will certainly remain to posterity, 
A most ignoble & disloyal act of King Charles in Cornwall.  that he most unjustly permitted such a most ignoble, disloyal, and unsouldierly shameful action to be committed, notwithstanding that noble and ever to be honoured Major General Skippon went to his Majesty, and complained of that perfidious breach of Articles, but could find no redress therein. And now, good Reader, put all these together, viz. the Enemies abominable treachery to have utterly ruinated our so brave an Army (forementioned in some passages of the Month before) together with the devilish design to have wrought our Army perfidiously to have conjoined and combined into one body against the Parliament; And the admirable courage and magnanimity of spirit which God put into the hearts of our Foot forces, and some few Horse, especially those of renowned Plymouth, to stand to it so invincibly, and to come off so totally with their lives, out of so deep and dangerous a snare and pitfall, into which they were very near entrapped. And then say whether the Lord Jehovah appeared not mightily and most manifestly for their preservation, 
The blessing of him that dwelled in the Bush was on our Army in the West.  and whither the blessing of him that dwelled in the Bush, was not on them to save them from the devouring flames of that prepared and intended combustion and confusion.  
Much also about the 4 of this instant October, came Letters out of Scotland, which certified for an undoubted truth, that the Popish party and faction of the Royalists in Scotland, had laid down their arms, 
Most successful proceedings of affairs in Scotland, and in the Northern parts of our kingdom▪  and were come in and had submitted themselves. That the most noble marquis of Argile, most renowned in Scotland for his known constant piety, loyalty to his King and Country, and his magnanimity of spirit, in the then present distracted condition of Scotland; that he, I say, was in present pursuit of the Irish Rebels that had got in among them there, and kept them closely in among the mountains, where he often lit upon many of them, and straitened them extremely; Insomuch that the troubles of that honest neighbour kingdom being thus far so happily appeased, the noble Earl of Callender returned again to the Leaguer at Newcastle. It was also then for certain informed by Letters out of the North, that the Array-men and other disaffected persons of quality in the Counties of Cumberland, 
Many Array-men in the Northern parts surprised by the Country people.  and Westmoreland, were met together to feast together, and therein also to consult about raising more Forces in those parts against the Parliaments proceedings there; which the Countrypeople having knowledge of, and being very sensible of the miseries which those men had already been means to bring upon those Counties and places adjacent, they all rose as one man, and apprehended many of them, to the number of about 40. whom they brought to General Lesley, to the Leaguer, but Musgrave and Fletcher narrowly escaped to Carlisle.  
About the 6 of this instant, Letters from Welchpool, were brought to London, which certified that renowned Sir Thomas Middleton had taken Red●astle a place of very great consequence and one of the strongest of the Enemies holds in North-wales. The manner of the taking of it was said to be thus. The Enemy, in this Castle (whereof the Lord Powis, a grand Papist, and most desperate and devilish blasphemer of God's name, 
The taking of Radcastle in North-wales by Sir Thomas Middleton.  was Governor and the Owner also) did often oppose and interrupt the bringing in of provisions unto our forces at Mountgomery castle; whereupon Sir Thomas Middleton summoned the whole County thereabout to come in unto him, and presently upon it advanced from Mountgomery to Pool with 300 foot and a 100 Horse, where they quartered on the Monday and Tuesday night following, and on the Wednesday morning next, at 2 of the clock, even by Moonlight, Mr. John A●undell, the Master-Gunner to Sir Thomas Middleton, placed a Petard against the outer-gate, which burst the gate quite in pieces, and (notwithstanding the many showers of stones thrown from the Castle, by the enemies) Sir Thomas Middleton's foot commanded by Captain Hugh Massey, and Major Henry Kett, rushed with undaunted resolution, into the Enemy's works, got into the porch of the Castle, and, so stormed the Castle-gate, entered it, and possessed themselves both of the old and new-castle, and of all the plate, provisions and goods therein, which was great store, which had been brought from all parts thereabout; 
The prisoners & prizes taken in the Castle.  they also took prisoners therein, the Lord Powis and his brother, with his two Sons, together with a Seminary-Priest, 3 Captains, one Lieutenant, and 80 Officers and Common Soldiers, 40 horse, and 200 arms. The place is of great concernment, for, before the taking of it, it did much mischief to the Country, and almost had blocked up the passages from Oswestry to Mountgomery-castle, so that, now, the strongest forts in all North-wales, are in the possession of the Parliament, this Castle being conceived to be of strength sufficient to hold out a years siege, and to be able to keep out at least 10000 men for a whole 12 month, it having at that present, sufficient provision in it of all sorts for such a continuance of time. Besides, by this means noble Sir Thomas Middleton hath now the command of all North-wales, and can raise men, there, at his own pleasure.  
About the 10 of this instant October, the Ordinance for Ordination of pious and painful Ministers, pro tempore, (whereof I briefly made former mention that it was in preparation in the Parliament) now, fully had passed both the Houses, and was Printed and published. By which it was Ordained by the Lords and Commons in Parliaments (upon advice had with the Learned and Reverend Assembly of Divines, 
The Ordinance for Ordination of Ministers, in & about London  convened at Westminster) that during the present exigencies of the Armies, and of the Navy, as also of many Congregations destitute of able and faithful Ministers, and until a farther and fuller Church-government were completed, and the whole and constant course of Ordination of Ministers, in an ordinary way were set up and settled for the three Kingdoms of England, Scotland, and Ireland; That these persons in the City of London, being Presbyters, viz. Dr. Cornelius Burge●, one of the Assessors of the Assembly, Dr. William Gouge, Mr. John Ley, Mr. George Walker, 
The names of the Presbyters appointed for Ordination of Ministers.  Mr. Edmund Calamy, Mr. Daniel Coudrey, Mr. Stanley Gower, Mr. John Conant, and Mr. Humphrey Chambers, all members of the Assembly; Mr. Henry Roxborough, Mr. John Downham, Mr. Charles Offspring, Mr. Richard Lee, Mr. Timothy Dod, Mr. James Cranford, Mr. Thomas Horton, Mr. Thomas Glendon, Mr. Arthur Jackson, Mr. Samuel Clark, Mr. Emanuel Brown, Mr. Fulk Bellers, Mr. Francis Roberts, Mr. Leonard Cook; or any 7 of them, the major part being present, shall examine all those which are to be admitted into the Ministry, upon these particulars following, viz. Touching his skill in the Original tongues, and that trial be made by reading the Hebrew and Greek Testaments; 
The manner of examining those that are to be Ordained Ministers.  and rendering some portion of them into Latin; Whether he hath skill in Logic and Philosophy; What Authors he hath read, and what knowledge he hath to defend the Orthodox Religion, contained in them; That he shall frame a discourse in Latin, upon some Common place or controversy in Divinity, as shall be assigned him, and maintain a dispute thereon, and shall preach before the people or Ministers appointed to Ordain, or some of them. Being thus approved, he is also to Preach three several days in the Church where he is to serve, that they also may have trial of his gifts, and may know and be satisfied concerning his life and conversation. Which being thus completed and concluded, the next thing in reference to that, and the very first thing, indeed, 
Care taken for an augmentation of Ministers small Livings, and for future competent maintenance for them,  the pious and prudent House of Commons took into consideration, was, how such godly and able Ministers might be supported and comfortably subsist, who formerly had very small and inconsiderable livings; and yet that the Parishioners might not be overcharged therein: Whereupon a remedy was propounded to be out of the revenues of Deans and Chapters of cathedrals, which also was generally approved of, and referred to the Committee of plundered Ministers to bring in an Ordinance to that purpose. And a precedent thereof was made for a farther allowance to be given to the Minister of To●●ham-High-●ros●●, out of the revenues of the Dean and Chapter of Paul's in Lond●n, he having at that time, not above 30 pound a year in that Parish. But of this, more in its due place.  
About the 14 of this instant, we had certain information by Letters out of Glo●estershire, and from Colonel massy himself, who thereby confirmed the truth thereof to the Parliament, of a very rare and famous exploit performed by this most renowned, successful, and unconquerable Commander, Colonel massy, the substance of which Letters was to this effect. That God had in his rich mercy and goodness given him singular good success against the King's Forces commanded by Sir John Winter, 
A most brave & famous exploit performed by that most renowned Commander Col●n. Massy upon the King's Forces at Beechley.  that active arch Papist, at the passage at Beechley, where he had formerly well cudgeled him, as I have before specified; And now again Sir John Winter, perceiving himself, and those of his Popish and malignant humour that inhabited in those parts to be in a desperate condition, unless that passage at Beechley or Bestley, could be fortified by them against Colonel Massies constant excursions upon him; whereupon he, I say, adventured again to fortify the same, and which he did with much admirable dexterity and expedition, as was almost incredible to be believed, that in so few days, such strong works could be made, but having pallisadoes ready made at Bristol, and speedily conveyed to him, of three several sorts, each higher than other, and all of them well strengthened with ironwork, they were therefore suddenly fastened into the ground, and good deep ditches made; But notwithstanding, undaunted Colonel massy hearing hereof, presently marched out of Monmouth, with a 100 Foot, all commanded men, and 8 troops of Horse, and therewith marched against the Enemy; who having intelligence of his approach, presently drew out a party of Musketteirs, and lined the hedges in his way; but about 4 of the clock in the morning, the noble Colonel fell upon them, beat them from the hedges, and drove them to their holds, and following them close, fell valiantly upon their works, and forced the Enemy into the pallisadoes, and got over the first and second pallisadoes, notwithstanding the great and small shot, both from the works and the ships and pinnace in both the rivers of Wye and Severn, and being himself thrown down to the ground by a leap which his horse made over the ditch (he himself first entering) a Musketteir of the enemies gave fire at him, 
The extraordinary danger of death that noble Col. massy was in at this 〈◊〉.  but, by God's good providence miss his mark, and being somewhat near him, as soon as he had discharched, he turned the Butt-end of his musket and struck at the Colonel, and with the force of the blow struck off his headpiece, all which was so suddenly done, that the brave Colonel had no time to consider the danger he was in; but being of an undaunted spirit, he now had recovered himself, and instantly charged the Musketteir and killed him on the place; and by this time was valiant Colonel Harley also entered into the second palisado with his horse, and so fully relieved and remounted Colonel massy, and presently after him came also Colonel Kerle, and so they all together made a most furious onset upon the Enemy, and fell to it pellmell with their Swords, Muskets, and Pistols; now the Enemy seeing himself so hard beset, and that there were little or no hope to do any good, they began to run away apace, and Sir John Winter himself (that grand Papist, who had always showed himself exceeding active in the Papist cause) being now amongst them, and who (to give him his due, stood stoutly upon his guard, with a fire-pike, a while, till Colonel Kerle discovering who he was, cried out, 
Sir John Winter that grand Papist being in a great danger of death, tumbled himself down a hill to save his life.  that's Winter, that's Winter, pistol him, pistol him, whereupon he flung down his pike, and tumbled himself down the steep bank or hill where the palisado stood, where his neck, contrary to all likelihood, incurred not the act of breaking, and so he escaped, but his horse was taken, but yet 230 men that might have escaped the same way, durst not follow his example therein, and so were all taken prisoners, among whom was Lieutenant Colonel powel, 
The prisoners & prizes taken.  Sir Ralph Hoptons' own Major, together with divers other Commanders and Officers, and near 10 slain upon the place: we took there also, 8 barrels of powder, 4 Drakes, and 4 Iron-peices, 200 Arms, with many horse and furniture; And that which was further observable was this, that Prince Robber was to have been there the next night after it was thus taken by us, and his bed was set up and fairly furnished for him, and he was to have joined with Colonel Gerard, but now was by God's great mercy and good providence prevented therein. All which service was thus most bravely performed by this victorious Colonel, 
The loss which we sustained in this exploit.  through God's gracious assistance, with the loss of only 10 of his own men, and some few wounded. This exploit was of great concernment to us, in regard that it hinders all manner of provisions from the Enemy at Bristol, and stops the passage from Wales, so that they can have no supply of men from thence; which consideration, indeed, made the enemy so eager to have possessed themselves of that advantageous passage. 
A brief Encomium to renowned Col. massy.  Many Colonels, I justly and ingenuously acknowledge have done bravely; but brave and ever to be renowned massy hath excelled them all, and that which challengeth eternal fame and dateless splendour to his illustrious name, and indelible honour, is his constant persevering in all his most noble actions, free from self-aymes and ends, not ambitious, nor proud of his many incomparable Victories, not covetous, but truly gallant and noble. Hold on, then, renowned massy, and certainly the illustrious name and fame of massy, more precious than Massie-gold, shall never die, but ever fairly flourish, whiles England stands. But to go on.  
About the 16 of this instant, we had also indubitable information out of the North, that the base and bloody Irish-Rebels, having sent a ship with 8 great pieces of Ordnance, 
An Irish ship taken, at White-Haven in Cumberland.  20 double-barrels of powder, and good store of other Ammunition into White-Haven in Cumberland, intended for the relief of Carlisle, being then distressed for want of powder and such other Ammunition; Sir Wilfrid Lawson, who had raised a Regiment in Cumberland for the service of the Parliament, happily surprised her in the said Haven, by manning out some men in boats, and so seized upon the said Ship, Ordnance, and Ammunition.  
Much also about the same time came certain news from Pool, of the taking of an 100 brave horse of the Queens own Regiment, 2 Colours, a Masse-book, and other Popish trumpery, 40 prisoners, then, 
A brave prize taken by the Governor of Pool. And  taken, and 16 killed on the place, by the brave Governor of Pool, who victoriously returned thither again, with all the said Horse and prisoners, with the loss of but one man of his; This brave exploit was performed between Pool and Blanford.  
And about the same time we had certain intelligence out of the North, 
Another by Colonel Lambert.  that valiant Colonel Lambert (since his and Colonel Sandys taking a Troop of Horse in Craven) hath taken a 120 horse more from the Enemy at Plumpton in Yorkshire, together with an Irish-Rebell their Commander, whom they took prisoner, with the rest.  
And much about this time also a petition was presented to the Parliament, by that virtuous and religious Gentlewoman, Mistress Bastwick (wife to that heroick-hearted Gentleman, and famously suffering servant of the Lord Jesus Christ, Dr. John Bastwick) for some allowance for herself and children, and toward the present maintenance of her said Husband, than a prisoner in the Castle of Knarsborough in Yorkshire, for the Parliaments Cause, as he had formerly lain prisoner a long time in the Island of Silly in Cornw. 
Much to be honoured Dr. John Bastwick re●●ived in prison, and released out of prison, by the Parliament.  for pieties and religions Cause; which her petition was very freely and favourably entertained by the House of Lords, and by them sent to the House of Commons, to desire their concurrence therein, who accordingly most willingly agreed thereunto, and the sum of an 100 pound was presently ordered to be paid unto her out of Haberdashers-Hall in London, and which she immediately received thence as was ordered. And shortly after this, it pleased the good hand of God's providence so to order it, that by the indefatigable pains and care of Mistress Bastwick, and of Colonel Hudlestones wife (he being then a prisoner in the Tower of London) the said noble Dr. 
Dr. Bastwick exchanged for Col. Hudlestone, returned from Knaresbor●ugh Castle to London.  was upon exchange for the said Hudlestone, released out of prison from Knaresborough Castle, as aforesaid; where, and also in the Castle in York, he had endured much wrong and great affliction, but now was, I say, returned home to London, with abundance of honour and most welcome entertainment to the City of London, and to all the honest-hearted-Christians therein; yea, most welcome, I say, to his dear Wife and Children. And, O thrice happy Gentleman indeed (say I) heerin, especially, namely, that having most magnanimously, and with invincible Christian courage and wisdom, passed (as the Poet sang) Per varios casus, per tot discrimina rerum, and now at last arrived safely in his desired Haven, he found most happy, 
Dr. Bastwick, like an impregnable Rock, ●●turned true to his pious principles.  and heart-cheering welcome in his own conscience, having (like an impregnable Rock) held fast his pious principles, and withstood and outstood all the assaults and snares of Papists, disloyal Royalists, Separatists, Anabaptists, Antinomians, and novel Independents, who all struggled and strove to have seduced and ensnared him into their unhappy and unholy Labyrinths of heresy, error, and schism, to his Souls ruin; but, whom, I say, God did most graciously support and preserve from the danger of them all, and returned unto us a most loyal and faithful friend to God's glorious Cause, and a most constant and courageous professor and propugnatour of untainted Truth, which two, indeed, deck and adorn the flourishing garland of his afflictions, and make the Crown of his sufferings most illustrious and glorious; But to proceed.  
About the 18 of this instant, came certain intelligence, by ●eters out of North-wales, that since the taking of Radcastle, by unowned Sir Thomas Middleton, (whereof we made mention a little before) he hath also performed much gallant service in those parts; and in particular that ●ee sent forth a party of horse and foot into Leigh, 
More excellent performances by noble & renowned Sir Too. Middleton, in North Wale●.  about a mile from Bishops-castle, where the Enemy had left a Garrison, which fled away thence before his forces came near them; after this a party of about 20 horse was sent from Mountag●m●ry into R●dnorshire, where they took prisoner the Lord Leigh, Baron of Du●smore, who was then carried prisoner to Radcastle. Sin●e that also, the Enemy forsook another Garrison, called Leigh●●ll, the house of Sir Pelham Corbet, in Shropshire. And Sir John Price (a Gentleman always well-affected to the Parliament, though, overpowered by his Enemies round about him, was forced to conceal it) was made Governor of Mountgomery-castle. The Country came in very cheerfully to Sir Thomas Middleton, upon his summons, but were very unwilling to fight, so little valour is there in tho●e who pretend to descend from the ancient Britain's.  
Upon the 23 of this instant October, came the full and certain relation, and most joyful news to London, especially, of the taking of Newcastle by ou● honest, active, loving and loyal brethren of Scotland, who, as they have all along, ever ●ince their first appearing in this great Cause, in a warlike man●er and posture showed themselves most zealous to God and true Religion, and therein also most brotherly to us, and free from base self-seekings and ignoble by-ends (though our most degenerous and rotten-hearted Malignants, 
The relation of the taking of Newcastle by storming it, by our brethren of Scotland.  in City, Court, and Country, have most ignominiously slandered them, and most basely and abusively struggled (but in vain, blessed be the Lord for it) to blemish their untainted honour and honesty heerin:) so, now also, in a most eminent manner, they have again made it appear to the whole world (if men would not be wilfully or maliciously blind) that they sought not their own ends, or to enrich themselves, but mainly and only God's glory, and therein, ours with their own best good; as i● this relation of this glorious and victorious conquest of the Town of Newcastle, now (by God's mighty and merciful assistance▪ and their impregnable valour and fidelity) happily subdued to the just obedience of the King and Parliament, as now I shall make manifest in this brief and faithful Narration of the taking of this strong Town by storm, which is with all convenient brevity extracted out of our brethren the Scots own Relation thereof sent to the Parliament, and the Scotch Commissioners then resident at or about Westminster, which was as followeth. Our valiant and most unwearied brethren the Scots, having in the time of their lying before this Town of Newcastle, 
The Scots pious & prudent carriage before the storming of Newcastle.  out of their Christian and tender pious pity toward the inhabitants thereof in general, and great and gracious unwillingness to shed blood, if possibly it might, by any fit and fair means, be avoided; sent divers Letters and merciful messages to the Town in general, and to and from some special cordial persons, in particular, before their summons, which afterwards was also sent unto them, but found all their Christian love and pity; partly, with stubbornness rejected, and partly with scoffs and jeers derided, but especially by the Atheistical and most desperately Malignant Major of Newcastle, Sir John Marley; all which their interchangeable Letters and Messages, containing Marleys and the Newcastelians answers, and our Scotch brethren's patient and pious replies, having been fully set forth in that particular and exact relation of all those proceedings, by our loyal brethren of Scotland, I here therefore purposely (for brevity's sake) pretermit, and shall only acquaint the Reader here, with thus much in particular: That after many interchangeable messages and motions on both sides, 
Marley the Major of Newcastle his proud & dissembling carriage toward the Scots.  and some seeming agr●ements (seeming, only, I say, on Marleys' side) and hostages mutually given, Articles of accord were demanded to be sent to the Town by noble General Lesley, which was accordingly done; and which said Articles together with the rest of the succeeding passages, or Letters sent to each other (for the further clearing of our brethren's integrity and fairness therein,) after the tendering of the Articles of agreement, I have thought fit here to insert, which were as followeth.  


Conditions wherupon the Surrender of the Town of Newcastle, and Fo●●es thereof, with all the Ordnance, Ammunition, and other Warlike furniture thereto belonging, were demanded by his Excellency, the Earl of Leven, Lord General of the Scottish Army; to be kept by him for the use of his Majesty, and the Parliament of England.  
1. THat the Officers and Soldiers who desire to go out of Town, shall have liberty to pass with their Arms, Horses, bag and baggage, to what place they please, the same not being already beleaguered, and shall have a safe convoy thither, it being within forty miles' distance, and shall be accommodate with draughts in their march.  
2. That all Strangers, Residents, Sojourners, or Inhabitants, who desire to go out of the Town, with the aforesaid Officers or Soldiers, shall have the like liberty, convoy and accommodation.  
3. That sick and hurt Soldiers shall have all necessary accommodation until their recovery, and shall have a safe conduct as aforesaid.  
4. That the Citizens, Burgesses and Inhabitants shall have their persons, houses, families and goods, kept from violence, and shall have the same free liberty of trade and commerce, as any other Town reduced to the obedience of King and Parliament.  
5. That their privileges, liberties, and jurisdiction, shall be preserved inviolate, conform to their ancient charters, in manner above written.  
6. If any of the said Citizens, Inhabitants, or others, presently within the Town, shall desire to go and live in their Country Houses; they shall have protection, and safeguard for their persons and estates.  
7. That no Billet shall be granted upon any of the Inhabitants without their consent.  
8. The whole Army shall not enter the Town, but only a competent Garrison.  
Signed, LEVEN.  
Provided always, that in case these Conditions above written be not accepted, and Hostages sent before eight a clock in the morning, the nineteenth of this instant, for surrender of the Town, at or before Monday next, they shall then be altogether void, and have no effect.  
But in place of accepting the above Conditions, (which the Governor himself did afterwards, acknowledge most honourable) they not only returned this following Answer (whereby their judicial induration, and obstinacy may appear) but the Governor likewise, the same morning, while the Army was in action, sent out a Letter to my Lord Sinclair, full of mockeries and incivilities; but before that day ended, he changed his strain, and was resolved of his scruple, whether there was such a man that had the name of Leven.   

Answer of their three Commissioners to the Lord General his last Letter, with the Articles, Octob. 19  
My Lord,  
WE received your Letter, wherein you say, we cannot make good that your Commissioners demands are against either his Majesty's honour, or the welfare of Newcastle; We will give you but one reason amongst many; whether it be for his Majesty's honour that the Town of Newcastle should be rendered to any of another Nation; nay more, if it be for the honour of the English Parliament: and that it is not for our welfare is so clear, needs no answer. And whereas you say, you wonder we are not ashamed to be so delatory, having demanded a Treaty; We say, we wonder you can be so forgetful, knowing we have your Letter to show, that the Treaty was your own motion: but for Answer to the rest, and to your Articles; We say, the delivery of Newcastle is not of so small moment, but if you intent as you say, time may well be given till monday for giving answer, for in case we should give consent to let you have this Town, there are divers more Articles than you have set down, both fit for us to demand and you to grant. Therefore if you would shun effusion of bloodshed, as you profess, forbear your acts of Hostility, until we give you Answer upon Monday, wherein we will not fail; otherwise we doubt not but God will require an account at your hands, and besides, will keep and preserve us from your fury. So expecting your Answer, We rest  
Your Friends, Jo. Marlay, Nich. Cole, G. Baker. Newcastle, 19 Octob. 1644.   

The Letter sent by the Governor to my Lord Sinclair, Octob. 19  
My Lord,  
I Have received divers Letters and Warrants subscribed by the name of Leven, but of late can hear of none that have seen such a man; besides, there is strong report he is dead: therefore to remove all scruples, I desire our Drummer may deliver one Letter to himself: thus wishing you could think on some other course to compose the differences of these sad distracted Kingdoms, than by battering Newcastle, and annoying us who never wronged any of you; for if you seriously consider, you will find that these courses will aggravate, and not moderate distempers: but I will refer all to your own consciences, and rest  
Your Friend John Marlay. Newcastle 19 Octob.    
By these former Letters, Answers, and Replies, it is more than manifest, how perversely obstinate the Enemy was, and how carefully and patiently they were sought after; but seeing their obstinacy desperate and incurable, it was full time to proceed to action; for the condition of the Army, which had endured much hardship, and of the Mines which were always in hazard of discovery, as they had formerly destroyed some seven or eight, and the approaching Winter, could not well admit of further delays; and thereupon, October 19 early in the morning, the Cannon began to play upon the walls from their several Batteries, while 8 a clock, at which time the Hostages should have come out, or otherwise they were to expect the extremities of War; but since none came, the service continued from all the Batteries, and the Regiments were drawn up; standing to their arms, while the breaches were in readiness, and the Mines sprung. About three a clock in the afternoon, the Enemy by their countermines had very near approached some chambers where the powder was lodged for blowing up the walls, which being signified to his Excellency, he forthwith ordered, that fire should be given to these two mines endangered▪ and thereafter to maintain the breaches carefully, while the general assault should be made from all quarters: a little after, the day failing, and the breaches being made, though not so large and passable as was needful for so desperate service; the word was given, and the sign made, to give fire to the rest of the Mines, and for the Regiments to advance all at once towards the breaches, and those places of the wall which were opened by the mine; but they met with no small opposition, and nothing was left undone by the Enemy to repel the fury of the assault: They played very hotly and desperately from the Castle upon the breaches, and from the ●●anking-towers of the walls with scattered shot; yet the Regiments advanced without any shrinking, though the Cannon played from many places upon their full open bodies, so that the difficile access to the breaches, and the mighty advantages of their walls and works within the Town, made a considerable loss of Soldiers and Officers of good quality; yet notwithstanding all difficulties and resistances, they acquit themselves as become a people that considered the importance of so high a cause, and minded nothing but the happiness of both Kingdoms; and after two hours very hot dispute upon the breaches, they found their first entry at the mine sprung on the West side of the Town, near to Close-gate; and after their entry, were furiously charged three several times by the horse which were in Town, but the charge was gallantly sustained and the place maintained, while the reserve of that post came to assist: thereafter they marched for the relief of the rest of the breaches, and so the Soldiers gave over and forsook the walls, and the whole body almost of the Army entering, they became Masters of the Town, which tasted of no less mercy and favour after the Victory, than they found valour in obtaining the same; for after their entry▪ the Soldiers did quite vanish, sheltering themselves in houses, the Inhabitants kept close their doors, the Regiments marched thorough the streets without any insolency or disorder, never offering once to rifle a house, or cut off either Citizen or Soldier; they were presently after their entry in peaceable possession of all the corners and streets, and on a sudden, all tumult, fear and noise, did cease. Upon the first entry, the Governor Lodovick Lyndesay, sometime Earl Crawfoord, the Lord Maxwell, Doctor Wishart, a man of a dangerous temper, who had seasoned the people both before, and the time of the siege with bitter Malignancy, Mr. Grace and Alvay, and others of the perverse crew, authors of all the evils which might justly have fall'n upon the Town, so exceedingly obstinate, according to the rule of War, did all betake themselves to the Castle, whence they cast over a white flag, and beat a Parley, but before notice could be taken thereof, all the service was near done. The principal houses of the Town were preserved from plundering by the Officers; the Common Soldiers that night, after they had long kept their arms without doing any wrong or violence, entered some houses of the meaner sort, not safeguarded, and did a little pillage, and take away the goods out of them, but less than ever any people or Army did in the like case, which was the testimony of the most Malignants and Papists themselves, expressing in these very words, that no History can parallel where less cruelty and insolency, and more mercy were shown in any Town gained by storm, which ought to be no small matter of gloriation, when the Enemies are constrained to acknowledge, that the ways and practices of those who have often declared the purity of their intentions, are now found out to be nothing different from their profession; and indeed it were to be wished that the well-affected in the Kingdom had as great feeling of the advantage given to the cause, and the good they received since the coming in of that Army to England, as the enemies to the peace and happiness of both Nations are sensible of the hurt done to them and their designs. But to return.  
The Town being that same night secured, and the Guards carefully appointed at the breaches, and by the waterside, to watch the escape of those who were within, and with so much loss and pains now caught in the snare. Next day thereafter, being the Lord's Day, his Excellency did likewise enter the Town, and with the General, Officers, and others of the Army, did go to the Church straightway, and gave thanks to God, that he was pleased, even according to the words, and wishes of their Enemies, to prosper and bless his People, according to the justness of their Cause; The Governor, who was lately so pertinacious, and high minded, that he would neither hearken himself to any thing which might tend to the preservation of the Town, but likewise published Proclamations, that none should presume to speak of any compliance to a surrender, did now become a humble suitor to the Lord General (whom he thought not to be in the world that morning) that his Excellence would be pleased to suffer him, and those that were with him in the Castle, to depart to the King's next Garrison, as may appear by the following Letter, wherein you see him a humble supplicant, though in some of his former, a scornful Prophet.  
A Letter sent by Sir John Marlay, sometimes Governor of Newcastle, to his Excellence, from the Castle, the day after the Town was taken. Octob. 20.  
My Lord,  
ALthough you have the fortune of War against me (and that I might I confess have had honourable terms from your Excellency:) Yet I hope your Nobleness will not think worse of me, for doing my endeavours to keep the Town, and to discharge the trust reposed in me, having had strong reasons so to do, as is known to many; And now whereas I am compelled to betake myself to this Castle, I shall desire, that I and those with me, may have our Liberty, and your Licence, to stay, or go out of the Town with your safe Pass, to his Majesty's next Garrison, which is not beleaguered, with our Horses, Pistols, and Swords; And to have 14 day's time to dispatch our Journey, so many as please to go. And truly, my Lord, I am yet confident to receive so much favour from you, as that you will take such care of me, as that I shall receive no wrong from the ignoble spirits of the vulgar sort; for I doubt no other, I must confess, I cannot keep it long from you, yet I am resolved, rather than to be a spectacle of misery and disgrace to any, I will bequeath my soul to him that gave it, and then refer my body to be a spectacle to your severity; But upon these terms abovesaid, I will deliver it to you, and so entreating your Answer, I rest,  
Your friend and servant, John Marley. From the Castle in Newcastle, the 21 of Octob. 1644.  
For his Excellency, the Earl of Leven, General of the Scottish Army.  
Compare this Letter with that which he sent out the day before, then look what a day may produce; And now could there be any thing more just, than to deny favour to a man so eminent in all the ways of Malignancy, so wicked an instrument; One who had so exceedingly provoked the Army, and had slighted all gracious offers of Peace? He is now overtaken in his season, and as God in his Justice had decreed, and his Servants foretold, those enemies to the peace of the Kingdom in these parts, are overthrown, and were forced to surrender the Castle, and come out upon mercy; Sir John Marley was committed to his house by a strong guard, to defend him from the fury of the incensed people, for he is hated, and abhorred of all, and he brought many Families to ruin. The rest that were in the Castle, have likewise in constrained humility, submitted themselves, and are rendered Prisoners, though not many days before, these peaceable Divines taught the people, that it was more lawful, one of them to eat another, than to hearken to the Scottish Traitors, or comply with them in any sort.  
The Town is now in as good condition, as ever any Town reduced by the extremity of War, and thereupon exposed to the rapine of Soldiers, which oft times is unavoidable. All care was had to preserve the houses and goods of the Inhabitants, so far as possibly could be done; and to that effect, many Proclamations made, That no Officer nor Soldier should presume to trouble nor plunder the house of any, under the pain of death. And that better obedience might be given thereto, and all occasions of tumults, wrongs and oppressions might the better be avoided, It was Ordered that no Officer, nor Soldier should stay in the Town, without special Order, but to return to the Leaguer, and his former Quarters; And likewise for the further weal and ease of the Town, the Quarters of the whole Army, are enlarged, and none ordained to stay in Town, but the proper Garrison.  
This is the true Relation of the success of the Scottish Army against Newcastle, whereby it would appear, that God delights to cooperate with his Armies. The best use that can be made thereof, and of all other Victories, is, to make them steps of advancement for the Reformation begun, and great encouragement to expede the Work in hand, and beat down all difficulties.  
A Letter from the Committee at the Scottish Army, to the Committee of both Kingdoms.  
Right Honourable,  
WE know not any better use you or we can make of the great success wherewith it hath pleased God to bless our attempts against this Town, than to make it evident to the world, that Truth and Peace are the utmost of our desires, and designs. For this purpose, we must uncessantly renew our former desires to you, That all other Affairs whatsoever set aside, you will so far take to heart the settling of matters of Religion in the Worship of God, and Government of his House in this Kingdom, as you may in your own, and our Names, become earnest solicitors with the Assembly of Divines, to put that business to a period, and with the Parliament, that where the foundation is laid by the Assembly, their Authority be not wanting for the completing of the Work; no greater encouragement than this can come to the hearts of all those that are engaged in this Cause with you, nor can any means be so powerful, to remove these great prejudices raised against our Cause, by the abundance and variety of Sectaries, Separatists, and Schismatics living amongst us, to the great scandal of the Gospel, and professors thereof. This being done, we may with the greater confidence expect a blessing upon our endeavours for Peace, for which, as no success can alter our desires, so we are confident, you are using all expedition possible, for expediting your Propositions thereof, that they may be dispatched to his Majesty, whose favourable acceptance is prayed for thereunto, by  
Your affectionate Friends, and Servant, Sinclare J. P. D. Newcastle 23 Octob. 1644.  
See here, now then (pious and impartial Reader) whether England hath not most just cause, everlastingly to bless the Lord our God, in working thus gloriously for us, by these our loyal Brethren, 
What great & most just cause England hath, for ever, to love most entirely their faithful brethren of Scotland.  and eternally and most entirely to love and embrace them, in our best affections, who have not only thus extraordinarily laid out themselves, and carried their lives in their hands for us, and exposed themselves to such and so many marvellous dangers of death and destruction: but also so sweetly, preciously and piously declared (as in this their last Letter is so clear and conspicuous) their only aim in all this, and the rest of their toils and labour of love, to be God's glory, the true Religions and pure Reformations splendour, and the just Laws and Liberties of Subjects firm and faithful establishment; and whether our most wicked and wretched Malignants slanderous mouths are not most abundantly stopped, 
Malignants most slanderous mouths justly stopped.  to Gods eternal glory, and all good men's just rejoicing, let all that hear of these truths, righteously judge. But now to proceed.  
About the 25 of this instant came certain intelligence, by Letters out of the West to London, that Sir Richard Cholmley (Brother to Apostate Sir Hugh Cholmley) with about 2 or 300 Horse about Colliton, Axmister, Bemester and other places, on the confines of Dorsetshire, 
A brave exploit performed by renowned Col. Seel●y, Governor in Lyme.  had driven away many Cattle from those Country people; whereupon brave Colonel Seeley, the most renowned Governor of Lyme, having intelligence thereof, drew out a party, who soon discovering the plunderers, fell upon them, took 56 of them, horse and arms, rescued all the plunder they had got, and so routed the rest, that they all fled and dispersed themselves several ways. Among the prisoners taken, as aforesaid, were 2 Captains, and 10 other Commanders and Officers, who were all carried to Lyme, and all the plundered cattle were mercifully restored to their owners; Cholmley himself fled, but was shot in his shoulder, as was confessed by the Prisoners taken, and many others of the Enemy sore wounded.  
Much about the same time, information being given to the Parliament of intolerable cruelties, and outrageous insolences committed by barbarous Irish Rebels (Oxford's good subjects) and some of the very Natives of heathenish Wales, 
The most just reasons of an Ordinance of Parliament against Irish Rebels taken prisoners by Sea or Land, who are to have no quarter granted them.  by burning and destroying the Corn on the ground, stripping all sorts of both sexes stark naked, stigmatising some, half hanging others, and then suffering them to live, or rather, to languish in that condition, all which was informed, I say, by Letters to the Parliament, by divers honest inhabitants of those parts, and by some of the Committees of the Parliament, at Haverford West, in South-Wales. And further information being given to the Parliament, of one Colonel Mac Mayler, an Irish-Rebell, (another of King Charles his good Catholic Subjects) taken prisoner in Yorkshire, by the Lord Fairfaxes forces, under the Command of that valiant and faithful Commander, Colonel Lambert; as also the sad confirmation of such like cruelties of the Irish-Rebels at Boulton, and Leverpool, in Lancashire, all which being as fresh bleeding wounds, still in the sad memory of all people, and now at this time most seriously considered of, and well weighed by our most prudent Parliament; Both Houses heerupon passed an Ordinance of Parliament, requiring all Commanders in Chief in any part of the Kingdom, to give no Quarter to any Irish-Rebell taken by Sea or by Land, in any part of the Kingdom; And because all Soldiers in all parts of the kingdom might take notice hereof, Letters were Ordered to be sent down by the Committee of both kingdoms, to all principal Commanders with that Ordinance enclosed in them, for the more certain and exact execution thereof accordingly.  
And about the 26 of this instant October, the Parliament understanding by good intelligence, 
Certain intelligence brought to London that ours and the King's forces were within 2 or 3 miles of Newberry, and like to be engaged.  that the King and his forces were about Newberry, and Dennington Castle, and that some part of the Parliaments Army was upon one side of Newberry, near about the place where the fierce battle was fought between them the last year, and that the rest of our Army was within 2 or 3 miles at farthest from Newberry, between the King's Army and Oxford, and that both the Armies being so near each other, there was like to be a speedy engagement between them; The Parliament, therefore, desired the Assembly of Divines at Westminster, on Monday October 28, to turn their other intended businesses and affairs of that day into prayers for a blessing on our Armies, which accordingly they did. And the same Monday night, God's providence so ordered it, that the Lord General's Scout-Master, Mr. Bedford, came to Town, and brought certain information to the Committee of both Kingdoms, of a brave defeat given by his Excellency's Forces to the King's Army, near Dennington-Castle, which also was confirmed by a Letter directed to the honourable Speaker of the House of Commons, sent from 3 or 4 Eminent Commanders and Officers in Arms, whose names were subscribed thereto; A Copy of which Letter, being a full and complete relation of the fight, I have here, for the Readers better content and fuller satisfaction, inserted, which was as followeth.  
Honourable Sir,  
THough our other employments in and about the Army, may excuse us in point of news, 
The Copy of a Letter sent to the honourable Speaker of the House of Commons, relating the whole fight at Newberry, 28 Octob. 1644.  yet being eye-witnesses of this late fight, and knowing your kind acceptance of some presents, though without the circle, and especially to express our joy for this success which the Lord of Hosts, upon his own day has vouchsafed us; We presume to press in with the crowd, and to make it more clear, shall give you the preceding circumstances. After a weeks tedious, but speedy march of my Lord General's Infantry, and one night's refreshment at Redding, in two days farther progress, we drew up before Newberry, as near the Town as the Enemy's Cannon would suffer; This was upon Friday the 25 of Octob. 
The King in Newberry.  The King kept within the Town, guarded by his Artillery, but his body of Horse and Foot drew out into Speenfield, the midway betwixt the Town and Castle, both to make his Army more numerous, and also to embattle them in a place of extraordinary advantage. That day afforded nothing save an interview, (the interposing river hindering our desired fight) on their side appeared rather a declining to be engaged, either that their numbers were not equal, or from an expectation of rupert's advance with 3000 Horse or Dragoones, and the return of the Earl of Northampton, 
The Enemy's strength at Newberry, was 8000 foot and 5000 horse.  from Banbury with a 1000 The Enemy's strength is reported to have been 8000 Foot, and 5000 Horse; which albeit a gallant Army, yet upon our drawing into battalia, they durst not take the field, but to counterpoise our numbers with his Stratagems, he fell mainly to fortify the Town, especially the avenues, and having raised his batteries and lined the hedges, he stood upon his guard, and with some great p●ices, where he saw the biggest bodies and most advantage, he sent liberally some of his bullets among us, 
God, here, took more care for his servants, than the King did of his best Subjects.  which killed 2 or 3 Horse, but hurt not their Riders. For many hours some parties of Horse skirmisht betwixt both the Armies; in which play we had the best on our part, but one of our men fell; of theirs 4 or 5. of which, one had been knighted. It being impossible to engage them without much hazard, that night, the greater part of our Army marched unto Cheveley. The horse commanded by Sir William Waller, and Sir William Belfore; the foot by Sergeant Major General Skippon, whilst the other encamped before the East-end of the Town, and was ordered by the Earl of Manchester, 
Our Army was necessitated to quarter all night in the open field.  at one same time they had all agreed to storm the Garrison on both sides. That night and the next we quartered in the open field, but neither the coldness of the weather, nor want of usual provision, any whit disanimated the Soldier, the earnest expectation of fight swallowed up all other extremities; Howbeit, most of them had 3 day's provision prepared by Command in his snapsack. By daybreak, upon Sunday, the horse and Foot commanded by Sir William Waller, and Major General Skippon, 
Ours took 2 or 3 cart loads of the King's provision, and 100 horse and foot of the enemies.  were upon their March, and in 4 hours had surrounded Dennington-Castle, and made their approach toward the West of Newberry. By the way we intercepted 2 or 3 Carts of the Enemy's provision, intended, they said, for his Majesty, but in respect an unworthy race about him, were to have shared therein, and that our men more needed it, we disposed of it to ourselves; To recompense which, they fell upon our Rear from the Castle and took 10 or 12 of ours prisoners. Upon this March we received the report that Newcastle was taken by storm▪ and the Ulster Rebels in Ireland, totally defeated; happy news unto us, and of a double use to our engagement. It was one of the clock ere the Train and Rear came up, and near 3 ere we could be put into Battalia. 
The fight begun.  With extraordinary shouts, and other testimonies of courage and joy, the Western-body advanced, and the forlorn Hopes of horse quickly began the fight, which with as much eagerness was seconded by the foot, 
The fight maintained for at least 3 hours' space, with admittable courage & fierceness on both sides.  so as, for 3 hours at least, the fight was maintained with as much resolution and bravery on our side, and desperateness on the other, as hath been seen since the commencement of these Wars; the Cannon and small shot on both sides firing with as quick a motion as was possible to be done by Souldier●, and amongst the foot, to speak impartially, his Excellency's Regiment did most eminently well, of whom especially and of the rest, we can speak very justly, we neither saw man nor party, horse or foot, either to desert his duty or dishearten his fellow. About the midst of the fight the Earl of Cleveland, and some other of the Enemies prime Commanders rode among our Soldiers, 
The Earl of Cleveland & others taken prisoners.  ask them, Wherefore they would fight against their own men? but being demanded the word and not knowing it, divers of them were knocked down from off their horses, and the Earl of Cleveland himself, and some other Officers were taken prisoners. And after a long and hot dispute, we beat the Enemy first from their works, and then from their Ordnance, 9 in number; 
9 of our brave pieces of Ordnance, which had been lost in Cornwall, here, now recovered. our men fought like devils, as the Cornish Soldiers cried our, running away.  Our forces were no sooner possessed of the Ordnance, (which were a part of those which we lost in Cornwall) but our Western sparks, with exceeding great joy, hug'd and kissed them, and cried out; Now will we show them a Cornish hop; and on the other side, many of the Cavaliers most fearfully threw down their Arms and ran away, crying out, Devils, Devils, they fight like devils; for, ours gave no Quarter to any whom they knew to be of the Cornish. In which fierce fight and brave deportment of ours, we lost a few men, and with or among them, Captain Cawler, a brave Gentleman of Glam●rganshire, who by an honourable and triumphant hazard, bequeathed the thing adventured to us with his life also, an expression sufficient fully to entitle himself, True to his Charge, notwithstanding his captivity in Cornwall. The day was of so much discontent to the King, that wrapping up his losses with the night, 
The King ●●ed out of Newberry with only one Troop of horse.  an hour after midnight, he marched (or rather fled) out of the Town, with an attendant Troop only, toward Winchester, and sent up his Cannon, Carriages, and Baggage, to the Castle, where (at daybreak) we saw them placed. Upon the first intelligence of their departure, Colonel Cromwell followed the body of the Enemy, a hours before day, the issue of which, as yet, we hear not of. Our men are full of Spirit, and extraordinarily heightened with this Victory. The Enemy hath little to support them but their Rodomants. In the mean time, as an addition and signal of good success, we have (as I touched before) the Earl of Cleveland prisoner, taken by a Lieutenant of Colonel Barkleys, 
General goring brother shot dead in the fight.  who wonders how General Goring escaped our hands, but his Brother paid his account, being shot dead as he charged, and most of his Troop were cut off, and Major trevilian, and divers other, whose bodies are seen, but names, as yet, undiscovered. Above 200 were slain on the ground, and 300 taken prisoners, 
Prisoners t●ken at Newberry fight.  whereof these, in special, by name; The Earl of Cleveland, Captain Philpot, Lieutenant Harper, Lieutenant Rouen, Cornet Whealand, Quartermaster Ironmonger, Quartermaster Campion, Quarter master Nicholas, Mr. John Percy; all these of the Earl of cleveland's Brigade, and 38 Troopers of the same Brigade. Taken prisoners of Sir Ralph Hoptons' Regiment, Captain Elmes, a Captain of Horse, Mr. Simon Court, Quartermaster to Hoptons' own Troop; Edward filips, Henry Dimmo●k, Hugh Pope, Gent. of Arme●, and divers other Troopers. Colonel Philpot, Captain Mildem●y, Captain N●vet, Mr. Richard Niston, Mr. John Curtis, Mr. Edward Archer, and divers other Gentl. of Arms, and Reformadoes, besides (as I said before) 300 Common Soldiers.  

The King flying out of Newberry reviles the Major.  And it was credibly reported by good testimony, that at the instant of his Majesty's flight from Newberry, he complained of the Major, Townsmen, and Inhabitants of Newberry, saying, that they were most pestilent Roundheads, and that they were not so loyal as his subjects of Cornwall, who used to give him intelligence upon all occasions. There were also taken, at least 2000 Arms at this fight, and the Kings, and General Forths' Coaches, 
Prizes-taken at & about Newb.  and divers sumpture-horses laden with rich prize; and upon the consideration of this great and good success of this our Army at Newberry, and the other of our brethren of Scotland, at Newcastle; An Order was agreed on by both the Houses of Parliament, 
An Order of Parliament for a day of public Thanksgiving to God 〈◊〉 brave defeat, & happy Victory.  that public Thanks should be given to God in all Churches in London and Westminster, on Tuesday then ensuing, which was the 5 of November, being the day of solemn annual thanksgiving for England's deliverance from the most horrid and exorbitant Popish Gun-powder-Treason, which sacrifice of Thanksgiving for these 2 foresaid Victories, was, on the said day accordingly performed.  
But, Oh our unhappiness, that ever it should be justly said of us, 
A just check to our improvidence in not improving this braveadvantage as we might have done.  as it was of Hannibal that great Carthaginian Conqueror and scourge of the Romans! Vincerescis Hannibal, Vtivictoriâ nescis. O that we should not only not prosper in this Victory, according to the admirable advantage, which God had put into our hands, but that we should suffer the Enemy to rally and recrute their Force●, and as it most unhappily fell out (Quo fato, aut q●â fraud, nescio,) at Dunnington-castle, shortly after, where they greatly and most grossly recovered much of their losses, and our, then▪ famous and formidable Army was (to our shame and sorrow be it spoken) most strangely baffled and abused, even to their faces, we standing still and looking on; But enough and too much of this, and now to proceed.  
About the 28 of this instant also came certain intelligence, by Letters from Newcastle, to the Committee of both Kingdoms, that the Castle, within the Town of Newcastle, was for certain taken by our noble brethren of Scotland, and that all within the Castle, who had fl●d in thither, 
The Castle in the Town of Newcastle taken by our brethren of Scotland.  at the taking of the Town, surrendered both the Castle and themselves to the mercy of those our very merciful brethren of Scotland, wherein were taken several prisoners of quality, and who they intended should all have legal trial both English and Scottish; but their own Native Scots they speedily sent away into Scotland, and the English (to be adjudged by the known Laws of England) they sent to London. The names of the most eminent men taken, 
The names of the prisoners taken in the Castle.  then, in the Castle, were these, Sir John Marley, the atheistical Major and Governor of the Town, a most pestilent and desperate malignant and enemy to all goodness; the Lord ●raford, the Lord Maxwell, the Lord Ree, 3 Lords of Scotland, and all 3 most desperate incendiaries, together with divers others, prime Commanders and Officers in arms.  
Much also about the same time, we were most certainly informed by several Letters out of Lincolnshire, that his Majesty had sent directions to all the Commanders of his Garrisons at Newark, Belvi●-castle, and others thereabout, with special command speedily to join into a considerable body, and to march for the relief of Crowland, and then to fall into the Associated Counties, which accordingly, and instantly they put in practice, and for which purpose, they met together in a great body, 
A most famous defeat given to the Enemies at Beaver Vale, by Sir Jo. Gells, & Sir Tho. Fairfax his forces.  and came into the Vale of Beaver, from whence they intended to march speedily toward Crowland; But, loyal, active, and valiant Sir John Gells, and Sir Thomas Fairfaxes forces, being timely informed thereof, appointed also speedily to meet together, and to fall upon the Enemy in the said V●le of Beaver, which, accordingly they performed, with singular good speed and good success, and bravely surprised the greatest part of them, took Major Pudsey, and 2 Colonels, about 800 horse, 
800 horse and 400 prisoners taken at Bever-Vale.  and 400 prisoners, and by this means most happily frustrated both the certain relieving of Crowland, and especially prevented that most desperate and dangerous design (as it might unquestionably have proved) of breaking in, like a furious overflowing flood, into the Associated Counties, a mercy most worthy our extraordinary thankfulness to the Lord our God, the most gracious and vigilant Watchman of the English Israel.  
And about the 30 of this instant October, we were credibly assured by Letters from Wareham in the West, that that most valiant and faithful Commander Colonel Sydenham, had fallen upon Sir Lewes Dives Forces at Crew, in Dorsetshire, and had a brave bickering with them, where he wounded his Lieutenant Colonel, took an 100 horse, 40 prisoners, above a 100 Arms, and routed and put to flight 400 horse and foot. 
Colonel Syden●ams good service in the West  And the same Letters also farther certified, that Sir Anthony Ashley-Cooper, with 1500 horse and foot from several Garrisons thereabout in Dorsetshire, had then taken the field to encounter with Sir Lewis Dives, who was endeavouring to fortify some places in those parts; whereof more in its due and proper place.  
The good news from our Armies rested not here; for, about the 30 also of this instant, came certain intelligence to the Parliament, signifying, 
Leverpool in Lancashire surrendered up to Sir Jo. Meldrum  under the hand of that pious, prudent, and victorious Commander Sir William Brereton, that Leverpool in Lancashire, was delivered up to brave, and ever to be honoured Sir John Meldrum. The English Soldiers therein, some 2 or 3 days before having combined together, came away out of the Town, and drove away with them the Cattle that was thereabout, and the Irish seeing themselves left, only with some few English Commanders, they also being in great straits, and knowing no quarter would be given them, if they stood it out, they therefore also voluntarily came forth of the Town, 
The manner how Leverpool was taken.  and cast themselves at Sir John M●●drums feet, and had their lives granted them thereupon, before the Ordinance of Parliament against the Irish, came to his hands or knowledge. And heerupon the Commanders also were enforced instantly to surrender the Town, wherein were taken prisoners, Sir Robert Byron, Governor; Colonel Cuthert Clifton, Robert Bambridge, Major; 
Prisoners taken & the goods of the Town recovered by Sea.  Hugh Anderson Lieutenant Colonel, 14 Captains, ●nd many other Officers in Arms. Most of the choice Goods which were in the Town, they had shipped in small Barks and Boats, thinking to have stolen away in the night time, by our Ships, to Beu-Morrice; but some of the well-affected in the Town, having given timely notice thereof, our ships manned out long boats, and took all their said Goods from them, to a very considerable value.  
Nay, yet, God's goodness to the Parliament, and his extraordinary blessing on their forces rested not here; for, much about the foresaid time we were certainly informed, by Letters from Newcastle, to the Committee of both Kingdoms, that noble and renowned General Leven, carried on businesses so prudently, in the capitulation between his Excellency and the Governor of Tinmouth-castle, 
Tinmouth-castle surrendered unto General Leven, with 38 pieces of Ordnance in it, and great store of o●her Arms & Ammunition.  that the said Castle was (Octob. 27. 1644.) surrendered to his Excellency, and that therein he found 38 pieces of Ordnance, 50 barrels of powder, 500 Muskets, a great number of Pikes, and great store of shot and other sorts of provision. And heerin, now (in brief) we may see the great goodness of God thus admirably completing our comforts to us, by several most wise providential degrees; for, though the Town of Newcastle was taken, and in our full possession, yet it was of little use unto us till the Castle therein was surrendered; and though both this Town and Castle were taken, yet they were not of any considerable and desired use for public Trade by shipping, till Tinmouth castle was surrendered, 
The most wise & providential degrees of God's completing his mercies to us.  which commands the entrance into that River, so as, no Ships can pass it but with great hazard; but now (Gods name be ever glorified) all let● and obstructions to a free Trade into that Town are quite taken away, and any ships may pass and repass most freely and fearlessly; and the Ordinance of Parliament (formerly inhibiting all commerce and Trading with Newcastle, whiles it was in the power of the Royalists) was shortly after by Both Houses of Parliament repealed, and full power and licence now granted of free Trading thither again by authority of Parliament.  
And now upon the 31 of this instant October, being the last wednesday of this Month, we had the Parliamentary monthly Fast solemnised, before and close upon which, the Lord did most graciously give us, both, admirable preventions of our prayers, and singular returns of them, 
This Month's day of humiliation was also (most justly) turned as much into a day of exultation. Reverend Mr. Cases baptising of the surrender of Newcastle, with the name of G●d, a Multitude.  after prayers, even all along (save only in that unhappy self-failing of our forces at Dunnington-castles and Bazing-houses, relief, by our own undoubted remissness, if not worse,) whereby, I say, our said day of Monthly humiliation, was, (and that most deservedly) turned as much into a day of gratulation, rejoicing, and praising the Lord our God, as of Fasting and Praying to God, both for that famous Victory and surrender of the Town of Newcastle, to our loyal and lowing brethren of Scotland, which, (as learned, reverend and truly religious Mr. Case justly said) we may most worthily baptise and christian, with the name of G●d, a Multitude, for, after it, we received a multitude of Mercies from the bountiful hands of our good God; for, presently upon that surrender fell out all the succeeding memorable mercies, which have been in this month's passages forementioned; as namely, the last famous Victory or defeat given to our Enemies, the King's Forces, at Newberry; the taking of the Castle, in Newcastle-Town, and of Tinmouth-castle, shortly after; the happy and remarkable unbloody surrender of the Town of Leverpool, in Lancashire; and the famous defeat given to the Newark forces, by our most valiant and vigilant Forces of Leicester and Lincolnshire, all fore-specified. Heer, therefore, good Reader, I shall desire thee together with me, to make a short stand and stay, to see and admire this Months most admirable wonder, also, of the Burning-Bush, not only, not Consumed, but even in the midst of most furious flames and conflagrations, 
The Burning-Bush not consumed.  as it were growing green, still, and waxing more and more fair and flourishing:  
Witness, 
1.  I say, most conspicuously and undeniably, that further discovery of that desperate and dangerous plot and design, 
A brief & most grateful recapitulation of all the memorable mercies of this month of October.  closely and craftily carried on for our inevitable ruin and destruction, had it taken on our Army in Cornwall, in the West, but marveilously prevented by God's good providence, infusing such courage and faithfulness into the hearts of our Commanders and Soldiers.  
Witness also, 
2.  the most successful proceedings of the affairs of our best beloved brethren in the kingdom of Scotland; together with the many mischievous Array-men, surprised in the Northern parts of our kingdom by the well-affected-people of those parts, and putting them into the power and custody of renowned General Lesley.  
Also the taking of Radcastle, 
3.  in North-wales, by Sir Thomas Middleton; together with the Parliaments most pious and prudent completing and publishing of that blessed Ordinance for Ordination of Ministers, in and about London, in a most pious and Apostolical way and order.  
Witness also that brave and most famous defeat given to the Enemies, 
4.  by that most renowned and ever to be honoured and loved Commander, Colonel massy, at Beechley, where the said brave Colonel was admirably preserved both from death and danger; Together with the surprisal of the Irish ship at White-haven in Cumberland; the brave prize taken by renowned Colonel Syden●am, Governor of Pool in the West; and another also by most valiant and loyal Colonel Lambert in the North.  
And witness Gods special providence and particular love and regard of the good, 
5.  not only of this Church and State in general, but also of his peculiar treasure, and holy hidden ones in special, viz. in the redemption and deliverance from a long and tedious captivity in the North, of one of his most faithful servants and sufferers, for his Truth and Gospel, namely, Dr. John Bastwick, lately, then, a prisoner in Knaresborough castle in Yorkshire; Together with the farther brave performances of noble and renowned Sir Thomas Middleton in North-wales; 
6.  And all the rest of the most remarkable and memorable Victories, I say, of our most worthily ever to be honoured and beloved brethren the Scots, at Newcastle, and the other most memorable successes of our Armies, as is forementioned; all which being put together, and seriously considered do abundantly make good the truth of this our Nations wonder, 
The Burning-Bush not consumed.  in reference unto Moses his great wonder of his Burning-Bush not consumed, and therefore gives us just occasion in admiration and contemplation thereof, to break forth into a just & ingenuous confession of the faithfulness of God's promise to his Church and children by the Prophet Isaiah, by whom the Lord tells his people. 
Isa. 54. 16, 17.  Behold, I have created the Smith that bloweth the coale● in the fire, and that bringeth forth an instrument for his work; and I have created the waster to destroy. But, no weapon that is form against thee, shall prosper, and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgement thou shalt condemn. And as the Lord says in the 15 verse of this foresaid Chapter: 
Ibid. ver. 15.  Behold, they shall surely gather together, but not by me: Whosoever, therefore, shall gather together against thee, shall fall, for thy sake. And thus, hath the Lord most faithfully done for us, in these our days, even for us, as sinful and undeserving a people as were his Israelites of old; And therefore, let us in holy exultation, with the pious Prophet David, sing and say to the Lords everlasting praise and glory. 
Psal. 18. 31. 46  O who is God, save only the Lord, or who is a rock, save our God? The Lord liveth, and blessed be our rock, and let the God of our Salvation be exalted and praised for ever. But now to proceed, and go forward to the farther progress and prosecution of our just admiration of this our national wonder, in the next succeeding Month of November, 1644.  
ANd first I shall begin with a brave exploit performed by the forces of that valiant Patriot, 
Novemb. 1644.  and brave Commander Colonel Ridgeley, a principal and prudent Commander in the Earl of Denbighs Army about Staffordshire, who about the beginning of this Month of November, understanding that the Enemy in those parts began to stir apace, 
A brave exploit performed by Captain Stones, one of valiant Col. Ridgele yes Officers in arms, against the Enemy about Eccleshall  and to molest the peace and people of the Country thereabout; and especially that the Enemy from Tongue-castle, and Linshall Garrison, were got about Eccleshall, and had there gotten and taken away all the Cattle and horse that they could light upon in those parts, to the number of about 200 at least; He therefore, I say, sent out Captain Stones a brave Officer in Arms of his Regiment, who with a considerable party, being upon their March, by his Scouts discovering which way the said Enemy moved, hasted after them, and having overtaken them, he most valiantly advanced up unto them, and with his men fell most courageously upon them, and presently put them to the rout, took 27 of them prisoners, slew 2 or 3 of them on the place, and wounded many, among which prisoners, he took Sergeant Major Fleetwood, Sir Richard Fleetwoods' Son, and one Almand, a most desperate and active Cavalier, who had done much mischief in those parts, who also was sorely wounded, and rescued all the 200 horse and Cattle from them, and restored them to their right Owners, at their return home. And about the same time Captain Wagstaffe and Captain Wakefield, with part of Colonel Chadwicks, and Colonel Leighs Troops, went forth together in their assignations about Hampton, and in their March, hearing that some of the Enemies were quartered thereabout, they marched up unto them, fell upon them in their quarters, took about 13 or 14 of them prisoners, and brought away above 20 good horse to Stafford with them.  
And although I briefly mentioned a mixture of Thanksgiving together with our last day of the monthly Humiliation, in the conclusion of the month of October last, for the late, many, and great Victories given by our good God to the Parliaments forces; yet now give me leave, good Reader, here to acquaint thee, that our ever to be honoured and most pious Worthies in Parliament, Ordered by special appointment that the 5 of this instant November, which was the former anniversary-day of public Thanksgiving, 
This 5 of November a day of public thanksgiving for divers great and famous victories.  for our most happy deliverance from the Popish Gunpowder-plot, should also be a particular day of solemn Thanksgiving to the Lord (and was accordingly performed) for our most memorable Victory at Newberry; for the taking in of the Town of Newcastle, and the Castle therein also, together with the taking of Tinmouth castle, the yielding up of Leverpool to Sir John Meldrum, and the brave defeat given to our Cavalierian adversaries in Lincolnshire: Which said day of Thanksgiving for all these rare and famous Victories, was very solemnly kept throughout the Cities of London and Westminster, with Sermons in all Churches both forenoon and afternoon, 
The great triumph in the City of London, on this solemn day of thanksgiving.  with ringing of Bells, shooting off Ordnance at all the Forts round about the City, and making many and mighty bonfires at night. And to add to all this day's triumph, as the Lord Major, accompanied with the Aldermen and Sheriffs his Brethren, together with the several Companies of the said City of London, then attending him, came back from the Sermon at Paul's Church, through Cheapside, there was (just in the place where once that abominable monument of Idolatry, the Cross stood) a frame of firre-wood set up, and upon it divers Popish pictures, and Romish Relics, Books, Beads, and Crucifixes were set on fire and bravely burnt to ashes, making a most beautiful bonfire, as they all past along Cheapside by it. Praised be the Lord, who caused us thus justly to rejoice.  
About the 8 of this instant November, we received credible information out of the West, by a Letter from a Commander of note and quality, of the storming and taking of a strong Garrison of the Enemies, which was Sir John Strangewaies House in Dorsetshire, and had been a very ill neighbour to our renowned Garrison of Lime, which service was most bravely performed by that valiant and loyal Patriot, Sir Anthony Ashley Cooper, Commander in chief for the Parliament, in that County, a Copy of which Letter, relating the gallant service performed therein, 
The Enemy's Garrison at Sir Jo. Strangeways House in Dorsetstire, stormed & taken by Sir Anthony Ashley-Cooper.  for the Readers better content and satisfaction, I have here inserted.  
Sir, etc.  
We marched from Dorchester to Abot●bury, where Colonel James Strangewayes and all his Regiment were in Garrison, they held both the House and the Church which joined to the House; It was night before we summoned it, and they in a scorn refused the summons of Sir Anthony Ashley-Cooper, a very active and noble Gentleman, our Commander in chief, whereupon he sent his Major General with a considerable party against the Church, who presently assaulting it took it, and all the men in it prisoners, without the loss of one man of ours. After this we summoned them in writing, the second time, to yield on fair quarter, or else to expect no mercy, if they forced us to storm them. To this also they disdained to return an Answer; upon which denya●● we▪ fell on, 
The storming of this Garrison continued 6 hours together  and after as hot a storm as ever I heard of, for six hours together, it pleased God, at length to give us the place, when by no other means we could get it, we found a way by desperately flinging in fired turf-fagots into the windows; and the fight, thus, grew so hot, that our said Commander in chief (who to his perpetual renown behaved himself most gallanly in this service) was forced to bring up his men within Pistol shot of the House, and could hardly, then, get them to stay and stand the brunt, yet in all this time (God be praised) we lost but 3 men, and some few wounded. Now, when as by the foresaid hot assault, half of the house was on a light fi●e, and not to be quenched, then at length, Colonel James Strangewayes called out for quarter, which our Commander in chief was resolved no man in the House should have, in regard they had so desperately and disdainfully scorned his summons, and also in regard that the Cavaliers custom was observed to be to keep such paltry houses and pilfering Garrisons against any of our Armies, that they might thereby be sure to do us mischief, and (by reason of our observed clemency) to have their lives at last granted to them; But some of our Commanders upon one side of the House, contrary to the mind of our said Commander in chief, and against the opinion of all the Officers, in his absence, had given them quarter, which being granted them, we instantly rushed into the House, which being of a light fire, and their Magazine in it (I believe rather accidentally, than as some reported, 
Between 30 & 40 of our men blown up with powder in the taking of this house.  purposely and treacherously) it set on fire 4 or 5 barrels of Gunpowder, and blew up between 30 and 40 of our men, yet the Lord be blessed, myself and the rest were even miraculously preserved. We took prisoners, Colonel James Strangewayes, Sir John Strangewayes his Son, Governor of this Garrison, his Major, and 3 Captains; and not 3 of his whole Regiment, but were either killed or taken, and the House was wholly burnt down to the ground, and we thereby freed of a pestilent and pernicious neighbour. Colonel Bruen and Mr. Crompton, behaved themselves very worthily in this action, and Captain Star incomparably bravely.  
Yours, C. A.  
November the 12, we were for certain informed by Letters out of the North, that a party of the Enemy's horse advanced from Skipton and Knaresborough in Yorkshire, and fell upon the Parliaments guard before Helmesley Castle, intending to have raised that siege. Whereupon 240 of the most noble and renowned Lord Fairfaxes Horse under the Command of Major Sanderson, were sent to relieve them, 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy at Helmsley castle.  but our valiant Forces before Helmesley had quite routed the Enemy before their said help came unto them, and pursued the Enemy over Black-Hambleton, and took prisoners, 1 Captain, 5 or 6 Leivtenants, one Cornet, one Ensign, a Quartermaster, and 44 Troopers; there were about; or 6 slain on the place, and very many sore wounded; ours also took 80 Horse, together with a great quantity of Meal, Salt, and other provisions designed for the relief of Helmesley. All which was performed without the loss of any, save only Captain Lieutenant Frampton, Lieutenant Shepperson, and 3 common Soldiers.  
About the 16 of this instant, both the Houses of Parliament passed an Ordinance for the re-establishing of free Trade again at Newcastle, 
Free Trading with Newcastle reestablished by the Parlia.  which now lately had beer most happily reduced (by God's blessing on the valour and magnanimity of our loyal Brethren of Scotland) to the obedience of the Parliament, which said Ordinance, for the Readers fuller satisfaction and content, I have here thought fit to insert, verbatim, as it was Printed and published by Authority of Parliament.  

Die Jovis, Novemb. 14. 1644.  
Where as the Lords and Commons assembled in Parliament, by an Ordinance of the 14 of January, 1642. did for several reasons in the said Ordinance mentioned, prohibit all ships and other vessels to carry provision of victuals, arms or money unto Newcastle, Sunderland, and Blyth, or make return of any Coals or Salt from either the said places, under pain of seizure of the said ships, vessels, and their l●ding: And whereas by the good providence and blessing of Almighty God, and the endeavours of our brethren of Scotland, the Town and Port of Newcastle upon Tyne, and Castle of Tinmouth, are lately rescued out of the hands of the Enemy, and reduced to the obedience of the King and Parliament: The Inhabitants of which places, by reason of the rapine and spoil of the Enemy, have been brought to extremity of want. It is this day Ordered by the said Lords and Commons that the said Ordinance be repealed and annulled, And the said Lords and Commons do hereby repeal and annul the same.  
Joh. Brown, Cler. Parliamentorum.   
About the 20 of this instant came certain intelligence by Letters out of Yorkshire to London, that the Castle of Helmesley in that County, which had been then besieged (as was forementioned) by the right honourable and thrice noble Lord Fairfaxes forces, was now at length surrendered to his Lordship, upon Articles of agreement. 
Helmsley castle in Yorkshire taken by the thrice noble Lord Fairfax.  Whereupon, the said Castle with all the Ordnance, Arms, and Ammunition therein, except what arms the Commanders and Officers marched out withal, according to the agreement. In this Castle were about 200 men, 9 pieces of Ordnance, 300 Muskets and Pikes, 6 barrels of powder, and much money, Plate, and other good plunder; and many of the common Soldiers turned to the Lord Fairfax, whereof at least 40 went presently to assist at the siege of Scarborough.  
And about the 24 of this instant November, we were informed by Letters out of Lincolnshire, of the good success against the Enemy there, of that brave and most valiant active Commander, Colonel rossiter's Regiment of horse, and Colonel Fleetwoods' Regiment of horse, Commanded by valiant and virtuous Major Harrison, who resolved to face the Town of Newark, to try what strength of horse they had left, 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy in Lincolnshire, by Major Harrison  since the last loss of near about 800 horse upon a rout: But in their way, they also resolved to attempt the beating up of one of their quarters, within a mile of Newark, which accordingly they did, and took there, an 160 horse, and 80 prisoners, Major Herens, Captain Cressey, 3 Cornets, 3 Leivtenants, and divers Gentlemen, and afterward faced the Town of Newark, the enemy not daring to adventure out; whereupon they victoriously returned and brought their prisoners and prize safely with them to Lincoln.  
And about the 28 instant, we received certain intelligence by Letters out of the West, that the valiant Soldiers of Lime marched out of that Garrison to meet the Enemy at Axminster, who came thither to fortify that Town, thereby to have straitened the quarters of Lime; But they being as vigilant as valiant, and discovering the Enemy's drift, 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy at Axminster, by Lime forces.  and unwilling to be nosed by so bad a neighbour, fell upon the said Enemy, as they stood upon a posture of defence, fitted and resolved (as it seemed) to entertain the charge of our forces, but in the end, were bravely routed by the Lime Soldiers, who in the encounter killed Major Walker, a desperate and wicked Cavalier, 2 Captains, and 2 Leivtenants, and mortally wounded Sir Richard Cholmley (Son in Law to the Lord Pawle●, and brother to Sir Hugh Cholmley of Scarborough, that disloyal apostate Run negado) who commanded in Chief this party, and some Letters, since, have certified that the said Sir Richard is dead of his wounds; In which encounter also the brave Lime forces took 4 pieces of Ordnance, great store of Arms, many prisoners, and drove the rest into a Church, which was not then taken, when this Letter came to our hands. This most valiant Governor of Lyme deserves to be had in high honour and remembrance for his former famous services also, especially for his so manfully defending that poor Town against Prince Maurice, and the Lord Pawlet, 
A rich ship driven into Lime Haven by a storm.  and other mighty menacing powers, as hath at large been forementioned. And shortly after this brave defeat, it pleased the Lord that a sudden storm arising at Sea, a ship of Apsome was driven into the Haven at Lime, and there seized on, which was estimated to be worth many thousand pounds, a part whereof was ordered by the Parliament to be employed for the use and service of Lyme, and the rest for the other Western parts, the goods in the said ship being found to belong to divers rich Malignants of Exeter and Apsome, and most of them consisting of special good Linen cloth. And besides that foresaid Victory at Axminster, and rich prize so put into their hands in their haven; we had certain information that this most valiant and active garrison of Lime, within 2 or 3 days after fell upon another party of the Enemies, 
Another brave defeat given to the Enemy by Lime Garrison.  and did good execution on them, and took prisoners 3 Leivtenants more, with 50 other Officers and Soldiers, took an 160 Muskets, 10 Halberds, 3 barrels of powder, one Cornet Colours, 2 foot Colours, and 5 Drums, and that Colonel Bret; Knight and Baronet, was here also dangerously wounded, and, as was reported since, died of the wounds he then received, and that Major Hinkley was for certain dead of his wounds in this skirmish received.  
About the 30 of this instant November, we were certified by Letters from Sir Thomas Middleton's quarters, that Colonel Beal (who went with Foot forces out of London, by Sea, intended for Anglesey, and so for Sir Thomas Middleton, in North Wales,) landed his forces in Milford-Haven, in Pembrookeshire, in South-Wales, where joining with the Pembrook-men, he marched into Carmarthenshire, where the Enemies had a strong Garrison, 
Laughorn castle in South-wales taken by Colonel Beal.  called Laughorn castle, which this brave Colonel won from them, the exact particulars of which Service being brought to London, in a Letter dated at Pembroke, I have here thought fit to extract and set down the substance thereof, to the honour of that gallant Colonel, and the other Commander's assistant to him therein, which was as followeth. We made our approach to Laughorn castle, and having soon gained the Town, in the Town gate we planted our Ordnance, and first gave the Enemies a fair summons to surrender the said Garrison for the King and Parliament, which they utterly refusing, we presently made our batteries against the Castle gatehouse, and that not without the happy advantage of a great breach, and so with an unanimous consent of our forces fell to hot storm, and undermining of the walls, both which were performed with such fervour, courage and expedition (and that only with the loss of not above 5 of our men, but at the least 33 of theirs within, as was afterward confessed, by some of their own Commanders) as that the Enemy seeing us in such good earnest and wisely foreseeing the eminent danger they werein, if they now delayed any longer, they presently sounded a parley, which notwithstanding our advantages being granted them, though at first they began with us on high terms, yet were forced speedily to surrender only upon quarter for their lives, and the Castle thus surrendered into the General's possession, wherein were 4 pieces of Ordnance, 160 arms, 4 barrels of powder, and great store of other provision, they having lost in this assault ere it was ended, 33 of their men, and many wounded, whereof 4 were Captains.  
Much also about the foresaid time came certain intelligence by Letters from Pool in the West, that Sir Lewis Dives being at Dorchester, with 200 horse and Dragoones, sent a party to face Pool, who made a daring show and bravado, upon sight of whom brave Colonel Sydenham prepared valiantly to oppose them, but after only a daring show and bravado, 
A brave exploit performed by Col. Sydenham against the Enemy at Dorchester.  they vanished like a vapourous cloud, and marched away instantly to Dorchester: But renowned Colonel Sydenham impatient of the empty flourishes of a vapouring Enemy, that night drew out a party of between 50 and 60 horse double pistolled, and with them marched (like a gallant Gentleman indeed) himself in person, desirous to show Sir Lewis Dives some action, and in the night he came to Dorchester, and fell upon the Enemy in their quarters, first charged the outguards, calling to his men to fall on courageously, which they did most gallantly, 
The admirable courage & valour of Colon. Sydenham and his Soldiers.  beat his whole Regiment quite through the Town, and then gave them a second charge, and beat them back again, most stoutly charging upon the Dragoones, and crying out to his Soldiers, Give the Dragoones no quarter. With which his so violent a charge some fell and the rest fled, and at a third charge this noble Colonel facing about in the Town, found and knew Major Williams in the head of the Enemy's Troops, coming to charge him; This Williams had formerly basely and cruelly killed Colonel sydenham's Mother; whom so soon as Colonel Sydenham saw, he spoke to his men that were next to him, to stick close to him, for, said he, I will now avenge my Mother's innocent blood, or die in this place; and so he most valiantly made his way to Major Williams, and flew him in the place, who fell down dead under his horses feet, the rest of the horse and Dragoones fled out of the Town and so escaped; Sir Lewis Dives himself and some others of note being sorely wounded, and valiant Colonel Sydenham, returned back victoriously into Pool, with the prisoners he had taken.  
And thus now having by God's good guide and assistance finished with a short and succinct Survey, 
A grateful summary review of the various ways of the Burning Bush not consumed.  the comfortable contemplation of this Months wonder of the Burning-Bush, thus, still, Vnconsumed in the midst of all these premised fierce and furious conflagrations, as namely, Captain Stones his brave exploit at Eccleshall; the various happy occasions of a Solemn day of Thanksgiving on the 5 of this November, by Order of Parliament; Brave Sir Anthony Ashley-coopers' storming and taking of Sir John Strangewayes House, a strong Garrison in Dorsetshire; The brave defeat given to the Enemy at Helmsley castle, and the taking thereof; Free Trade re-establisht in Newcastle by authority of Parliament; A brave defeat given to the Enemies near Newark in Lincolnshire; Two other also given unto them, the one at Axminster in the West, together with a rich ship of the Enemies driven into Lime; the other within 2 or 3 days after the former, against a party of the Enemies, in those parts; The taking of Laughorn-castle in South-Wales; And this last brave exploit performed at Dorchester, by renowned Colonel Sydenham. All these, I say, performed to the eternal praise and high honour of our Israel's ever most gracious and glorious Wonderworking God, whereby we have great cause to sing and say with holy David, with exulting joy and thankfulness of heart, 
Psal. 46. 11.  The Lord of Hosts is with us, the God of Jacob is our refuge. And thus we will now briefly pass on without any farther digression or interruption, to the farther view and observation of Gods most powerful and propitious preservation of this still Burning-Bush, the Parliamentary Cause.  
FIrst therefore, 
Decemb. 1644.  I shall begin the serious Survey of this most rare and admirable Wonder of the Burning-Bush not consumed, in this next succeeding Month of December, 1644. with that brave defeat given to the Enemy, about the time when Taunton was much straitened by a siege, then, about it, that valiant and faithful Colonel Norton, with others, being then designed for the relief thereof, wherein also, Sergeant Major Dewet (who, since, hath prov●d a most perfidious apostate) and Major Wansey (with the rest of Colonel ludlow's Regiment of horse designed also as a reserve to our Forces then sent to relieve Taunton, as aforesaid) who all, I say, 
A brave defeat given to the Enemies at Salisbury by Sergeant Major Dewet.  marched to Salisbury, where the Enemy was quartered, who upon the sudden approach of these our friends, were forced to fly into a place called the Close, a chief and eminent place of that City, where the Bishops and Cathedral Choristers, and Singing-men, used to live, like so many lazy Abbey-Lubbers, commonly called the Prebends-Closse, and thither our Forces marched after them, even up to the gates, and first broke open the Sand-gate (the Enemy having made fast and barricadoed all the gates) and then our horse also forced open the Clossegate, whereupon the Enemy dispersed themselves, many of them betook themselves to the Angel at the Clossegate, others to another house at the Sand-gate, but our men seeing them thus housed, fired both of them, and in the mean season most bravely skirmished with the Enemy, without, but the fire taking on the foresaid houses, they within them were forced to surrender themselves prisoners to us. 
Colonel Cook & Leiutenant-col. Hook, with others taken prisoners.  Whereupon our men helped to quench the fire, and so obtained a very considerable Victory; for, they there took prisoners Colonel Francis Cook, Lieutenant Colonel Francis Hook, 2 Captains, Lieutenant Relsoll, 2 Cornets, 3 Quartermasters, one Mr. Alexander a Gentleman of quality, and 40 common Soldiers; besides an 163 good horses, 200 arms, some Match and powder and other good purchase; one Captain and divers others were slain on the ground, one Sergeant Major sorely wounded, and divers other Officers and Soldiers, who by the opportunity of the night escaped our hands. This service was most gallantly performed on our part, for we had but 2 of ours slain on the place, some few wounded and Captain Feiler hurt, and this was all the loss on our part, blessed be the Lord for it.  
About the 6 of this instant December, there was a great dispute in the House of Commons about the calling home of all the Members of Both Houses of Parliaments, from their Offices and employments both in the war & otherwise, that so the Houses being completed with their Members, 
The selfdenying Ordinance for calling home all the Members of both Houses of Parliament.  here might be a more sudden & surer dispatch and transaction of businesses, and for clearing the public prejudice concerning personal respects to themselves; And heerin also they seriously took into consideration, the slow proceedings of our Armies abroad, and the not prosecuting of advantages (when God in mercy gave them into our hands) tending much to the prolongation of this most unhappy War, and withal resenting that those differences which were then among our Commanders, were (commonly) most where the command was greatest: For these and such like weighty considerations, I say, the House of Commons put this great and most weighty business to the Vote in their House; and the very same motion was also made by an honourable personage in the House of Peers, and many Votes and suffrages passed about it pro and con; But at last it was agreed on, and a Vote passed clearly, with a most unanimous consent, and, as I take it, Nemine contradicente, by the House of Commons in Parliament Assembled, 
The substance of the Ordinance, or Vote itself.  to this effect; That no Member of either House of Parliament shall (during this war) enjoy or execute any Office or Command Military or Civil, which hath been granted to or conferred on any Member of either House, or by any authority derived from either House; and that an Ordinance be brought in accordingly. This Ordinance or Vote was afterward, accordingly Printed and published by authority, and was very fitly called, The Selfdenying Ordinance, whereof more hereafter in a more proper place. And for the more serious and religious managing and establishing of this great Vote, and the other weighty affairs of the Kingdom, depending hereon, 
A day of Humiliation ordered to be set apart for both Houses in private, to seek the Lord, touching this great Vote.  and hence issuing, our most renowned Worthies of the House of Commons, Ordered that Wednesday the 10 of December, than next ensuing, should be set apart for the keeping of a private Fast by both Houses of Parliament, so to seek the Lord, and implore a blessing from Almighty God upon their farther proceedings in the grand affairs of State to be agitated and negotiated on this vote; And reverend and religious Mr. Martial, Mr. Sedgewick, and Mr. Hill were entreated to Preach and carry on the work of that day with them. And was not here a work hopeful indeed to end well, which was so well begun? A Jove own principium. Certainly, if God hath made it known unto us, That he is found of those that seek him not; 
Isaiah 65. 1.  much more unquestionably, will he be found of those that seek and seriously inquire after him; And so truly we have blessedly found it, as I shall make most clear to the godly Reader, by many most remarkable and memorable testimonies and demonstrations thereof in their succeeding proper places. But, to go on.  
About the 10 of this instant, we were credibly assured by Letters out of Lincolnshire, that a brave Party of the Parliaments forces in those parts, led by valiant and virtuous Colonel Rainsborough, under the Command of the Earl of Manchester, having much battered Crowland with the Ordnance which they brought by Water in long Boats against it, 
Crowland taken by Col. Rainesborough.  the Enemy, at last, was forced to a parley, which was assented to, upon the conclusion whereof, it was agreed by both parties, that the Enemy's forces should march out of the Town, the Commanders and Officers with their Swords and Pistols, but the common Soldiers to leave all their Arms behind them, as also all the Ordnance and Ammunition therein to be left for the Parliaments use, which accordingly was performed; And thus this place of so great concernment, that at this time many hundred, by Land and by Water, were fain to be employed against only a few men within it, and yet receiving many checks and affronts many times by sallies out of the Town; was now thus at last surrendered again into the Parliaments possession. This Town had been twice lost and recovered by us, which had it not, now, might have proved a kind of scurvy Dunkirk to the Parliament, both by land and water too, had the Enemy continued in it, and thereby better manned and fortified it, as they might and would have done, had they not so soon been thus beaten out of it.  
December the 12, we were certainly informed out of the West, of a singular good piece of service performed by that most valiant, 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy at ●ed●ury by renowned Col. massy.  active, and faithful Commander Colonel massy, who hea●ing that a party of the Enemy's Horse from Bristol, had some design about Chippingham in Wilts, he sent out his Scouts, who discovered them to be, that night, quartered at Sedbury in Gloucestershire, some 9 miles from Bristol, and the just middle way from Bristol to Chippingham: Whereupon, he presently advanced with a considerable party, from Malmesbury, some 10 miles from Sedbury, and with accustomed undaunted courage falling on the Enemy's quarters, he there surprised and took an 160 of their horse, 100 arms, 50 prisoners, together with 12 Captains, Leivtenants, and other Officers, the rest of the Enemies leaving their design for lost, fled back again with haste into Bristol.  
And about the 14 instant came certain intelligence by Letters from Oswestre from Sir Thomas Middleton, of some considerable action and good service performed by our forces thereabout, the substance whereof was to this effect. That now at length the long looked for Colonel Beal, was (blessed be God) come safely to Sir Thomas Middleton, into Mountgomery-shire, and that Colonel Carter with our Horse and Dragoones to the number of 450 were sent under the Command of Captain Farrar into Cardiganshire to meet them, 
Good service done by Sir Tho. Middleton's forces about Mountgomery-shire.  who, in their return had, upon the borders of Mountgomery shire, a skirmish with about a 1000 of the Enemies, where the Country was summoned in by Sir Richard Price, and Mr. Pughe of Mathavern, they met in the night in a very narrow passage, where the Musketteirs played for an hour together upon them, but no good could be done; Whereupon Captain Farrar led up the Horse in a full Carreir upon them, which put them all to a present and confused flight, our forces pursued them 3 miles together, and slew at least 20 of them in the pursuit, whereupon the Enemy cried quarter, quarter, and had quarter given them; we there took 60 prisoners, among whom were 12 Officers, and an 100 arms, wounded divers of them and put all the rest to flight.  
The next morning Captain Farrar sent a Troop of Horse, and a company of Dragoones under the Command of Captain Luke Floyd, to summon Mathavern-house, where the Enemy kept a Garrison, where Mr. Pughe having had notice of our coming toward this house, presently upon our appearing he flew away and left the House, whereupon we instantly entered the Garrison, took what was in it, and then burned it down to the ground to keep them from returning again to it, to do us any farther mischief.  
About the 16 instant we had credible information by Letters out of the West, that Colonel Holborn, Major General of the forces sent to relieve Taunton (at this time much straitened by the Enemies) being upon his March in Dorsetshire, 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy in the West by Col. Holborn.  and upon the design, the Enemy had intelligence thereof, and drew themselves into a body to meet him in battalia, and Major General Holborn having also intelligence that they were come as far as Chard, he marched thither, with an intent to give them battle: But the Enemy discovering our forces drawing nigh them, and seriously bend to encounter them, fled out of the Town in great haste, and left above an 100 arms behind them, dispersing themselves in a disorderly retreat, but our forces pursued them, and took a whole Troop of their Horse, the Captain, Lieutenant, Cornet, and all both Officers and Soldiers, Horse and Arms, besides 20 other prisoners, whereof 5 were Officers, together with all their Hay, Oates, and other provisions, which they brought with them for their relief there.  
And about the 18 of this instant we received certain knowledge of divers plots and treacherous designs of the Enemies for the betraying of several Towns and strong Holds (their old trade of treachery) into the Enemy's hands; but, how our good God (the most vigilant Watchman over his English-Israel) most graciously discovered and disappointed them in their devilish designs and perfidious practices therein; 
Plots & conspiracies of the Enemies discovered and prevented. Stafford Town and Castle in danger. Dover●castle. Abbington.  as namely, the great danger of losing the Town and Castle of Stafford, by the either unfaithfulness, or negligence, or both, of Colonel Chadwick, Governor of the said Town and Castle, but by God's goodness, and by valiant, virtuous and faithful Sir William Breretons vigilancy timely prevented.  
Another plot and most dangerous and desperate design for the betraying of Dover-castle. That of Abbington also, wherein renowned, valiant, and faithful Major General Brown, most bravely befooled that spurious spark, and glistering Glow-worm of Oxonian wit, and base treachery, apostate Dig●i●.  
Another plot against Reading, 
Ail●bury. Reading. Plymouth.  and Ailesbury; And another plot against Plymouth also, to have betrayed the Island there, into the Enemy's hands; All these much about one and the same time, but all of them as seasonably discovered and prevented, as they were secretly and deceitfully plotted. But especially that most notable and craftily contrived Stratagem (which I may not here by any means omit) acted by Mr. Roger le Strange (a strangely audacious and desperate Cavalier) for the betraying of Lyn-Regis, 
Lyn-Regis in great danger to have been betrayed.  in Norfolk, into the Enemy's hands, which being a place of great concernment and in regard of most neat and cleanly carriage, of the business, in the discovery and prevention of the plot, a very remarkable piece and worthy of serious notice, I have, therefore, here for the Readers better content and fuller satisfaction, thought good exactly to impart it, as it was truly related and attested under the hand of that worthy and most loyal Gentleman Captain Lemon, the faithful discover (under God) and preventer of the plot, which was, as followeth.  
Mr. Roger le Strange, third Son to Sir Hamond le Strange, sent to Captain Thomas Lemon of Lin, 
An exact relation of the crafty contrivement & discovery of the plot to betray Lyn-Regis.  to Appleton-Hall, to the house of one Mr. Paston a Papist; and at his coming to him with a design intended by him against Lyn, for which he said he had a Commission from his Majesty to surprise the Town of Lyn, which Commission he presently showed him, and told him that if he would undertake to be assistant to him and raise a party within the Town to effect the design, that he should have a 1000 li. for his pains, and whatsoever preferment he would desire, either in the Town or in his Majesty's Navy: And farther he told him that the King did value the surprising of this Town as half his Crown, 
The King's esteem of Lyn-Regis.  and that within 10 days, after certain notice that the Town was reduced, his Majesty would send a sufficient power to their relief, and that those forces should be under the command of the Lord Goring. To which plot the said Captain Lemon for his own security (having taken the Covenant) and well weighing, on a sudden, the peace and good of the Commonwealth, for the present, he seemingly gave consent, 
Captain Lemon seems to consent to the plot  the night then coming on he departed from him, with promise to come to him again the next day, to advise farther of the design, but presently hasting to Lyn, he went to the Governor Colonel Valentine Walton, 
The Governor of Lyn made acquainted with the business.  and acquainted him with it, who after long debate, resolved the next day, that at the time appointed he should go to the said Appleton-Hall, and take with him a Corporal of his, clad in a Seaman's habit, who seemingly, should be a partaker with him to effect their design; and coming thither, the said Mr. Strange demanded of Captain Lemon, what he was that came with him, who answered that he was a man for their turn, and immediately upon it, the said Corporal himself answered very discreetly, that he was a pooreman living in Fishers-end in Lyn, and kept an Alehouse, 
The brave carriage of the business.  and that he was 40 pound the worse for the Roundheads; whereunto Mr. Strange replied, It is no matter, for when the design is accomplished, thou shalt have a 100 li. for it, and a Cannoneers place, which the Corporal, seemingly, was exceeding well pleased with; But, the better to know where the Commission was, Captain Lemon said, Mr. Strange, this my friend, by the way as we came, demanded of me what security you had, if in case the plot should be discovered, to save them from the gallows, if it might be; Captain Lemon, therefore said, he told him you had the King's Commission, which he desired to see. Whereupon Mr. Strange went immediately to a hole in the canapy of his bed and produced the Commission and read it to him, and having read it he put it into his pocket. In the interim came Lieutenant John Stubbin, Lieutenant to Major Moll, with 5 Soldiers more, 
Lieutenant S●ubbin & 5 or 6 more with him sent from Lyn by the Governor, came in a disguise to perfect the work.  all in the habit of poor Seamen, apparelled like ship-broken men (with a Warrant to attatch suspicious persons) who came begging to the door, and somewhat boldly getting within the Court-yard of the said house, being so ordered by the Governor, who as soon as they were up to the door of the House, the Gentlewoman of the house came running up to Mr. Strange, and told him there were 6 or 7 poor Soldiers come from Lyn a begging, Mr. Strange presently sent them down a shilling, and wished them to be gone, and Mistress Paston went down, to bar the door, which, Captain Lemon seeing, winked upon the foresaid Corporal, there present, to lay hold on Mr. Strange, which instantly done, he gave a stamp with his foot, by which the Lieutenant knew what he had to do, whereupon Mr. Strange seeing he was betrayed, conveyed his Commission to Captain Lemon (out of the frying-pan into the fire) than the Lieutenant not taking notice of the person of the Captain as known to him, 
Mr. Strange finds himself betrayed.  or as set purposely to ensnare Strange, did first attach Mr. Strange as an Enemy to the Commonwealth, and demanded his name, which he refused to tell, than he required his Commission, but he denied to have any; Heerupon the Lieutenant seeing Captain Lemon, demanded what he was, and what he did there consulting against the State, telling him he was a stinking knave, and searched him for the commission, and finding it in his pocket, took it from him, and set a guard over him, and another over Mr. Strange, and would not suffer them to speak each to other, by the way from Appleton-Hall to Lyn, whither they were brought prisoners to the Governor with the Commission; all which was done by order and consent of the Governor and Captain Lemon, before Mr. 
Mr. Strange & his Commission taken and sent up to the Parliament.  Strange his apprehension, which said Mr. Strange was immediately brought up to London, and committed to safe custody, and the Commission sent up to the Parliament, the Copy whereof I have here also inserted, which was as followeth.  

His Majesty's Commission granted to Mr. Roger le Strange for the betraying of the Town of Lyn-Regis into the hands of the Enemy.  
Charles Rex,  

The Copy of the Commission.  WE having received from our trusty and wellbeloved, Roger le Strange, declarations of the good affection of divers of our well-affected Subjects of our County of Norfolk and Suffolk, and particularly of our Town of Lyn, as also some overtures concerning the reducing of our said Town of Lyn, We have thought fit forthwith to return our Royal thanks unto our said well-affected Subjects; and particularly to give our said trusty and wellbeloved Roger le Strange, these encouragements to proceed in our service, principally in the work of reducing the said Town of Lyn.  
1. That in case that attempt shall be gone through withal, he the said Roger le Strange shall have the Government of the place.  
2. That what engagement shall be made unto the inhabitants of the said place in any other person capable of contributing effectually to that service, by way of reward, either in employment in his Majesty's Navy or Forts, or Money, not exceeding the sum of 5000 pounds, the service being performed, shall be punctually made good unto them.  
3. That they shall in this work receive what assistance may be given them from any of our merest Garrisons.  
And lastly, that when ever our said Town shall be reduced unto our obedience, We shall forthwith send thither 〈◊〉 a considerable power, as shall be sufficient to relieve and preserve them, We being, at present, even without this, fully resolved to send a considerable power to encourage our faithful Subjects in those parts, and to regain our rights and interests therein.  
By his Majesty's Command George Digby. Given at our Court at Oxford, this 28 of November, 1644.   
And much about the foresaid time we had certain intelligence of the relieving of that brave, courageous and pious people in the good and strong Garrison of the Town of jounton-dean, 
jounton-dean in the West releived.  whereof, that ever to be honoured faithful Gentleman and most courageous Commander, Colonel Blake was Governor, and where Prince Maurice and his thousands were after a long siege most shamefully beaten away, and many precious souls in the said Town preserved from the bloody rage and intended cruelty of those bloodthirsty and lustful Enemies, those scelerous sons of violence; a most renowned piece of God's providence and mighty mercy to those Western parts, never to be obliterated out of theirs and our most grateful remembrance. Since which we also were most certainly informed by Letters out of those parts, 
Colon Holborns activity & brave service in the West.  that Major General Holborn, marched with a party to the Lord Pawlets House, where he took 30 horses, many prisoners and divers arms, and made himself Master of that Garrison. From whence he marched to the House of one Mr. Arundel a notorious Papist, at a place called Chadwick, where he beat the Enemy out of that pernicious nest, and took some of them prisoners. After this also hearing that divers of the Enemy's forces were got into Sir John Pools House, he marched toward them, but the Enemy hearing of his approach that way, fled to Exeter; And the like did another party of the Enemies at Mr. Crewes House, setting it on fire, they fled away; Thus this most active and valiant Commander ferretted the Enemies out of their skulking holes in those parts, and procured much security to the inhabitants thereabout.  
December the 20. the Parliament taking into their serious consideration that the time was near approaching for the annual choosing of Officers in the most famous City of London, according to their anniversary custom, 
Care taken by the Parliament for the choosing of good Officers in the City of London.  and well knowing that the good government thereof doth chiefly depend upon the faithfulness and integrity of public Officers, especially in these times of so much trouble and danger; It was therefore Ordered in Parliament, that no person should be elected to be of the Common-council, or into other Offices in the City of London, who have not voluntarily contributed upon the Propositions, according to an Ordinance in Parliament, of the 29 of November, 1642. or who have otherwise testified their disaffection to the Parliament, or who have not taken the solemn League and Covenant; And that no such person shall have any voice in such elections, or any else who have been imprisoned or whose estates have been sequestered for Malignancy against the Parliament; And the right honourable Thomas Atkin Lord Major of the City of London, and the Aldermen in their several Wards were required to see the due execution thereof.  
About the 23 instant, we had certain intelligence from Northhampton of singular good service done in those parts by Captain Redman, who with a party of Northampton horse marched out; and fell upon a party of the Enemy's horse, 
Captain Redmans' brave service near Northampton.  but then newly come from Oxford, to do some mischief in those parts, of whom divers were taken prisoners by the said valiant Captain Redman, and the rest sound beaten; among those that were taken prisoners were Sir John Feunick, Sir Thomas Strickland, the Lord St. Paul, a Frenchman, and 15 more, some were slain and many wounded, the rest ran (like brave Oxonians) to save themselves, but they left behind them at least 30 horse, and a rich Sumpter, together with good quantity of Arms, and Ammunition. And at the same time we were certainly informed that Knaresborough castle in Yorkshire, 
Knaresborough-castle in Yorkshire taken.  was surrendered to the thrice noble and renowned Lord Fairfax, and in it good store of Arms, powder, and Ammunition, with some Ordnance and other good booty, viz. especially some hundred pounds in ready money, and about 1500 pounds worth of Plate, silver and guilt.  
And about the 26 of this instant December, we were certainly informed by Letters from Radcastle, that those 2 most loyal and renowned Commanders Sir Thomas Middleton and Colonel Mitton, had taken a strong Garrison of the Enemies, near Mountgomery called, Abby-cumhire; 
Cumhire Abbey a strong Garrison of the enemies in Mountgomery shire taken by Sir Tho. Middleton.  This House had formerly been a Romish-Abby, and was strongly built of stone, upon their first coming before it, they summoned it, but upon the Enemy's denial to surrender, Sir Thomas middleton's, and Colonel Mittens old Soldiers, assisted by Colonel Beal, and Lieutenant Colonel Carters soldiers, who were then, lately, come to them out of South-Wales, and with brave resolution fell upon the Enemy, and stormed and took the House in a short time; where they took prisoners, Colonel Barnard, Governor of the Castle, Hugh Floyd, Esquire, a Commissioner of Array in those parts, and high-sheriff of that County, and one of those that were excepted by the Proposition for Peace at Uxbridge, to have no pardon, 2 Captains of Foot, one Captain of Horse; a Captain Lieutenant, 3 Leivtenants, a Foot Colours, one Cornet of Horse, 4 Sergeants, 8 Corporals, 2 Trumpeters, 4 Drums, 60 common Soldiers, 3 barrels of powder, 60 firelocks, 40 Horse, 40 horse arms, besides 200 Muskets, and some other arms and ammunition. By the taking of which said strong Garrison, the Counties thereabouts are freed from much danger of their cruel Enemies, who had before used many of the inhabitants with much severity.  
About the 28 of this instant we received credible information by Letters out of Staffordshire, that Captain Stone the valiant Governor of Eccleshall castle, having intelligence that some parties of the Enemies were abroad out of Tongue castle, 
Captain Stones brave defeat given to the Enemy at Tongue-castle.  he thereupon marched out of Eccleshall, with a party of horse, found them, and fell upon them, and in the fight slew divers of them, took prisoners the Governor of Tongue castle, divers Officers, 200 common Soldiers, and 50 horse, with some other good booty. And by Letters out of the West we were farther informed, about the same time, that Major Dewet performed a brave exploit upon the Enemy at West Dean, 
Another by Major Dewet.  which was thus related. Sir, our brave-spirited Major (but shortly after this a base apostate from us) marched with his men from about Malmsbury, toward our Garrison by West-Dean, and by the way, he fell upon a quarter of the Enemies at Rushall, near Vphaven, where there were quartered about 36 of Captain Paddons Troop, who entitled themselves, The Wiltshire Troop; where after some hot and testy dispute, he took prisoners, Lieutenant Borrow, Lieutenant of Horse, commanding the Troop, George Warner, a Reformado Captain, a Lieutenant of Foot, 2 more Reformado Officers, 6 Troopers, 20 good horse and arms, and other good prize for his Soldiers, without the loss of any one man or horse on his side. And about the same time, we had farther certain intelligence of another brave exploit performed against the Newarkers, 
And another by Col. Thorney.  by valiant Colonel Thorney, and the Nottingham Forces, who took a considerable Garrison from the Enemies, near Newark, viz. Sir Roger Cooper's House, and in it Sir Roger himself, and his brother, and 50 prisoners with their arms and ammunition.  
And about the 30 of this instant December, an Agent of the most illustrious Queen of Sweden, 
The most noble Queen of Sweden desires Association, with the Parliament of England.  was admitted with honourable reception into the Parliament, the representative Body of the Kingdom of England, with his Letters to the Parliament, from the said most Royal Princess, which were, then, opened, and after the translating of them out of the Latine-tongue, in which they were written, they were read in Parliament; The effect and substance of which, was, That the said thrice noble Queen of Swethland, with her Nobles and whole State desired to associate themselves, and to keep fair and loving correspondence with the Parliament and State of England, and to enter into the Solemn League and Covenant with them, for the mutual defence of the true Reformed Protestant Religion. A rare mercy, indeed, thus to see another Protestant Kingdom desire to join with us in this blessed work of setting the Lord Christ upon his Throne; as our most loyal and loving brethren of Scotland have done, to the high honour and glory of God and good of his Church. And with this so sweet a mercy I shall here most fitly close up this months most famous blessings on this Burning-Bush, the Parliaments honest and upright Cause.  
And here now therefore, good Reader, let me entreat thee to make a little stay, and therein to stand amazed at this even senseastonishing Parliamentary-wonder, 
The Burning-Bush not consumed.  to see and consider in this one Month's contemplation thereof, this Burning-Bush, thus still Vnconsumed, I mean, the Parliaments just Cause and quarrel, in the midst of so many devouring flames of bloody bicker, and perfidious plots and treacheries as have been forementioned, to stand upright still undestroyed; yea, chose more and more flourishingly and fairly corroborated and fixed at the root, the blessing of him that dwells in the Bush, thus, admirably (still) preserving and protecting it from constantly contrived and intended ruin and destruction. Upon the serious sight and pious pondering whereof, O what great cause, have we, with holy David, to break forth into a holy and hearty ecstasy of joy and admiration, as wanting words to express sufficiently, the many and mighty mercies of our God, 
Psal. 367, 8. & 32. 7.  and to sing and say: How excellent, O Lord, is thy loving kindness, how powerful is thy protection therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings. They are abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou dost make them drink of the rivers of thy pleasure. And thou, O Lord, art he alone that dost encompass us, still, with songs of deliverance. But now to proceed, and set forward to the farther sight and contemplation of the succeeding wonders, in and upon this our thus Burning Bush, in this ensuing Month of January, 1644.  
ANd first, 
January. 1644.  I shall begin, here to remember my Reader, that, as God had lately before begun to cut off (in a Judiciary way) one most pestilent plotter and dangerous Malignant Incendiary, who (had not Gods gracious providence prevented) intended to have sorely and mischeivously increased the f●ames, and utterly to have burnt down this onely-God-protected Parliament Bush, I mean, 
Sir Alexander Carew beheaded, for treason.  Sir Alexander Carew, who was executed on Tower-Hill, in the preceding month of December, for his intended treasonable plot against Plymouth: So, now, also on the second of this instant January, being Thursday, Sir John Hotham, (though much means was used to save his life; yet such was the admirable and commendable integrity and inflexible impartiality of the House of Commons in Parliament to do justice, where sentence was once past, that even he) was that foresaid day brought by the, then, Lieutenant of the Tower, 
Sir John Hotham beheaded for treason.  Alderman Pennington, to the place of execution, where he justly suffered deserved death for his most treacherous intentions and endeavours against the Parliament, to have betrayed Hull into the hands of the Enemy. Where also, his Son Captain Hotham, 
Captain Hotham also, Son of Sir John Hotham, beheaded on Towre-Hill.  another complotter with his foresaid Father, in the same design, was also beheaded, as a just reward to such pernicious Parricides and conspiring Catilines, who, thus, would have rejoiced in the ruthless ripping up of the bowels of their dearest Mother, their native Country. And here also I may most fitly hint and suggest to the Reader, another remarkable passage of like divine providence, to the effect aforesaid; namely, that on the 4 of this instant, it pleased our most wise God to put it into the hearts of our most noble Peers in Parliament, 
A remarkable passage of Divine providence. The Directory for pure worship Voted in Parliament, & the Common-Prayer Book abolished.  that they should not only most sweetly concur with the Honourable House of Commons, in the amendments of the Directory for God's pure Worship, and pass the same; and therewith to subjoin an Ordinance of Parliament for utterly taking away, and quite abolishing of the Book of Common-Prayers: But that also the said most noble and pious Peers (unwilling to part the Refiner from his Mettle, I mean, the Arch-Prelate of Canterbury, from his purged Common-Prayer-Book) that therefore, I say, the Lords in Parliament should presently send 2 of the reverend Judges to the House of Commons, with the message of their concurrence and resolution to proceed, 
The Arch Prelate of Canterb. to be now effectually brought to his Condemnation.  now, effectually to the sentencing and condemnation of the Arch-Prelate of Canterbury, one of the prime and Metropolitan heads and complotters against Church and State; which, indeed, after this, was followed to the full, until they had brought that base and bloody Bishop, yea, that most abominable and unparallelled hypocrite to his just execution, in the cutting off of his most traitorous head also, at the Towre-Hill, whereof more anon in its more proper place. But, here, by the way, I shall desire the Reader religiously to take notice of one remarkable note, 
A remarkable note.  and observation heerin, namely, of the day on which it pleased the most wise providence of our God to order and appoint this seasonable concurrence of Both the Houses of Parliament together for confirmation of those 2 great works of Piety and Justice, viz. That it was just on the 4 of January; That very day 3 years, on which unhappy King Charles came in person into the Parliament with a multitude of armed Ruffians to effect such a bloody and desperate design as (had it taken effect) had made as bloody a piece of work, as ever this Kingdom beheld, and as had thereby established that pestilent Prelate, with his Common-Prayer-Book, and therewith, especially, the Popish faction (only masked under those poor Vizards) to a long and lustful tyrannising over the bodies and souls too of God's dear Servants, the Lord knows how long and lewdly. And now, say, ●ood Reader, dost thou not already see in this remarkable passage 〈◊〉 providence, a most beautiful and bountiful blessing of him that dwelled in the Bush, upon this his Vnconsumed Burning Bush, the Parliament? But to proceed.  
About the 6 of this instant January, we were certainly informed that the Garrison of Winchester, being much straitened of provisions by the Parliaments forces quartered near them, the Enemy (there) went out to drain the Country of Cattle, and to plunder the people, and had got much plunder and Cattle from them, but before they could get into Winchester with their prey, 
Divers brave exploits performed by the Parliaments forces against the Enemies.  Colonel Morleyes' Troop met with them, gave them a martial salute, routed them, and rescued all the Cattle and plunder which they had got, and took divers of the Enemy's prisoners. We had also intelligence from Ailsbury about the same time, that they in that brave Garrison having notice of a party of the King's Horse that were in the Country, taking up plunder, they made out to find them, and at last discovering them, fell valiantly upon the Enemy, surprised 30 or 40 of them, stripped them of their plunder, and brought the prisoners to Ailsbury. And, that, shortly after this, Colonel Martin, the valiant and vigilant Governor of Ailsbury, went forth and happily lit upon a whole Troop of Horse, which was said to be the Princes, and singular good Horse they were, indeed, and well armed; All which, I say, he totally surprised, and brought safely into Ailsbury. Also, that courageous Colonel Holborn had had some brave skirmishes in the Western parts, with goring Horse, and notwithstanding that the addition of strength came not unto him, as was promised, and which he expected; yet he most valiantly attempted to fall upon the Enemy in their quarters, bravely beat them, and took divers of the Enemy's prisoners, and about 200 Horse, and had not a cross accident fall'n out and prevented him, he had certainly taken the Town of Bridgewater.  
And about the 8 of this instant January, we had unquestionable information and assurance of a brave prize of Bristol ships taken at Sea, by Captain Coachman, a valiant and faithful Sea-Captain, 
Cardigan Town & Castle taken by Col. Laughorn in Wales; and a brave prize at Sea.  testified in renowned Captain Swanleys' Letter to the Earl of Warwick, as a postscript of the said Letter, wherein, especially, Captain Swanley, certifies the foresaid renowned Earl of Warwick of a brave Victory obtained by Major General Laughorn, viz. his taking of the Town and Castle of Cardigan in Wales, with above an 100 Commanders and common Soldiers in it, and all the arms and ammunition therein, and of the surprising of ●ivers eminent persons, the King's Irish-Commissioners, together with the King's broad-Seal to treat with the barbarous and bloody Rebels of Ireland, (King Charles his best Popish Subjects) about concluding a peace with them, of all which, for the Readers better satisfaction, I have here inserted the foresaid Letter itself, under Captain Swanleyes' own hand.  
The Copy of a Letter sent to the Right Honourable the Earl of Warwick, from Captain Richard Swanley.  
Right Honourable,  
SInce my last of the 20 of November, by Captain Green, in the Dogger Beat, Major General Laughorn, keeping the field with such Forces as the indigency of the County gave a possibility of subsistence, pretending for Carmarthen, and lying still, working by double policy to draw the hearts of the Inhabitants of Cardiganshire to the State, and the force of Carmarthen with their adherents, into the said Town for their defence and the indemnity of their adjacent Garrisons, opportunely rose and advanced from his quarters to the Town of Cardigan, whither the Country formerly invited him, and made a party to assist the General to complete the design inagitation, and the Town (being faced at a distance) willingly surrendered and complied. The Castle (being a considerable place, ably manned, having the Ordnance of the convert Frigate, there shipwrackt) most obstinately stood out, till a Demiculverin of brass, belonging to the Leopard, was rounted, and played 3 days upon them, forcing a breach, which was gallantly entered and made good by our party, and the Castle stormed; wherein were an 100 Commanders and Soldiers, with their arms and good plunder, not forgetting the Converts Ordnance, thus returned by divine providence, and works of mercy in a Commander, adding honour to acts of Chivalry; invited the General to give the Steward life, who contemned quarter. The Town and Castle reduced, and the Country in the major part (as conceived) well affected; our Army advanced toward Newcastle, the Enemies next Garrison; which (as conceived) will be slighted or quitted by the Enemy, and that County brought to a right understanding of their duty and Parliamentary just honour and proceedings. To God be rendered the due praises of his mercies. Vessels of late have been designed to the well-affected Garrisons in Ireland, but none (in regard of contrary winds) returned; and shipping to ply up the Channel, as high as Miniard, have also been Commissionated to give intelligence and assistance to our Forces in those parts. Sir Thomas Middleton's Magazine of Ammunition since disposed of to Leverpool. Nothing, that by integrity and action may add life to the public good, shall, by God's assistance, be wanting, and my faithful endeavours shall comply with your Honour's great trust, whose happiness shall ever consist, my very good Lord, to be  
Your most humble and faithful Servant, Rich. Swanley. Jan. 1. 1644.  
Postscript. My Lord, In the night of this date, arrived Captain Coachman, in the True-Love, from Leverpool; I have herewith presented Colonel Moor's Letter from thence, who brought in the Content-prize with the passengers, as per list. I have included a paper that from Dublin, came to band to whom I can yield no compliance for want of Ammunition. Pray take present order to supply me with Ammunition, and all stores, otherwise I shall burden the State and be disabled to do Service.  

A List of Passengers Names taken in the Content-prize bound for Dublin, by Captain Coachman, in the True-Love.  
The Lord Brabison.  
Sir Henry Titchburn.  
Sir James Ware.  
Mr. Robert Price.  
Mr. Tho. Williams.  
Mr. John Smith.  
Mr. Alex. Nugent.  
Mr. Rich. Holland.  
Mr. Patr. Pew.  
With their Servants.   
All which are to be sent to the State, being of considerable force, with the first conveniency in the Honour, by Captain Seaman.  

An Extract out of a Letter written by Captain William Smith, to the Lord high Admiral, from aboard the Ship called the Swallow in Milford Haven, touching the taking of Cardigan Town and Castle.  
AFter many great reins which have fallen in these parts (which was no invitation for a Soldier to lie in the fields) yet such was the gallantry of Major General Laughorne, to promote the Cause in hand, that the Almighty no sooner crowned his desires with a happy season, but in a grateful acknowledgement, he placed a Garrison in Laughorn castle, and from thence marched towards Cardigan, with about 500 Horse, and 300 Foot; and on the 21 of December 1644. he sat down before Cardigan castle, demanding a surrender thereof for the service of the King and Parliament: But Major Slaughter who commanded in che●f, replied, he held that Castle for the service of the King, and so long as he had life he would keep it for his Majesty, (though therein he was not a man of his word.) After three day's siege, the Major General perceiving all further attempts-would be in vain, unless a breach could be forced, and having no Artillery with him, he forthwith gave order the Demyculverin should be brought from Laughorn, which with much difficulty and industry came safe to Cardigan, and being placed to the best advantage he fell to battery.  
The Enemy within the Castle-yard cast up a half moon some distance from the place on which the Demi-Culverin played, in which they placed their great Guns laden with Case-shot, that in case a breach should ●ee made those Guns might disanimate our men in entering, or perform sudden execution on them: Our men plying the Demi-Culverin, forced a breach, and being full of resolution entered, running in the mouth of their Guns, recovered the half moon, where the Enemy, as men bereft of all sense, having not the power to give fire to their Guns, although the Linstocks were in their hands ready lighted, cast down all their arms, and cried for quarter, the which was granted ● from thence we entered the Castle and took Prisoner Major Slaughter and his wife, one Captain Vaughan, with their Lieutenant and Ensign, one Doctor▪ Taylor a Divine with about an 100 common Soldiers, six great Guns, a 150 Arms, a quantity of powder, ball, and other provisions, and this was done the 29 of December last.  
On the 4 of January, General Gerrard sat down before the Castle with about 1200 horse, and 1300 foot; Major General Laughorn recruted his forces to about 600 horse, and 300 foot, and advanced towards Cardigan to redeem his friends, who were in the Castle, out of the power of the Enemy; Lieutenant Colonel powel in the night sent a Soldier who swum through the river, and informed Major General caughorn, that unless he could relieve the Castle, within eight days▪ he should be enforced to surrender it for want of Victuals, and Ammunition, which he believed might be supplied, if some Seamen versed in managing a water sight, and climbing up rocks were employed; So 120 Seamen were sent, who after a view had of the place, undertook it, which was performed on this wise: A boat laden with provisions was placed in the middle between four boats on each side, two of which were manned with Seamen, who in flanks faced both ways, plying their Musket's on the Enemy, who from the shore played on them with about 300 Musketters, yet our Seamen gallantly proceeded, put all the provisions into the Castle, and returned without the loss of one man, only two slightly wounded. After this Colonel Laughorn having drawn his foot into a body, being with our Seamen in all about 350. he encouraged them to give an assault on the Town; which after some debate was attempted, and on the 22 of January last, our foot forced their passage over the Bridge, in which we lost but one man, and having beaten the Euemy from their first guard, they pressed on to the second, which they also took, and pursuing the victory beat them out of their main guard, which was at the Market place, and then out of the Church, where our forces took two brass Demi-Culverins, which Gerrard brought from Bristol, with some Powder, ball, and all their provisions, and following the Enemy, beat them all out of the Town, and so we are now Masters both of the Town and Castle. Of the enemy were slain in the place 85 besides those that were slain before the Castle, 100 prisoners were taken, and their whole Forces routed, and I believe in their flight they never looked behind them, until they came to Castle Emlyne, which is six miles from Cardigan. In the▪ Town we also took 250 Arms. I have not heard since these unhappy differences began in this Kingdom, that the hand of the Almighty hath more visibly appeared in giving so great victories to so small a handful, than hath been manifested in these parts, and therefore to his own power we attribute all the praise and glory.   
But to proceed.  
About the 10 of this instant January, the proud and most pestilently pernicious Arch-Prelate of Canterbury, William Laud, that Arch Traitor to the Church and State, to God and all good men, yea, that Arch Incendiary (together with his brother Strafford) of 3 Kingdoms, 
The Arch Prelate of Canterbury executed for treason on Towre-Hill.  after a long, and most full and fair trial (as ever to be honoured Mr. William Prynn, hath in his famous History of this Arch Prelate's Life and ●●eath, and Trial, most abundantly cleared to all the world) being most justly and worthily condemned by the most honourable House of Peers, to be hanged, drawn and quartered, as a Traitor, indeed, yet upon his Petition, that kind of death was altered, and he beheaded (as the rest of his Traitorous companions) upon the Towre-Hill. Of whom, all I will say, at this time (having said so much already of him and the rest of his wretched rabble of Traitors, in my Second Part of The Lookingglass for Malignants) shall be only this; That his constant pride and impudence, considered wherewith he swollen in his whole life, and wherewith he jetted even to the Scaffold, to his death's Block, manifested in his pert, yea, and malapert gesture, spruce and neat apparel, unparallelled bold countenance, and confidence in his whole carriage, even to his very minute of Death; his most audacious and hypocritical Preaching, (or most properly, prating) for almost an hour together before his death, in most egregiously juggling and justifying his whole life, and all his most accursed and abominable works of darkness, and that, to the very death; (O nefanda, & inaudita audacia, & execrabilis durities!) all which, I say, most seriously and sadly considered, O how justly and most properly appliable to this wretohed Arch Prelate is that most terrible and frightful judgement of the Lord, mentioned by the Prophet. Make the heart of this man fat, 
Isaiah 6. 10.  and make his ears heavy, and shut his eyes; lest he see with his eyes, and bear with his ears, and understand with his heart, and should convert and be healed. This unquestionably, was this most miserable man's condition; for a most proud and hypocritical crafty Tyrant and persecutor of God's Saints he lived, and a most obdurate and marblehearted Atheist he also impudently & impenitently died. Giving us all over the whole Kingdom, yea, all over the 3 whole Kingdoms, great & just cause heartily to bless the Lord for his righteousness and justice heerin, & happily fulfilling that of wise King Solomon, or rather of the Lord by him. When the wicked perish there is shouting and joy among the people. 
Prov. 11. 10.  And truly so it justly was with us at this wicked man's death: For, truly, as Queen Elizabeth once said, when she was freed from distress, by Queen Mary's death, and the persecuting Popish Bishops clapped up in prison. O, said she, it is merry with Lambs when Wolves are shut up: so say I, it was happy for us, poor Lambs, when this Wolf was thus taken from us. For truly, ever since this his just execution (what ever the Court-Cabinet Prognosticators falsely affirmed) God hath admirably blessed our Armies, and the whole work of intended Reformation. But now to go on.  
About the 14 of this instant, we were credibly assured by Letters to the Committee of both Kingdoms, 
A brave defeat given to the King's forces at Abbington, by renowned Major General Brown.  as also Major General brown's own Letter to his Excellency, Robert Earl of Essex, than Lord General, of a most brave victory, and famous defeat obtained over, and given to our Enemies, the King's forces, at Abbington, by the said renowned and most active and loyal Major General; the particulars whereof, I have thought fit to give the Reader, for his fuller satisfaction and content, in a Letter written by religious Colonel Harsnet, to his worthy Friend Captain Jones, in London, which was as followeth:  
Sir,  

A Copy of Col. Harsnets' Letter to Capt. Jones, touching the brave defeat at Abbington.  I have had a longing desire to requite your love, in giving me a relation of that famous fight at Alford, but never, till now, could meet with an opportunity. But something the Lord hath, now, I say, vouchsafed worthy the relation to our worthy Friends at London. I came on Friday night from Henly, with our Company that came with us from London. Some others of our Garrison, whom we found at Reading, after midnight, passed with us very quietly by Walling ford, and so about 3 of the clock, came safe to Abbington, seeing none in our way to trouble us; but having been not above 3 hours there, we had an alarm from the same way we came, 
The Enemies gave Abbington an alarm and possessed themselves of Cullum Bridge. Rupert, & Maurice, were present.  which was about half a mile from us in Oxfordshire, called Cullumbridge, which the Enemy possessed themselves of, before we had time to draw forth any party to charge them; There were parties from Oxon and from Wallingford, Prince Rupert Commanding in chief, with whom was his brother Prince Maurice, Sir▪ Henry Gauge, Governor of Oxford, and many other great Commanders; Their forces were supposed to be in all, about 3000 Horse and foot with 2 pieces of Ordnance. 
Their strength 3000 horse & foot.  Behind the foresaid. Bridge was a great hill with many hedges, which they had lined with Musketeers, to the great annoyance of our men. But our noble Major General upon hearing of the alarm, Commanded our men to Arms, which was cheerfully obeyed; and by parties were drawn along the Cawsie, that led from the Town to the Bridge (Meadows overflowed with water being on both sides) and coming to charge them at the Bridge, 
The charge on the Enemy begun.  the Enemy stoutly opposed us, but to their loss; whereupon we had 2 Drakes commanded thither, and our men cheerfully wading into the water, on both sides, did so pelt them, while the Drakes played upon the Bridge, that after 4 hours' fight we drove them from the Bridge and the Hedges, 
Cullum Bridge recovered by ours.  and forced them to a retreat, and we having got the Bridge (which being of Stone, the Enemy had partly broken down) yet our men got over, Commanded by Major Bradberry, 
Ma●or Bradberry slain. The Enemy put to a shameful retreat.  Major to Colonel Sparrows Regiment of Essex, at the entering over which Bridge he was slain, but in this hot bickering, we lost not above 8 or 10 men, at the most, and so the Enemy was forced to a shameful retreat. The fight began betimes in the morning, at which instant there was a party of 70 or 80 horse from Farrington to set upon our horse, quartered at a Village called Brayton in Berkshire, on the other side of the Town, about 2 miles off. The Enemy was, there, commanded by Major Hatton Farmer, Major of the Prince's Regiment; our Horse carried themselves very courageously▪ beat the Enemy out of their quarter, and pursued them within a mile of Farrington, and killed the Major with divers others, 
Major Hatton Farmer slain. 5 Irish men hanged.  and mortally wounded the Captain Lieutenant of the Prince's Regiment, took many of the men and horse, among whom were 5 Irish men, whom we hanged, the same day in the Marketplace, and not above 12 of these horse got into Farringdon, 
A rare & clear victory.  the rest were all slain or taken without the loss of any one of our men or horse. Their intent was, as we were informed by prisoners, and a Trumpeter (who that evening came from Oxford, to desire the Major's body) that the horse should give us an alarm on the one side, 
Sir Henry Gage Governor of Oxford slain in this fight.  whiles the foot stormed us on the other; And another that then came from Oxford gave our Major General information, and both of them affirmed that we slew in this fight Sir Henry Gage, Governor of Oxford, and many other Gentlemen of great quality, and in particular that Lieutenant Colonel Lower, Deputy Governor of Wallingford was also slain. I am confident the Enemy had a great advantage of us, by the bridge and hills, yet the Lord fought for us, and hath graciously delivered us out of their hands, for which we desire Thanks may be generally given to the Lord of Hosts, and God of Battles, and in particular for preserving us also in our safe passage to Abbington, the Enemy being upon their march so near us, and had they taken us, it would have occasioned great triumph in the Enemy, 
A great mercy and preservation to us.  there being of us 4 Colonels, besides other Captains and Commanders. Our Major General, Dr. Wilson and Quarter Master General Burrowes remember their loves to you, and would have given you a touch hereof, but that I undertook to save them that labour. I pray you acquaint our Friends heerwith, as having expressed nothing but what I know to be truth.  
One of the Messengers from Oxford informed us that Prince Rupert engaged himself to the King and Lords, with many vows and protestations, 
Prince rupert's proud brag to be Master of Abbington. 1 King. 20. 1. 1.  yea, and execrations too, That he would dine the next Sunday in. Abbington, and that he would be Master of it by 12 a clock that morning, forgetting that of A●ab to Benhadad; Let not him that girdeth on his harness boast himself, as he that putteth it off. But missing his hopes, and the Governor of Oxford being also slain, he was ashamed to march triumphantly into Oxford, with the forces that returned, but came sneaking in privately another way; where the Lords mocking him asked him where was Abbington, 
Rupert notably jeered for his brave Victory.  which he boasted he would so suddenly have. But we, I say, gave them such a breakfast, as that it was believed he would have little stomach, thereafter to come and visit our noble Major General. We could not, for want of horse, pursue the victory; Colonel Fynes having left us, and I think God would not vouchsafe to do him so much honour as to be present at so noble an exploit. For the number of ours slain, I have already given you an account. The number of the slain of the Enemy was not certainly known when I wrote this; the Country reported 3 or 4 Cart-loads of dead and wounded corpse to be taken with them, besides many that were drowned, and others that were thrown in after they were slain, and some found dead upon the place.  
Sam. Harsnet. Abbington this 12. of Jan. 1644.  
And here also I shall desire the Reader to take notice, that this brave Victory was thus happily obtained, the very next day after that judgement was given upon that egregious and abominable hypocrite and atheist, and most pestilent Incendiary the Arch Prelate of Canterbury: 
Another passage of divine providence.  And that on the very same day also we had the certain information of those brave Victories and rich prizes, forementioned by renowned Captain Swanley, specified in his Letter to the noble Earl of Warwick, as aforesaid.  
About the 16 instant, we were certainly informed by Letters out of the West, especially by an Express from the Lord Roberts, Governor of Plymouth, to the Speaker of the House of Commons, that that most impious and impudent rotten-hearted Apostate Skellum Greenvill, having gathered all the forces he could raise in Cornwall, and other parts of the West, did about the 10 of January, 1644. about eleven of the clock at night, alarm the works of the Town of Plymouth, in 4 several places, at once, with near 6000 men, 
The enemy most bravely beaten at Plymouth.  whereby, after a very hot dispute the Enemy became Masters of the 4 great works of the Town; out of two of which they were quickly beaten, but held the third, called Little Penny-quick, and began to scale or rather dig down, another fort called Great Penny-quick: But, at last, by the admirable courage of the Commanders and Garrison-Souldiers they were quite beaten out of that too, with great loss unto the Enemy, leaving 75 of their men dead on the place, 
The Enemy had gotten the 4 outworks of Plymouth, yet were beaten out of them all again.  and (at last) 4 times as many more slain in this Service, besides many hundreds wounded: For, as soon as they were beaten off from the 3 works, the Plymouth men who behaved themselves with extraordinary gallantry, environed the fourth work (whereinto our men had got, partly by digging and undermining, and partly by scaling) and the Enemy within it, who seeing themselves so suddenly beset and ensnared (as it were) in their so late and so sure seeming gotten prize, instantly surrendered it upon quarter for their lives. In this brave bickering there were also many prisoners taken and much arms; the victory was very great, and the Enemy by it, much discouraged, Let our God alone therefore have the greater praise and glory for it.  
About the 18 instant, we received certain information again, by Letters out of the West, of valiant Colonel Holborns taking in of Sydenbam-House, 
Colon. Holborn his good service in the West.  in which he had near an 100 prisoners, among whom, was one Captain, one Lieutenant, and other Officers in arms together with some other persons of quality; And he surprised also the high-sheriff of Somersetshire, and ten Commissioners of Array with him; And also that he shortly after, took 300 prisoners, with many Horse and Arms, as they were foraging abroad in those parts, for plunder and spoil.  
And about the 21 instant, the House of Commons in Parliament had a debate concerning the New Model for the settling of the Armies; And proceeded to the nomination of divers Officers for the new Army; by which means (though for the time, the Selfdenying Ordinance seemed, at this time, to be laid aside) they might recall any of the Members of either House to the public Service at home, 
The New Model of an Army of 21000 horse and foot, voted in Parliament.  as well as if the said Ordinance had, then, been past: Upon the conclusion of the debate it was, now, therefore Ordered and Voted, that Sir Thomas Fairfax should be Commander in chief of the 21000 Horse and Foot to be now raised according to the New Model, and Major General Skippon to be Major General of the whole Army; and then they proceeded to nominate the Colonels of each Regiment for the said Model, which were 21 in all, 
An Ordinance for raising Many to maintain the new Army.  whereof Colonel Holborn, and Colonel Rossiter, were 2 in the first place; And the House, then, took into consideration the completing of an Ordinance for the raising of moneys to maintain the said Army, which shortly after was perfectly completed in all particulars, whereof more, in their more proper places.  
About January the 24, we had most certain intelligence by Letters out of Cheshire, which were read in Parliament, in the House of Commons, of a very great overthrow given to the Enemy's forces near Chester, by ever to be renowned Sir William Breretons forces, the manner whereof was, 
A brave victory obtained by ever to be renowned Sir William Breretons forces near unto Chester.  in brief, thus related. That the Enemy drew forth all the strength of Horse and Foot, that they could get together in and about Chester, and marched thence with an intention to relieve Beeston castle, then strongly besieged by Sir William Brereton, whereof Lieutenant Colonel Jones and Sergeant Major Brooks, having intelligence, they fell upon them in their passage and so undauntedly dealt with them, that in a short time they had totally routed the whole body of the Enemy's Army both Horse and Foot, slew 50 of them in the place, and near 200 wounded; They took prisoners 2 Colonels, one Lieutenant Colonel, 2 Sergeant Majors, 6 Captains, 10 Leivtenants, 4 Ensigns, 3 Sergeants, and one Corporal; They took also 200 horse, and 200 men prisoners, with 400 Arms and much Ammunition, whereby (as it may be easiled judged) Chester Garrison was much weakened, and disabled to hold out long, the then present siege.  
And about the 26 instant, we received also certain knowledge of a notable and brave piece of Service performed by Major General Craford, than Governor of Ailsbury, who going with but about 90 horse to seek quarter for his Soldiers, and finding none one way, he wheeled about toward Thame and unexpectedly fell upon a 120 horse of the Enemies, among whom was Colonel Bleyer, Governor of Walling ford Castle, who when they saw each other, both these Champions did not take the advantage of each other, 
A brave piece of service performed by valiant Colo. Craford, against Colon. Bleyer and his party.  but in a fair and open field, drew into battalia, and sent out their forlorn hopes of each side, who presently charged one another, and so both bodies met, and both these Commanders bravely disputed the business a while in a fiery and steely language, and with much interchangeable courage, on both sides; But, at last, our party most undauntedly routed the Enemy, Colonel Craford having himself very sorely wounded Colonel Bleyer in this fight; but his horse not being maimed, his heels did his Master more service than his own hands could, and carried him fiercely away, half dead, out of the field, all the rest, both horse and men, being either taken or killed, save only about 13 or 14 who escaped with the wounded Governor, 20 were so sorely wounded that they could not be brought prisoners into Ailsbury, and not being capable of doing any further hurt, they left them behind, to creep (if they could) to their own Surgeons and seek their own cure. The 2 Governors, as we were credibly informed, meeting together, in person, in this brave encounter, assaulted each other in a single combat, and for a while bravely on both sides maintained the duel, till Bleyer received a most dangerous wound, and as I said before, by his horse's swiftness escaped away. We lost but 3 men of ours, in this furious fight, and so ours most victoriously returned to Ailsbury, with their prisoners.  
About the 28 of this instant, the Committee of the County of Kent, (that brave unanimous County, most happy by the nobleness of an ennobled Gentry) presented a petition to the House of Commons, 
The County of Kent petition the Parliament for their setting forward of the Selfdenying Ordinance.  wherein they expressed great thankfulness unto them for their indefatigable and constant care and pains for the good of the public Affairs of the Kingdom; unto which also they declared their singular good affection and faithfulness: And humbly also prayed that the House would proceed in fully passing the Selfdenying Ordinance, for the disabling of the Members of either House to bear any Office in the Commonwealth, during the time of these Wars (which Ordinance, though it had about this time clearly passed in the House of Commons, yet received some long stop and contradiction in the House of Peers) which Petition of those Kentish Gentlemen, was received with great acceptance, and thanks returned to the Petitioners, with promise of their best endeavours to hasten it. Some other particulars were also inserted in their Petition, concerning some particular distempers and greivances in that County, which were referred to a Committee, and in special concerning the unnatural Conspirators for the betraying of Dover Castle, and Chattam, in Kent, who were then kept in durance to be in due time called to a severe account for that most vile and treacherous design, which was afterward effected, with the death of divers of the chief ringleaders therein.  
Finally about the 30 of this instant January, we received certain intelligence out of Warwickshire, of the singular good success of Major Purefoy, at Compton House against the Enemy, as by his own Letter will more fully appear, which for the Readers better content and satisfaction, I have thought fit here to insert.  
The Copy of Sergeant Major Purefoyes Letter (the brave Governor of Compton House in Warwickshire) to his Colonel, Colonel Purefoy.  
SIR,  
I Shall here, briefly relate (for all passages would be too tedious to trouble you withal) how that first I desire, with all my Soul, that God may have all the praise and glory which is due to a God that hath now and ever showed himself unto me, almost by miracles, in delivering me and all under my Command, from very many and most eminent dangers. This night, about 2 of the clock, a 1000 or 1200 horse and foot of the Enemies fell upon me at Compton, stormed my Outworks, gained the Stables, and cut down my great Drawbridge, possessed themselves of all my Troop of Horses, and took about 30 of my foot Soldiers in their beds, 
A sudden and most dangerous assault of about 1200 of the Enemy upon Compton House  who lay over the Stables, and all this was done almost before a man could think what to do: We received this fierce alarm, as we had good cause, and presently made good the new Sconce, before the Stonebridge, and beat them out of the great Court, there being about 200 entered, and ready to storm the Sconce; but (by God's mercy) we gave them so hot a sally, 
Ours bravely sally out upon the Enemy and beat them back  that we forced them to retreat back to the Stables, Barns, and Brewhouse, where from the windows they played very hot upon us; I than commanded Lieutenant Purefoy and my Quartermaster (having no other Officers of quality at home, the rest being abroad, with about 30 of my best Troopers) to sally out upon the Enemy with a party of some 40. and to attempt the regaining of the Brewhouse, and the rooms above, which instantly they did, with most gallant resolution and courage, Sergeant Bird was one that came not short in bravery of any. 
40 of ours most bravely beat the Enemy.  This party, I say, fought thus with the Enemy, and came to push of Pike, nay, to the swords point, and laid about them so bravely, that they forced the Enemy to fly from chamber to chamber, Whereupon, I presently sent out my youngest brother, the Ensign, with my 3 Corporals of horse, and about 40 more men, to relieve the first party; And I assure you, Sir, the young Boy fought well, and led on his men most bravely and relieved his brother, by which means, all the upper rooms were regained, and now the Enemies kept only the Stables and the Barns which they held stoutly, but my resolute Soldiers did then so thunder their horse, and Reserves of foot that stood within Pistol shot, 
Sir William and Sir Charles Compton beaten back and the Outworks recovered.  that Sir William and Sir Charles Compton, (who were there present) began to give ground, which, my Soldiers easily perceiving, some leapt out at the windows, and so into the Outworks, by which means I recovered my Outworks again, and made a sally-port, by which the Enemy endeavoured to retreat at, but finding they were frustrated of their hopes, and that my Musketeers did play so hot upon the great Draw-bridge, that they could not be relieved; and withal, we having beaten the Enemy out of that work, which we stormed, when you took the House, 
The great drawbridg recovered & the Enemy cooped up.  I had time, thereby, to recover fully the great Draw-bridge, and instantly got new Ropes, and new Locks, and drew it up again inspite of them all. Now by this means, all those (whose names are here with enclosed to you) were all in Cobs pound, having no means in the world to retreat, whereupon they fought desperately for the space of 3 hours, and the valiant Comptons' perceiving their extreme loss, attempted 3 several times to storm and regain my Outworks, 
A fierce fight on both sides.  but all the 3 times were beaten off with as much resolution (I praise the Lord) and gallantry of my Soldiers, as could be expressed by men. The Enemy within set fir● on the hay, straw, and all combustible stuff, to smother my men out of the upper rooms, which did indeed much annoy them, and the Enemy, without, threw at least an 100 hand-granadoes upon the houses, so as they set them on fire in 3 several places; Whereupon Sir Charles and Sir William thinking all their own, 
Sir Charles and Sir Will Compton proffer to parley, but rejected.  sent a Trumpeter to parley, but I commanded that none should parley, nor would I permit the Trumpeter to speak at all unto me, and ●ain he would have said something to the Soldiers, but I commanded him upon his life to be gone and not to return any more upon his peril, and we continued in fight still, and the foresaid fire did so increase that I thought it fit to offer quarter to all those that were in the Stable, 
A fierce assault made on the enemy in the stable.  for their lives only, but they would not hear me. Upon which I drew all my men together, and fell violently in upon them, in which assault were slain and taken prisoners, all whose names are in the ensuing List. This did so dishearten the Comptons' and all their forces, that they presently drew off all their foot, and only faced me with their horse, and sent another Trumpeter to parley, 
The Enemy enforced to retreat & be gone  but I commanded to give fire upon him; that he returned with no other an answer, but what a Musket could speak. And thus by God's providence and mercy we were clearly rid of them. Sir, this is as true and short a narration, as I could conveniently give you. I am (as we are all)  
Your obliged Servants and Kinsmen, George & William Purefoy. Compton, Jan. 30. 1644.  
We recovered all our own men, again, that the Enemy had taken.  
A List of the Officers, and Soldiers slain and taken Prisoners. Captains 3. Leivtenants 2. one Ensign, one Quartermaster, one Cornet; ● Corporals, 3 Sergeants, Troopers and foot Soldiers, about 50. 
The slain, and the prizes and prisoners taken  besides 6 Cartloades of wounded men carried off, and near upon 40 Common Soldiers left dead behind them, in and about the House or Garrison. Of mine own men both horse and foot, only one was desperately wounded, and another slightly hurt, but not one, I say, was slain; a rare and even wonderful providence indeed. We took of the Enemy's horse and foot arms, an 100 Muskets, 40 Pistols, and about 20 hand-granadoes. This fight began about 2 of the clock in the morning, and continued till about 9 in which time the Enemy stormed us 4 several times, and were still beaten off; 
A most remarkable Victory & Deliverance.  the number of them were both horse and foot between a 1000 and 1200 as their prisoners confessed. With their hand-granadoes, they desperately fired our stables, barns, and brewhouse in 3 several places, but did us no more considerable hurt; and we lost about 20 horse, and some of our Muskets. And was not here, good Reader, a most remarkable evidence and undeniable testimony of God's strong arm with us, in putting such a resolute and courageous spirit into the heart of our Soldiers, and so admirably delivering them from the rage of such a resolute and furious enemy?  
And at the same time, we had also farther certain information, that the very next night that this foresaid defeat was performed, 6 Troops of horse belonging to the Garrison of Northampton, went forth thence to discover what parties of the Kings were haply 
Another brave defeat given to a part of the foresaid Enemy's horse in their hoped return home, by Northampton Horse.  to be found about the Country (not knowing at all of the foresaid brave defeat at Compton House) and fell upon 3 Troops of the same Enemies which had been so beaten before at Compton House, and were now quartered, in their return, that night, in Kings-Sutton, near Banbury, where Northampton forces took 57 horse and 6 prisoners, the rest of their men getting into the Church there, and into another great house close by it. Northampton forces lost in this adventure but one man, who was shot as he went to fasten a Petard unto the Church door, and one more was wounded; All the horse taken as aforesaid, they sold at Northampton the next day of their return home. 
The Burning-Bush not consumed.   
And here now again, good Reader, be pleased to make a little stay, 
A brief & grateful recital of all this last Months Parliamentary mercies.  and with a gracious and grateful heart, a little to muse and meditate on (and that with wonder and amazement too) the many and marvellous acts of Gods most precious providence in all the remarkable passages of this month also, in preserving his blessed Bush, still Burning, but unconsumed still, in the midst of so many fierce and furious devouring emflagration●, as namely, In the death and downfall of those impious and Arch Traitors of their Country, Carew, and the hotham's. The brave exploits of our forces about Winchester, and Ailsbury; Colonel Laughorns brave services in Wales, related by renowned Captain Swanleyes' Letter to the Parliament. The brave defeat given to Prince Robber, that Prince of Pilferers, by renowned Major General Brown at Abbington; together with the brave beating of the Enemies at Plymouth; And Colonel Holborns good services in the West. The New-Modell-Army constituted, and the brave Victory of Sir William Brer●tons forces in Cheshire; Together with Colonel Crafords good service; And the zeal of the Kentish Gentry for the good of the Kingdom. And in the last, not least, most famous defeat given to the fierce and furious Royalists at Compton House; And the good service of the Northampton forces, now last related.  
And, now, then, tell me, good Reader, whether England hath not just cause, in admiration, and adoration of our English Israel's great and glorious Shepherd, who neither slumbers nor sleeps, in most happy, though most unholy, sinful and ungrateful England's constant conservation, to sing, and say, with that Princely Prophet, 
Psal. 76. 4, 5.  King David, Thou art (O Lord our God) more glorious and excellent than the mountains of prey; The stout hearted are spoilt, they have slept their sleep, and none of the men of might have found their hands. Surely, therefore, even the wrath of man shall praise thee, and the remainder of his fury shalt thou restrain. 
February. 1644.  But now to go on.  
AND now in the entrance into the first observation of this Month of Februaries wonder of the Burning Bush not consumed, I shall begin with the information of a very pretty piece of service performed by some of the Parliaments Forces near Melton Mowberry, 
A brave passage of God's providence at Sir Erasmus de la Fountains house near unto Melton Mowberry.  which was thus: A party of Horse from Beaver Castle, came suddenly and secretly to assault some of our Leicestershire Forces, who were making a Garrison at Sir Erasmus de la Fountains House near Melton, aforesaid, with a full intent and hope to have surprised them, but were happily frustrated of their expectation; For, the Parliaments forces having notice of the Enemy's approach, they valiantly repulsed them, took and slew about 8 of them, and during the time of the skirmish, some of our nimble Soldiers running hastily to supply the want of powder, unawares set one or 2 barrels of powder on fire, which suddenly blew up one part of Sir Erasmus his House, and did very little other hurt; But see the wise and good providence of God, who turned this little loss into a far greater gain and benefit, for by this means, at the least 300 pounds worth of Plate and many good Arms were discovered, which had before been hid in the ground, and thus made good prize, to be employed for the Parliaments service and benefit.  
And about the same time, we were also certainly informed by Letters out of Leicestershire, that a party from Ashbey de la Zoneb, came to Cole-Orton, 
Ashby Cavalei●s beaten sound at Cole-Orton in Leicestershire  intending to have surprised our men there, and to have plundered the Town; but they missed of their aim, and in the attempt lost above 70 or 80 of their horse. Very good helps to carry on the business this Winter season.  
And about the 6 of this instant February, we received credible intelligence out of Wales, that Colonel Gerard with all the strength he could raise at that time, came against Cardigan Castle (which he understood was but meanly provided of necessaries) and therefore besieged it; whereof valiant Colonel Jones was then Governor. Gerard by a stratagem having got into the Town, 
A brave defeat given to Colo. Gerard, before Cardigan in Wales.  broke down the Bridge between it and Pembrokeshire, which was near the Town and Castle of Cardigan, that so no relief might come to them; and heerupon, he presently by a Trumpeter sent a summons to the Castle. But courageous Colonel Jones returned an answer to this effect. That he had in the Castle 300 raw hides, and when all other necessaries failed, they would eat them, and when they were spent, he and his Soldiers would come forth and fight for their lives, and neither give nor take quarter, and in the interim would keep the Castle. In which mean time, the brave Colonel sent to renowned Colonel Laughorn, to come to his relief, which he promised and did; 
Col. Laughorn bravely relieves Colonel Jones at Cardigan▪  but when this valiant Colonel came to the Bridge, he found it broken down, as aforesaid, which was some impediment to his desire, but yet, like an invincible Caesar resolving, Aut viam invenire aut facere, with Faggots, boards, and such like helps, he made away to pass over the River, and whiles he was getting over, he caused an Arrow to be shot into the Castle with a Letter in it, to give them notice that he was come, and so presently he fell upon the Enemy on one side, and Colonel Jones issuing out of the Castle on the other side, they soon gave Gerard enough to do and put Gerard and all his forces to a total rout, 
The prisoners and prizes.  took and slew 350 of them, 200 being found dead on the place, they took also 600 Arms, 150 prisoners, among whom were divers Officers and men of quality and 4 brass pieces of Ordinance.  
Much about this foresaid time was that great bluster of a Parturiunt montes, nascitur ridiculus mus; 
The Treaty for a pretended Peace at Uxbridge.  as, indeed, at last it proved. I mean the Treaty of Peace at Uxbridge; In which interim, a Petition was contrived by some mischievous Malignants of the County of Buckingham, wherein one Sir John Laurence of the same County was a great stickler, and was afterwards, for it, sent for to London, and committed to safe custody. 
Buckingham Malignant's petition the Parliament Commissioners in the midst of the Treaty.  Which Petition was intended to be presented to the Parliament Commissioners at Uxbridge, in the very midst of the time of their Treaty; the effect of this Petition was; That Religion might be established in this Kingdom, as in the purest times (which, indeed, were very impure, especially in point of Discipline, which was mere Popish) of Queen Elizabeth: That, thus, these malignant Petitioners might the more subtly and slily, incense the other (Popish or Atheistical) Oxonian Commissioners, and the whole Malignant party, the apparent and known Enemies to the truly intended pure Reformation of Religion, and so to make this plot to conduce much to the breaking off of this Treaty, and that upon the dissolution thereof, the King and his party might with the better colour) declare and publish to the world (though most falsely) that the Parliament was the only cause of the annihilating of this Treaty, 
A notorious plot by the Buckingham petition against the Parliament.  and so consequently Enemies to Peace, and thus bring an universal odium upon the Parliament; and their party, whose unsettled and unstable spirits, wholly addicted to faction and novelties, would not admit of any thing but their own pretended Reformation, but rather chose the continuance and increase of War and bloodshed. And for the more full and clear assurance (forsooth) of this their most foul and false accusation, and, indeed, for the firmer corroborating of this their most dangerous and devilish plot and design; they at Oxford had already, before hand, drawn up a Full Declaration, and translated it into several Languages, that thus, as soon as they had treated as far as they had plotted and preintended, 
A Declaration prepared and printed at Oxford, to be spread over the 3 Kingdoms, & into foreign parts touching the cause of the breach of the Treaty.  they might speedily disperse those their foresaid Declarations, both over all our 3 Kingdoms, and also into all other Foreign parts, to prepossess them with those their most gross and abominable untruths, and so delude them, and all ours, by most falsely laying the cause of the breach of this (on their side) mere mock-Treaty, upon the innocent Parliament; Thus, hoping, I say, by these specious pretences (having preoccupated the hearts and belief of the people) that they could not easily be undeceived at the second hand.  
But see now the admirable wisdom and justice of our God against them, and his great mercy toward us, who so ordered the issue, and the upshot of that Treaty, that by the refusal of 3 Articles, mainly and primarily to be insisted on, and by the King's Commissioners to be condescended unto, to the Parliaments Commissioners, namely, 1. The Settlement of the true Reformed Religion. 2. The Establishment of the Militia for a season, in the power of the Parliament. 
The true cause of the dissolution of the Treaty at Uxbridge.  3. The prosecution of the War against the Rebels of Ireland, and disclaiming that accursed Cessation of Arms with them, that by their most unjust refusal, I say, of these 3 Articles, whereof, not one would be fairly granted, and especially by those Oxford Commissioners, so irreligious and even Atheistical justifying, and that (in the King's name) that most horrid and hideous Rebellion in Ireland, sealed with the most inhuman massacre and bloody slaughter and murdering of almost 200000 innocent English Protestants, the Kings said Commissioners, most irreligiously and audaciously daring openly to profess that his Majesty their Master could not in point of Honour, 
The wicked Cessation of arms in Ireland. justified by the King's Commission at Uxbridge.  Justice, and Conscience, yield to the Parliaments desire therein; whereby, I say, even this unreasonable and irreligious refusal of the Parliaments most just and righteous demands (notwithstanding the foresaid Declaration framed and forged on the impious anvil of Don Digbies vicious invention at Oxford, whereby they thought to have gained much credit, reputation, and advantage to their party, yet) I say, by this refusal, they became great losers in the affections of the people over the whole Kingdom, 
Malum consilium consulioribus pessi●●●.  who also saw that in the space of full 20 days sitting, they would not (as I touched before) agree to any one Proposition of the Parliaments, which so gross miscarriage of things, especially in that abominable justification of the Irish Rebellion must needs lie upon them as a most odiously black indelible stain of intolerable ignominy and disgrace to all succeeding posterity. And, indeed, to speak the truth plainly, what good could be expected from a Treaty which was to be held with a seduced and misled King, a degenerated and ignoble Nobility, a proud and superstitious Clergy, an ambitious and atheistical Gentry, and an irreligious and most malignant Common people? But now to proceed.  
About the 8 of this instant February, there came Letters to the Committee of both Kingdoms, of an excellent piece of service performed by Major Bridges, Governor of Warwick Castle, the particulars whereof, for the Readers better satisfaction, I will set down in the words of the Majors own Letter, which was as followeth.  
Sir,  
I doubt not but you will be glad to hear of the good success which God hath given unto me, in delivering into my hands a Garrison of the Enemies called Stoke House in Glocestershire but borders on Warwickshire, 
A brave piece of service performed by Major Bridges, Governor of Warwick, at Stok-New-house in Worcestershire.  where, together with the House, I also took a Troop of Horse; And it will be the more remarkable in respect of the goodness of God, when we consider the small power I had to do it, and the place it stood in, being between 2 of the Enemy's Garrisons, the one was Cambden, but 2 miles distant, the other Evisham, 7 miles distant. But I being affected with the sad complaints of the Country, and considering the danger of delays, and having notice that the Enemy wrought hard to perfect the Fortifications, resolved to take the present opportunity; and that my design might be carried on with the more privacy, wherein much of my safety consisted, the Regiment of our County being absent or not in readiness, I sent 2 of the 3 Companies of mine own Garrison, by small parties, into the Country, as to gather Contribution, but commanded the Officers not to return till I gave them orders; to these 2 Companies I got an addition of 60 Foot, commanded by one of my Captains, of the Town-Company, with some part of mine own Troop and about 70 Horse, belonging to the Committee of Worcestershire, and thus I marched all that night, and being come to the House I began to storm it, and the next day fell upon the House and stables, by break of day, both at once. The House was of stone very strong; they within it had made up the windows and doors with brick and stone, and defended the House very stoutly for about an hour and a half, but at length we entered by force, and took the House and all therein, 
The House taken by storm and all in it.  without the loss of one man, (blessed be the Lord) notwithstanding that in all that time we were without shelter, and the bullets and stones flew thick about our ears. Since this, I heard that the Enemy drew out of Evisham and Cambden, to relieve their Friends, but could not come up time enough; by which means (God so appointing) I returned with my prisoners and spoil unmolested, a List whereof you have herewith immediately following: And to conclude, the said House being a Papists, and the whole Garrison of that Religion, to prevent the building of any more such Rooks nests, I fired the House, and desire, you would with us, praise God for this Victory. Sir,  
Your Servant, John Bridges. Warwick Castle, Feb. 8. 1644.  
A List of the Prisoners taken by Major Bridges, Governor of Warwick Castle, at Stoke House in Gloucestershire, Captain Edward Brent, Captain George Brent, Captain Richard Canning, Captain Smith, Captain Thomas Canning; together with about 30 more, Officers and Gentlemen of quality, all Papists, and many other common Soldiers.  
About the 10 of this instant we were also credibly informed by Letters out of Cheshire, that Captain Stones (a brave active and loyal Commander under Sir William Brereton, and now Governor of Eccleshall Castle, 
Partshall Garrison taken by brave Major Stones, Governor of Eccleshall Castle.  in the County of Stafford) with a small party marched against Partshall House, another Popish Garrison of the Enemies, which was strongly fortified and Moated about; He taking the opportunity of the Draw-bridge, being let down, suddenly forced his passage, surprised the Sentinels, and so fell in among the whole Garrison, fought bravely with them for a good season, killed many of them in the fight, and took prisoners, Colonel Ashbey, the Governor, with divers Gentlemen of quality, a Jesuit, which was their Priest, and Son and Heir to a Popish Knight, and about 60 Soldiers; and thus we were possessed of the whole House, with all the Arms and Ammunition, and other good prize which was within it.  
We also were credibly assured by Letters from Abbington, about the 14 of this instant February, that Major General Brown, that most renowned, 
Major General Brown active about Oxford.  valiant, and active Commander, sent forth a party of Horse toward Harrington, who having intelligence, where the Enemy kept a Court of Guard, about half a mile from Harrington, our said Forces got between them and the Town, by which means they surprised the whole Guard, being 19 men, and brought them all prisoners into Abbington. And that the said Noble Major General hearing of some provisions which were going from some Malignants in those parts, to Oxford, he sent out a party to intercept them, who took 27 Horse load of Corn, Cheese, and other provisions of which they had then no little want at Oxford.  
About the 16 instant we were informed by Letters out of the North, 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy by Colo. Lambert's forces at Heightley in Yorkshire.  that about 150 of the Enemy's Horse from Skipton, fell upon the Parliaments quarters at Heightley, where they suddenly surprising our Guards, they came into the Town and took near an 100 prisoners, and 60 Horse with their booty: But as they were about to retreat, Colonel Lambert's men being quartered near hand took the alarm and came to relieve Colonel 〈◊〉 men (whose quarters had been thus beaten up, the Colonel himself being then absent) and performed their parts so gallantly, that they rescued all our own prisoners, and most of the booty which the Enemy had taken, killed 15 of them on the place, took about 20 of them prisoners, wounded and took the Commander in Chief of the Enemy's party, Captain Hugher; killed his Lieutenant also, and pursued the rest to the very gates of Skipt●n. On our side was lost in this service Captain Salmon, one of Colonel Lambert's Commanders and about 8 Soldiers.  
About the 18 of this instant February, 
Ever to be honoured Sir Tho. Fairfax come to London, and sent for to the house of Commons in Parliament, to receive from them the honour of General of all the Kingdom's forces.  noble and renowned Sir Thomas Fairfax, being nominated and chosen to be the Chief General of all the Kingdom's forces and Armies, came to London, out of Yorkshire, in a private manner, desiring to avoid all ostentation; there were in company with him, Colonel Sir William Constable, Colonel Rigbey, Colonel Sandi●s, and Colonel Alured, with some other Officers; and for the more expeditious setting forth of this most noble General, according to an Ordinance passed by both Houses of Parliament, the Commons appointed a Committee to consider how moneys, clothes and other necessary recruite for his Army might be speedily and most conveniently procured, and to enable him completely to march into the field with a fit train of Artillery, etc. to be repaired and every way made fit for him as soon as money came in upon the Assessment, by the Ordinance for the said Army. And Sir Thomas being now come to Town, within a day or 2 after the House of Commons sent for him by 4 of the Members of that House, which was the respect given him, and when he came into the House, as a farther addition of honour, a Chair was set for him to sit down upon, but most modestly he refused it. Then, Mr. Speaker told him what he had in Command from the House, to deliver unto him, which was, The great trust which the Kingdom reposed in him in the Command of this Army, and the good opinion they had of him for his valour and fidelity, giving him thanks, in the name of the whole House, for the many and great services he had done for the public in defence of Religion, Laws, and Liberties, and encouraging him to go on in the same, as he had begun, wherein he should much honour God, and endeer his Country and Kingdom unto him, which he assured him, would not be unmindful of him, and his labour, love, and loyalty to it, in due time: But of this more hereafter.  
About the 20 of this instant, we had certain information by Letters out of the Northern parts, of the most welcome news of the taking of the Town and Church of Scarborough, which was strongly fortified, together with the Haven and at least an 120 ships, 32 pieces of Ordnance, and much other rich prize; by that most active, valiant, and successful Soldier, and brave Commander Sir John Meldrum; the manner of it being said to be thus: This noble Colonel Sir John Meldrum stormed the Town in 4 several places, 
Scarborough Town, Church & Haven, taken by valiant Sir John Meldrum.  with English and Scottish Soldiers, who went on with such gallantry, that they gained the Town and Church, with the loss only of 11 of their men. In the Church they took 80 prisoners, and with them, he that had been Governor of Hemsley Castle. But the most base and cowardly apostate Cholmley, when he perceived the Town like to be lost, fled into the Castle, and was bravely pursued, and one of the works thereof entered, but the white Tower in the Castle commanding that work, 
Cholmley fled into the Castle endeavours an escape by Sea.  they beat our men out of it again with stones. The Liver-hearted Cholml●y (now despairing together with the conscientiousness of his former guilt in his most treacherous defection from the Parliament, endeavoured to escape by Sea, in his Pinnace (or rather his running Horse, as he called it) which then road at Anchor at a little distance, to help him at a straight or dead lift; but such was the activity of Sir John Meldrum, that with boats he got between the Pinnace and the Land, and so his cowardship was forced to confine himself into the Castle again. 
Cholmley had 5 Dunkirk Vessels with him at Scarborough.  This apostate Sir Hugh Cholmley had 5 Dunkirk Vessels with him at Scarborough, who for a while gave interruption to our men in storming the Town, but our Cannoneers sunk 2 of them with their Ordnance, and the other 3 fled for it. Before the storm Sir Hugh was summoned to yield the Town: but like himself, he gave a base and scornful answer, and when the Townsmen would have yielded the Town, he brought Soldiers out of the Castle, and compelled them to fight in the defence of it as long as they were able. But hereof more, in its own proper place. Only, in the interim, take this own Letter of Sir Hugh Cholmleyes, which he wrote to some Commander in the King's Army, but was intercepted by the way, and which was as followeth.  
SIR,  
WE are now blocked up close in the Castle, and divers of our Soldiers run away to the Enemy, and it is to be feared that the ill accommodation will daily decrease our number: You know the consequence, and believe me it requires speedy supply, for reasons which I may not express: 
A Letter of Sir Hugh Cholmleys intercepted.  I pray you signify where or from whence I may expect and hope for relief, and whether any expectance from the Queen, or Ireland, or probability of a good issue from the Treaty; of which particulars I desire to be satisfied, that I may not be totally ignorant: Not that the failing of any, or of all these shall make me quit this trust otherwise than becomes a Gentleman, and good subject: Your Colonel Wharton salutes you. And I am  
Your humble Servant, Hugh Cholmley. Scar. Castle, Feb. 24.  
Here are 10 Colours of Scots, as I imagine, though not above 800 men of them; but Meldrum (who commands in Chief, and is the most active man here) hath 6 or 700 more of the Lord Fairfaxes Foot.  
About February the 22. we had certain intelligence of a brave piece of service, done by a party of Colonel John Heynes his Regiment, which was certified to be thus. 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy by Major Temple, near Dennington.  That the said Colonel receiving intelligence of a French Regiment of Horse, and some other Troops of goring Brigade, quartered near Newberry, he sent out a party of his Regiment from Okingham, under the command of Major Temple, to beat up their quarters, which party after a very hard march, coming near the Enemy's quarters, they understood that the said party were all drawn off. But they had also farther intelligence of another party of the Enemies quartered at Ham, 8 miles from Dennington Castle, whither they instantly advanced, and fell upon them in their quarters, took there 40 good Horse, and all their Arms, together with about an 100 li. of Contribution money, which the Enemy had gathered thereabout, took prisoners, Major William Maxwell, Agitant General to Prince Maurice, Captain Robert Paddon, Captain of a Troop of Horse, John Cox his Lieutenant, and 24 common Soldiers, and so returned safe with their prisoners and prizes unto Ockingbam.  
And about the 24 of this instant, we were certainly informed, by a Letter written from Captain Peirce to Sir John Young, a worthy member of the House of Commons, 
Another brave defeat given to that apostate Skellum Greenvil, at Plymouth.  of a brave defeat given to that base apostate Skellum Greenvill, before Plymouth, which said Letter containing a full relation thereof, I have here (for the Readers better content and satisfaction) inserted, which was as followeth.  
Sir, The good success which it hath pleased God to give our Forces, lately, makes me set pen to paper, thereby desiring to inform you that upon the 18 of February, the Enemy having the night before made a work upon the old work at Mount Stamford, with a very large line on both sides from the work: The Seamen in the morning fell on them, and took one halfmoon, which was made at the South-end of the line; but the Enemy's horse coming upon them, forced them to retreat, but with no loss on our side, blessed be God; Upon which we were all commanded to Arms; Several companies were drawn out to go over, and a Troops of Horse; One being still quartered on that side, to join with some Sea men, taken on shore for that purpose; all (I think) consisting of about 500 and all the rest of the Garrison were commanded to march out to face the Enemy on the North side, and were drawn without our Line, within Musket shot of their work under the hill, the said hill much befreinding us, so as they could not play much upon us. All we did was only sending out small parties to shoot, as if we intended to fall on, that so they might draw off some of their forces from the other side of the water, where our purpose was to fall on; and accordingly they did draw off some of their Horse, and so we crossing their expectation, fell on where we were least looked for, and about 2 of the clock in the afternoon, our foot, who were most of them Sea men, marched up most resolutely to Mount Stamford, the forlorn hope of our Horse going before, and the Reserve with them, in the bottom, who had the advantage of some hedges, 
The brave resolution of Plymouth men, in winning Mount Stamford, and beating away the Enemy.  which they well-lined with our Musketeers, who fired upon the Enemy, and they on us, where and when were poured out as mighty Volleys of shot as I have ever seen or heard, and whiles our foot were getting up the hill, our horse and the Enemies met; who most resolutely and bravely disputed the business not long, even about half an hour, and made the Enemy rather trust to their horse legs than to their own swords, our horse following them amain; and our foot se●ing what good success the horse had, went, nay rather, ran up to the Enemies work with their Colours in their hands, and instantly made the Enemy fly for it, and thus routing totally all their horse and foot bravely, took possession of the whole work, and pursued the Enemy in their flight above a mile, hewing, and cutting them amain as they basely fled.  
Now the names of those we took prisoners were Lieutenant Colonel Mohun, a Lieutenant Colonel of Horse; Major Richard Heal, Baronet Heals brother; Captain Maynard (who had formerly taken up Arms on our side) Captain Hill, Captain Aston, and Captain Hatchins, Lieutenant Waring, Lieutenant Inglet, Lieutenant Ashford, Lieutenant Manwaring, Ensign Halsie, Ensign Battishill, and of private men about an 108. We also took 300 Arms, in the work of Mount Stamford, some barrels of powder, good store of Mattocks, Shovels and Faggots, and some Horses; on our part we had but one man slain, and that by an accident, some few hurt, and but one man taken by the Enemy. After this brave bickering we had a day set apart for a special Thanksgiving to God for this great Victory; and very shortly after called a Council of War to try such of them as had heretofore taken up arms on our side, but were now revolted and proceeded against 3 of them, viz. Captain Maynard, Lieutenant Ashford, and Ensign Battishill, who were executed the next day, and some others afterward followed.  
And about the latter end of this Month of February, we received the most welcome news of the most memorable and sudden surprisal of the strong Town of Shrewsbury by Colonel Mitton, that most active and loyal Commander, and Colonel Bowyer, assisted by Sir William Breretons, and Colonel Mittens forces; together with the eminent prisoners and prizes taken by those Parliament forces, which was certified and ratified by several Letters out of Shropshire, sent to London, with the exact and true relation of the manner of the taking of it, it being a place of great concernment, and one of the most considerable Vpland Garrisons, which the King then held in the whole Kingdom: I shall therefore give the Reader a most true though brief narration thereof, extracted out of the Letters written from the Committees of Shrewsbury, to the Speaker of the House of Commons, with the List of the prisoners and prizes taken therein; which was as followeth.  
Right honourable Sir,  
IT hath pleased God miraculously to deliver the strong Town of Shrewsbury, into our hands, with all the Commanders, Officers, and Soldiers therein; 
The brave and strong Town of Shrewsbury surprised and taken.  a List of the chief of whom we have sent enclosed to you. The manner of taking of it was briefly thus. Upon the 22 of this Month of February, we drew out of our Garrisons of Wem, Moreton, and Stoke 250 horse, and the like number of foot, Sir William Brereton having sent us 250 foot, and 350 horse, which party by our Order was commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Rincking, (who in the Marshalling and managing of this design deserves much honour) and Captain Willy●r, together with Mr. Huson, a Minister, who also most valiantly and bravely led on the firelocks, with 50 Troopers dismounted under the Command of Lieutenant Bendebne, who led on their men with great courage and undaunted resolutions, after whom also followed 350 foot more, which by Severn side stormed the Town, near unto the Castlewall, and marched unto the Market-house, and there surprised the Mainguard, and then sent a party to secure the Castle-forehead-Gate, which was effected without much difficulty; and after a quarter of an hour, the drawbridge was let down and the gate opened, where valiant Colonel Mitton, Colonel Bowyer, 
The Town of Shrewsbury entered by ours.  and all the Gentlemen of this Committee, with the horse, entered, and immediately became Masters of the Town, and within 4 hours after, the Castle was surrendered upon quarter, for all but the Irish to march to Ludlow; and then the Enemy delivered up a strong Out-work in Frankwell, upon bare quarter for their lives.  
By 12 of the clock at noon, 
The Castle taken.  we became absolute Masters of the Castle and Town; wherein were taken many considerable prisoners, good store of Ammunition, and great store of Ordnance. The Committee of Wem, took as great care as possibly could be, that the well-affected in the Town might not in any measure suffer or be plundered, and therefore the Officers kept off the Soldiers from plundering the Town, that so the Committee might see right down, and none but Malignants only to suffer. The Committee gave present notice hereof, to Sir William Brereton, certifying him what they had done, who thereupon took care for forces to lie near them, to relieve Colonel Mitton, if occasion should be. The whole Country, I mean especially the well-affected party, were exceeding glad of this, and desired that Colonel Mitton might be Governor thereof, being well known unto them all, to be a most honest cordial, and well-affected Gentleman, and of singular and true integrity to the Parliaments Cause, whereof by many real experiments they had strong and indubitable ground and knowledge. Our horse, the day before had a long and weary march, they having been sent to surprise Sir William, and Sir Thomas Whitmore, a Parliament man, whereof more immediately. Sir, we shall not trouble you any further, but to subscribe ourselves.  
Your most humble Servants. A. Lloyd, Sam. Moor, Tho. Hunt, Ro. Clives, Rob. Cariton, Leigh. Owen. Salop, Feb. 24. 1644.  
A List of the prisoners taken in Salop, as aforesaid. Sir Michael Ernley Knight, and his Brother; Sir Rich. Loe Baronet; Sir Thomas Harris, Baronet; Sir Henry Frederick-Thyn, Baronet; Sir William Owen Knight; Sir John Wild senior, Knight; Sir John wild, junior, Knight; Sir Thomas Lister Knight: Together with 11 Esquires; 
The prisoners and prizes.  2 Lieutenant Colonels, one Major; 2 Doctors; 8 Captains; 15 Gentlemen; 3 Ancients; 4 Sergeants; 9 or 10 other Officers, and about 50 other prisoners, whereof some were Irish. One Captain and 5 others were slain. We also took 15 pieces of Ordnance, many hundreds of Arms; divers barrels of powder; All Prince Maurice his Magazine; The Town, the Castle and all the Works; divers Carriages, bag and baggage of the Princes; Besides many other prisoners and purchases, not discovered when this List was gathered. We lost only 2 men. And was not this a most rare and remarkable mercy and famous Victory indeed; and never to be obliterated out of the Tables of eternal memory and gratitude? As accordingly and most worthily, it was shortly after Ordered by the Parliament, 
The Parl. gratitude for this good news.  that a Solemn day of public Thanksgiving to God should be kept; And 20 li. was given to the first messenger that brought this most welcome news; and 10 li. to the second.  
And here I must desire the Reader to take notice of the most wise and righteous disposal of this great mercy unto us by the great and glorious Moderator of all things in Heaven and Earth; 
A remarkable north & singular passage of divine providence, in this famous victory.  Viz. That this so rare and famous defeat, given to the impious Enemies of God's Cause and Truth, was upon the very same day that the Mock-Treaty, (or rather Plot-Treaty) at Uxbridge, was happily dissolved, namely, Saturday, Feb. 22. 1645. A passage of singular divine providence, and not slightly to be pretermitted of us. But now to go on.  
Much also about the foresaid time, it was most certainly informed, that a party of Sir William Breretons forces (as was forementioned) under the command of Sir John Price, 
Apsley-House in Shropshire taken by Sir William Brereton.  a worthy Member of the House of Commons, had taken Apsley House in Shropshire, and therein Sir William Whitmore, and Sir Thomas his Son; Sir Fra. Oately, Mr. Owen, Mr. Fowler, Mr. Griffith, and divers other Gentlemen of quality, and about 60 Common Soldiers, as they were sitting upon a Commission of Array to raise forces for Prince Maurice; and they pursued the said Prince also, who still avoided Sir William, and at last got over Severn toward Chester, on the Welsh side. And from Ailsbury we had also, about the same time, certain intelligence, 
Colo. Crafords good service, at Roesham, near Oxford.  that that brave Commander Colonel Craford had performed a brave piece of service about Roesham 3 or 4 miles from Oxford, where he fell upon a party of the Enemy, and took 40 Horse with their Riders and Arms, among whom was a Sergeant Major, a Cornet, and some other Officers.  
And upon the 28 of this instant February, Letters came to the Parliament from ever renowned Colonel Massey, of a great Victory obtained by some of his forces under his brother's Command; Who (in the Forest of Dean) fell upon Sir John Winter, 
A most brave Victory obtained by Colon. Massies forces in the For rest of Dean.  routed him, and made himself swim the River of Wye, in which passage 60 of his men were drowned, 70 slain on the place, besides Colonel Gam, and Lieutenant Colonel Winter, and 120 taken prisoners, and a 140 horse taken, 2 Lieutenant Colonels, one Major, 4 Captains, and other Commanders and Officers, together with 300 Arms. And upon this Relation, a Letter of Thanks from the House of Commons was Ordered to be sent to Colonel Massey for his good service, and an Order also passed presently for providing money for so deserving a Commander.  
And now, good Reader, let me desire thee here to stay a little, and to take a summary and short survey of the rare and rich mercies of this Month also, 
The Burning-Bush not consumed.  even of the Burning Bush still Vnconsumed, nay rather, in the midst of furious flames, gallantly grown, and much improved, as hath been this month most evidently expressed, both, 
1.  In that notable passage of Providence at Sir Erasmus de la Fountains House; In the sound beating of Ashby Cavaliers at Cole-Orton; 
2.  and the brave defeat given to Welsh Gerrard, at Cardigan Castle. In that Mock-Treaty at Uxbridge; and that brave piece of service performed by Major Bridges, at Stoke-New-House in Gloucestershire; Together with Major Jones, his valiant taking of Partshall Garrison; and Major General Brownes activity about Oxford; In the brave defeat at Heightley in Yorkshire; 
3.  And the happy arrival at London, of Sir Thomas Fairfax to the Parliament, to receive his Commission to be Generalissimo of all the Armies of the Kingdom. 
4.  In the most valiant taking of Scarborough Town, Church and Haven; The brave defeat given to the Enemies near Dennington, by valiant Major Temple; Together with that renowned repulse given to Greenvill at Plymouth. 
5.  In the most happy and famous surprisal of the strong Town and Castle of Shrewsbury, and all the rich prizes therein. 
6.  And, finally, In the taking of Apsley House in Shropshire; The brave service of Colonel Craford at Roesham near Oxford; and the famous defeat given to the Enemies by renowned Colonel massy, in the Forest of Dean.  
In due and deep consideration and most grateful contemplation of all which so rare and rich mercies of this Month, let thy soul be still and ever ravished and rapt up with wonder and admiration at the infinite and unfathomed depth of this Gods free love and blessed bounty to his poor despised Church and Children, With which, 
Mat. 28. 20.  according to his faithful promise, he still abides, and so will continue even to the end of the world, to sustain and support it, maugre all the malicious machinations of Satan, and all his malignant Agents; And, therefore let us, with Christian courage and boldness exult in the rock of our Salvation, and with the undaunted Spirit and goldly resolution of renowned Luther, sing and say (as we have most just cause) The Lord of Hosts is with us, the God of Jacob is our refuge. 
Psal. 46. 11.  But now to proceed.  
AND here we shall again begin the comfortable contemplation of the next ensuing Month of Marches works of wonder, 
March. 1644.  to the high honour of our wonderworking God, with that famous business of the most admirable and rare recovery of the Town of Weymouth in the West, which was thus related.  
About the beginning of this Month of March, 
Melcomb-Regis bravely maintained, & Weymouth most admirably regained, by Colon, Sydenham.  1644. wee first received intelligence by Letters from that faithful and most valiant and vigilant Sea-Commander, Captain Batten, Vice-admiral of the Parliaments Navy, by Sea; That he had then lately relieved Melcombe-Regis, which (after the treacherous loss of Weymouth, the February before) still held out against the Enemy by God's special and mighty assistance and blessing on the famous, faithful, and indefatigable endeavours of renowned Colonel Sydenham, notwithstanding, I say, that poor Weymouth had been treacherously betrayed (by many of its own malignant Inhabitants) into the Enemy's hands. That in this great strait, I say, and exigent of time and danger, renowned Captain Batten being by divine providence come thither with his ships, releived them with such provisions as at that time they most wanted; and that, therewith, he had landed there an 100 of his stout Seamen, and that the Enemy might make the less use of the Town of Weymouth, Colonel Sydenham was necessitated to fire the ships which the Enemy had on Weymouth side, 
Colo. Sydenham necessitated to fire the ships in Weymouth Haven.  which (having the benefit of a fair wind fit for his design) he afterward performed accordingly, and not only burnt divers ships, but part of the Town of Weymouth also, which in that exigent, could not be avoided. Now renowned Colonel Sydenham with his brave Soldiers, and resolute Seamen all this while maintained Melcombe with admirable gallantry and courage, and at length, they most undauntedly regained the Chappell-fort of Weymouth, 
The Chappel-fort in Weymouth regained.  and therein 60 of the Enemies taken prisoners. And in this furious skirmish of thus regaining Chappell-fort, we took besides those in the Fort, one Lieutenant Colonel, one Major, 3 Captains, 3 Leivtenants, and a 100 common Soldiers, with store of provisions which the Enemy had newly got together, 
And a brave booty therein obtained.  and all this with the loss of but one man of ours, (a remarkable mercy of the Lord unto us) which did so enrage the Enemy, that Goring would needs be revenged, and vowed to assault us all at once, as after this he fruitlessly endeavoured, whereof more anon in its due place.  
This certain intelligence was at that time farther confirmed by 2 several Letters of Sir Lewis Dives, which had been intercepted by the Garrison of Lyme, 
2 Letters from Sir Lewis Dives intercepted.  the one of them to Sir John Barkley, Governor of Exeter, the other to the Governor of Bristol; In which Letters he signified the taking of the said Chappell-fort by Colonel sydenham's forces, and therefore desired Sir Richard Greenvill (that Skellum and base apostate) to come away speedily with his promised 1500 horse, and that the said Governors would hasten away the 500 foot they promised to Colonel Goring and himself; for, else, says he in his said Letters, The Crown of England is in danger to be lost, if Weymouth should be regained, by the Parliaments Forces. Now Goring, in this interim, being extremely vexed at the loss of the Chappel-fort, 
Goring is extremely vexed at the loss of the Chapel for't.  and considering that it was a very great prejudice to his other intended proceedings, he therefore resolved to fall again upon that Fort, and that they might (as they conceived) the more effectually do it, it was concluded by a Council of War to fall both upon that Fort, and on the Town of Melcomb also, at once, and in several places; and this to be done (as most works of darkness are) in the midst of the night. But, it pleased the Lord so graciously to order it, that the very same Evening that this storm was intended, one of our Soldiers who had been taken prisoner by the Enemy, made an escape, and came into Melcombe, 
goring resolution to fall upon Chapel for't & the Town of Melcomb at once, discovered and prepared for.  and gave the Governor notice of the Enemy's resolution, and that they would fall upon them, that night; so that by this means our men prepared themselves to stand stoutly upon their guard, and the Enemy came accordingly and assaulted the line about Melcomb, in 5 or 6 several places together, and the Chapel for't also at the same time, and did it with great violence and resolution; but were most bravely resisted by our men, till such time as the treacherous Townsmen within, 
The treachery of the Townsmen of Melcomb  let in many of the Enemy's forces through their backdoors, and so the Enemy came on their backs and made them somewhat to retreat; In which retreat, the Enemy being much strengthened by the assistance of the Town-Malignants, valiant Major Francis Sydenham was slain, a great loss unto us. But undaunted Colonel Sydenham observing this great strait, and brave Captain Batten also (who in this business deserved great honour and commendation, together with his valiant Seamen also, who most willingly came on shore to hazard their lives in this service, 
The Enemy though treacherously let in to Melcomb, yet bravely beaten our again with a great loss.  and fought most undauntedly, and for the sam● merited much praise and reward too) they both did mightily encourage their men, both with their words and examples too, not to shrink, but to follow on close upon the Enemy, and so led them up again into the very face of the Enemy, and enforced the Enemy to a swift retreat back again into Weymouth, with the loss of at least 250 of their men, who were slain and drowned in the River.  
Now the Enemy being thus retreated, our brave-spirited Soldiers stood still upon their guard, with expectation that the Enemy would have come on again, but they did not; for, the next morning, about 10 of the clock, the Enemy (as appeared) stricken with some panic fear, 
The Enemy also basely fly out of Weymouth  were all sneaked away out of Weymouth also, and secretly and suddenly had marched away, both horse and foot, in great haste, guarding their Rear with their Horse, leaving their own Colours behind them in their Fort, with all the Ordnance they took from us, and 2 pieces more, and some barrels of powder, 
And leave much good prize behind them.  with a great overplus of Arms and Ammunition, Victual, and other good booty, which had been brought thither by the Enemy; and, indeed, they took nothing away with them, but only some plunder of the Town.  
And thus after a very tedious siege, and much hard service for 18 days and nights together (during all which time our valia Soldiers put off neither arms, nor clothes, as I was credibly informed) they by God's infinite mercy obtained a most happy and comfortable enlargement and freedom from their cruel and murtherous-minded Enemies; 
Goring & Dives marched away from Weymouth, to Dorchester.  And thus Goring and Dives, who were both present in this service marched away to Dorchester, with their horse and foot, which were above 4000 whereas ours that were environed by them were not above 900. being also discouraged (or at least we justly might have been) for want of relief, and our little or no hope of relief; besides the former success of the Enemies, and yet that ours should so gallantly quit themselves, and so impregnably oppose and fall upon their Enemies, when they were at their strongest, and themselves in the lowest and most desperate condition, and besides, the Townsmen within being treacherous unto them, of whom above 40 had conspired to seize on the Fort which Colonel Sydenham possessed, and by procuring false keys to the prison doors to let out all the prisoners, and also (as I touched before) to let in the enemies at their backdoors; but the plot of the false keys was timely discovered and prevented, many of the Malignant Conspirators apprehended and imprisoned, some in this fight were slain, and some wounded, and those imprisoned, in a fit posture to be hanged, as afterward they were: We lost but 10 men on our side, in all this hot and furious service; 
The visible & most apparent hand of God in all this service.  All which premises considered, it must needs be granted that the hand of God was, indeed, most visibly seen in the whole carriage of this admirable action and famous defeat, wherein, I say, was an apparent vision of our present Parliamentary mighty wonder; Viz. The Burning Bush in the midst of such furious flames, not consumed; To God alone, therefore, be all the honour and glory of it.  
And March the 8 we had certain intelligence that a ship carrying 28 pieces of Ordnance, laden with store of arms and Ammunition was come into Weymouth from Rhoan in France, supposing Weymouth had still been in the Enemy's possession; 
Two ships came in unto the Parliaments possession at Weymouth.  and so was seized on for the Parliaments use. Yea, and about the same time, even 3 or 4 hours after the Enemy had quitted the Outworks of Weymouth (whereof you have at large heard before) a lusty serviceable ship of Weymouth, called the Endeavour, carrying in her 12 pieces of Ordnance, and laden with Salt and other commodities (belonging to some Malignants of those parts) which ship then lay close under Portland Castle, but having, as it seemed many honest Seamen in her, suddenly they cut her Cables, & swiftly, and of its own accord, came off to Captain Batten, then at Weymouth and Melcomb, although the Castle of Portland had made at least 7 or 8 shots at her. And thus we see how God most graciously blessed the affairs of that Town, at that time, both by Sea and by Land; to him alone be all the praise and glory of it.  
Shortly after, to wit, on Wednesday, March the 12. Both Houses of Parliament most piously concurred for the keeping of a Solemn day of Thanksgiving to Almighty God, 
A day of Solemn Thanksgiving at Christ Church in London.  at Christ-Church in London, for all these so many and marvellous rich mercies of the Lord unto us, Since the happy dissolution of that foresaid Treaty at Uxbridge; as namely, for the winning of Scarborough Town, & Haven; Shrewsbury, so unexpectedly and admirably put into the Parliaments hands; The extraordinary recovering of Weymouth, and even miraculous preservation of Melcomb Regis, etc. Where and at which foresaid time, Reverend, Learned, and Religious Mr. arrowsmith, and Mr. Vines, Preached before the Lords and Commons of Parliament, the Lord Major and Aldermen of the City of London, accompanying them there, at that holy service. And both Houses of Parliament immediately after passed an Ordinance for the payment of 2000 pound, 
2000 li. ordered to be paid to Weymouth.  to the brave Garrison of Weymouth, for the encouragement and reward of the good service done there, and for a supply of some necessaries in that Town.  
And besides all these remarkable mercy's of our good God to the Parliament, whereof you have most fully been informed, since, and even at the dissolution of that Mock-Treaty at Uxbridge; We were yet farther credibly assured by Letters from Ailsbury, about March the 16. That the King lost the Troop of Horse belonging to his own Lifeguard; 
The Kings own Life guard Troop of horse taken by us, near unto Oxford.  the manner of the taking of which prize was thus related. Ailsbury Garrison having intelligence of divers of the King's horse, quartered out of Oxford, for want of necessaries (about this time) within the Town (they that have spoiled a most fruitful Kingdom, will shortly, I hope, want bread and Pease for themselves.) Heerupon, valiant Captain Abricomie, a Scottish Commander in Ailsbury, and Major Ennis of newport-pagnel, marched from their Garrisons toward Oxford, with a party of horse to Killington, where, accordingly, they met with the Kings own Troop, as they had been informed. Our party went over at Islip Mill, and there they found the Enemy entrenched on the other side of the River; but our party of horse had carried Faggots and so filled-up the Trench with them and with earth, and so handled it that they blew up the Bridge, forced the Turn-pike and Chain, surprised the Guard, marched into the Town, took 40 gallant horse, worth (some said) 50 li. and Captain Cheyworth, Commissary General to the King, also the King's Surgeons own mate, with other prisoners; and in their return home, they took 4 more Cavalierian Troopers driving Cattle to the King's quarters, All which (praised be the Lord) they brought home safely, without any wound or loss of a man.  
About March the 14. the House of Commons received Letters from Sir William Brereton, that brave Commander, and pious Patriot of his Country, informing them of the singular good condition of Shrewshury; and also of a notable defeat given to the Forces of Prince Maurice, 
A brave defeat given to Prince Maurice his forces at Holt-bridge, by valiant Lieutenant Colonel Jones.  by a party of Sir William Breretons at Holt-Bridge, in Cheshire, under the Command of valiant Lieutenant Colonel Jones, the manner whereof was thus. Prince Maurice, being still greatly vexed in his mind at the sad loss of Shrewsbury, and as vigilantly as possibly he could, watching to catch and lay hold on all opportunities to be revenged on the Parliaments party, at last resolved upon one, and therefore sent a party of foot over the River of Dee, which parts Cheshire and Wales, and about 13 Companies got over the said River, by laying over it a Bridge of Canvas dipped in Pitch, over which 3 men might march abrest. These all being thus passed over, intended in a dark night, to have surprised Sir Williams said Garrison at Holt-bridge, and to have forced their passage that way to some other farther design; which Garrison, the Prince understood was maintained by only 2 Companies of Firelocks under the Command of Lieutenant Colonel Jones, who being thus, now, suddenly assaulted by the said numerous enemy, yet had his men in order and readiness to receive them, and entertained them with such a successful volley of shot, and with such valour and gallantry, that at the very first encounter and giving of fire, he put them to the rout and swift retreat, 
The slain.  killed in the pursuit Colonel Owen a Knight, and about an 100 Officers and Common Soldiers, took divers prisoners and Arms, and 5 Colours, forced the Enemy back again in great confusion over the River, in which passage many were drowned; and in which service we lost only 6 men that were slain, and among them, Major Jackson a valiant man and brave Commander.  
About the 16 instant, came Letters from ever to be honoured Sir William Waller, giving an account of a notable defeat given by his forces to the Winchesterian Cavaliers, 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy by Sir William Waller● forces.  the manner, thus. Colonel Ogle, Governor of Winchester for the King, sent out a party to beat up Sir William's quarters, thinking to take them at unawares; But, contrary to their expectation, they were most gallantly received by our men, and Colonel filips the Commander in chief of the Enemy's party was slain in the skirmish togewith Lieutenant Colonel Gardiner, 
The slain.  and divers others taken prisoners, and the rest sent back again by weeping-crosse with a flea in their ears.  
And about the 18 of this instant March, we received farther intelligence by other Letters from Colonel Cook, and renowned Sir William Waller, of a very great and famous Victory obtained by the said Sir William, and valiant and virtuous Lieutenant General Cromwell at the Devizes in Wilts, 
A great victory obtained by Sir William Waller & Leiutenant-gen. Cromwell, against Colon. Long, at the Devizes.  against Colonel Sir James Long, high Sheriff of Wiles, and his whole Regiment, being the same horse which conveyed or conducted the Prince from Oxford to Bristol; which said Letter making a full and exact relation thereof, I have here for the Readers better content and satisfaction thought fit to insert, verbatim, as it was Printed and published by authority, which was as followeth.  
Noble Sir,  
SInce Colonel Long was returned from conveying the Prince, with the Bishop of Armagh, and divers of the Oxford Nobility, to Bristol, we had intelligence that he was coming towards the Devizes, having a gallant Regiment of Horse, consisting of about 400 men, hereupon Sir William Waller endeavoured to get betwixt him and the Town; but having a long march, he got to the Devizes before Sir William approached, and was quartered there, with Colonel Sir Charles Lloyd, the Governor thereof, for about two days, by which time Sir William Waller made his approach.  
On Monday the 10 of this present March, he quartered with his whole Army at Almesbury, Normanton, Lake, Dearne, and Derrington, and a very strong party was commanded forth, out of which were drawn divers Scouts, which were sent towards the Devizes, Stepstone, and other parts, to discover the Enemy, and what strength they were of, some whereof returned in the evening with intelligence, that Colonel Long was in the Devizes, with a Posse Comitatus, or the County Forces, for this Long is the King's high Sheriff of the County of Wilts, son to Sir Walter Long, who lately deceased, who being in drink, fell from his horse near Chich●ster, and broke his neck, and his son hath been a very active man against the Parliament, ever since he hath begged his Wardship, which put him to much travel and pains, for which he almost spurred the horse to death that had broke his Father's neck; for he had vowed before he came off his back to get his Wardship. This intelligence caused Sir William to advance towards the Devizes that night, having also advertisement, that the Enemy's works about the Town were very slight, and when his Army were on their march about a mile from Almsbury, he drew them up into a Body, and four out of every Troop, to go on the Forlorn Hope.  
On Tuesday morning very early, our Forlorn Hope gave the Enemy an Alarm (the whole Army marching all night) upon which all Colonel Longs Regiment, which were quartered in and near the Devizes, drew into a Body, and news being brought thereof to Sir William, he made some stay, and at the first seemed rather to prepare for defence, then to give an assault, and divides his Horse into three Brigades, the first commanded by himself, quartered near Po●●rn, Woodington, and the Devizes, the next Brigade was commanded by Lieutenant General Cromwell, and the third by Sir Hadzer Waller, a kinsman of Sir Williams, which Brigade joined together, and wheeled about, and fetched a large compass, that they might not be discovered by the Enemy, and fell in between them and the Bath.  
On Wednesday morning, Sir William Waller drew up his Forces to fall upon the Enemy, and they having discovered that Sir William had a purpose to give them a visit, Colonel Long, with the Horse left the Devizes, and retreated towards Bath, not having notice of General Cromwel's readiness on that side to receive them, and Sir Charles Lloyd the Governor of the Devizes, with most of the Foot slighted their Works, and retreated into the Castle, thinking that they were not able to defend the Town: Sir William hearing that Colonel Long was marching away, he pursued him very close in the Rear, and when the Enemy were a little past Milchin thinking by the swiftness of their March to make their escape away, Colonel Cromwell appeared in the Van, betwixt him and Bradford, which he having notice of, Colonel Long would have returned back again, but could make no way of escape, the passes being narrow, and the Country so fortified with quickset hedges, that he was as it were in a pound.  
We took from the Enemy the 400 Horse, and 300 Prisoners: we took Colonel Long himself the King's high Sheriff, their Commander in chief, Captain Web, and 7 Captains more, the Undersheriff, 7 Cornets, with many other Officers. We took also 340 Arms; and of this whole Regiment, which was the best (as we understand) the King hath, there escaped but 30. we lost but two men on our side, and but 4 of the Enemy were killed.  
Colonel Ludlow is now (thanks be to God) sole high Sheriff of this County: his competitor (being now taken prisoner) is in custodia Mariscallorum, with the greatest part of his Commanders and Officers, and his whole Regiment utterly extirpated. Colonel Ludlow's approach hither is now most earnestly desired to join with us, in regard this County, in which we hope there will be found but little opposition, though we have been lately heavy laden with infinite numbers of barbarous villains. To God be the praise, who hath so graciously looked upon our sufferings. The Garrison of Long ford hearing o● so many losses to the King's Army, in several places, one upon the neck of another, are in great distraction, and almost hopeless of subsisting, having not above sixteen Horse, and they are very poor judes, to fetch in provisions, of which it is conceived, they begin to be straitened: and for their men, they are most of them forced, of which (we hope) there will shortly be given a very good account.  
We hear Colonel Goring doth still retreat before us: it is thought he intends to join with Colonel Barkley the Governor of Excester; and Sir William Waller is marching towards Colonel Holborn at Taunton, and intends to draw out what strength he can out of Sommersetshire to join with him, and so to lose no time to pursue after. So with my due respects and humble service, I rest.  
Your faithful and affectionate Servant. Southampton March 18. 1644.  
Here followeth a Copy of Sir William waller's own Letter.  
Sir,  
Colonel Cook and Captain Butler have written at large unto you, and therefore I shall only confirm it, that with God's gracious assistance we have routed the best Regiment the King had in the West; of 400 Horse, there escaped not 30. the Colonel, Sir James Long, eight Captains, and 7 Cornets were taken, and most of the other Officers, with about 300 prisoners. This fell out in Wiltshire, between Troughbridge and Stepstone. We are now marching towards honest Holborn, with whom (by the grace of God) we will join, or stick half way.  
William Waller. March 18. 1644.  


A List of what was taken.  
Col. Sir James Long, the high Sheriff.  
The Under-sheriff.  
8 Captains.  
7 Cornets.  
400 Horse.  
340 Arms.  
300 Prisoners.  
Goring pursued by W. Waller    
About the 20 instant, Letters from Abbington informed us, that the brave Garrison there seemed to be in a perpetual motion against the nest of Oxonian humming Hornets; and that, as on other days, 
The activity of the brave Garrison of Abbington under valiant Major General Brown.  so on the 14 of this instant March, valiant and vigilant Major General Brown drew forth a party of about 300 Horse, toward Chislington-Bridge, part of which were brought to Wheatley-Bridge, and Melton to hinder Oxford Market, and about 10 of the clock, they joined and ma●ched to Hedington, where they took 4 or 5 Carts laden with provisions for Oxford; They of Oxford also fell down another way and took 2 Carts going for Abbington; but in the return of Colonel Brown's party, they were happily met withal, and after a short, but sharp and hot skirmish, they of Abbington had the better, slew 7 or 8 on the place, took between 30 and 40 prisoners, the chief Commander of the party, Cornet Gardener was also taken, and our friends Carts, and all the Market folk, whom they had taken prisoners, rescued; 3 of the prisoners then taken, were Irish, and therefore presently executed according to the Ordinance of Parliament; and thus they returned without the loss of one man. And the House of Commons in Parliament (about this time) taking into consideration the fidelity and valour of this brave Garrison of Abbington, (whose successful actions have, 
The Parliaments justly high respect to Abbington Garrison.  indeed, crowned them with the Laurell-boughes of perpetual fame and honourable memory, under the command of their wise and most valiant Governor, Major General Brown) they Ordered that the Committee of Both Kingdoms should sign a Warrant, presently, for a 1000 pound to be forthwith issued out and disposed of for the good and encouragement of that Garrison of Abbington.  
And on this March the 22 a conference was had between both Houses of Parliament, touching the ratification of the roll of Sir Thomas Fairfax his Officers or Colonels for the New-Modelled-Army at which Conference there was now at last a most happy concurrence of the Peers with the Commons, 
The happy concurrence of the House of Peers with the Commons about the List of Sir Tho. Fairfaxes Commanders of his New Model Army.  in approving the List (a business which had hung in much suspense and had much retarded the setting forth of the Army, and thereby much sadded the hearts of the best affected, and only gladded the hearts of the Malignants) this List, I say, of Sir Thomas his Commanders was now most happily consented unto by the Peers, without any alteration at all, which was so acceptable to the House of Commons, that upon the report thereof to their House, they appointed a Committee to prepare a Message to the Lords to congratulate their happy concurrence, and to assure them of the real affection and endeavours of the House of Commons to support their Lordships in their Honours and Privileges; And this being certainly so (as indeed it was) it did for the present, and will for the future, take off that reproach which the Malignants and incendiaries about the Town gave out; 
A malicious slander of the Malignants happily thwatted to their shame.  That the Commons did endeavour and use means to diminish the privileges of the Peers; Whereat, I say, our pernicious Malignants much rejoiced, and impiously hoped it was so indeed, but were thus most happily frustrated of their wicked expectation therein; Ever magnified be our good God and gracious Father for it.  
And now the List being thus past and perfected, the New-Modelled Army was expedited shortly after into the field, to Gods high honour and our unspeakable comfort, as, in due time and place, shall be abundantly manifested. The said List of Commanders being a thing of so high concernment, I have here therefore thought fit to insert it, for the Readers better content, and for the honourable memory of the Persons and the Thing itself.  

Sir Thomas Fairfax Commander in chief.  
Major General Skippon.  


Officers of the Horse.  
Colonel Middleton  
Colonel Sidney  
Colonel Graves  
Colonel Sheffield  
Colonel Vermudon  
Colonel Whaley  
Colonel Sir M. Levisay  
Colonel Fleetwood  
Colonel Rossiter  
Colonel Sir Robert Pye.    


Officers of the Foot.  
Colonel Crayford  
Colonel Berkley  
Colonel Aldridge  
Colonel Holborn  
Colonel Fortescue  
Colonel Inglesby  
Colonel Montague  
Colonel Pickering  
Colonel Welden  
Colonel Rainsborow.     
And this also is very observable by us, that (for the more happy advance of this New-Army,) it pleased the Lord to put into the hearts of our Parliamentary-Worthies, that among all the other necessary provisions both for the hastening and the happifying also of Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Army into the field, 
Orders taken by the Parliament as well for the spiritual as the Martial Discipline of the Army.  they took special care of the Spiritual Discipline thereof, by sufficient and able Preachers to go along with them, as well as of the Martial Discipline by honest and valiant Commanders, the House of Commons, therefore, Ordered that the Assembly of Divines should nominate and present to Sir Thomas Fairfax, such pious and learned Preachers as they knew every way fit and able for that service. And is not such an Army like to thrive (think you) where piety and probity, as well as courage and magnanimity is so piously and prudently endeavoured?  
About the 24 of this instant, the Lords in Parliament were pleased to bring the ear of the godly education of the King's Children at Whitehall, 
The Parliaments care for the godly education of the 2 young Princes at White-Hall, by the Earl of Nort●umberland  into their thoughts and serious consideration▪ and thereupon to make the most Noble Earl of Northumberland Governor and his virtuous Lady Governess of them, and to Order an Annual allowance for their encouragement therein of 3000 pound. A worthy act, indeed, and may justly bring to our thought● the brave and blessed education given to young King Edward 〈◊〉 6. and to Queen Elizabeth of ever happy memory, the recover●●● (under God) of the Gospel out of Egyptian dark Popery, and who were the glory of our English nation for these many years. And we doubt not (as we pray) but those 2 most noble and honourable personages will make it their study and care to have those 2 young Princes instructed and brought up so virtuously and piously that they may prove 2 glorious and illustrious Stars, not only in the firmameut of these 3 Kingdoms, but even of all Christendom.  
And about the 26 instant, 
Colonel massy gives the Enemy a defeat nee● unto Bristol.  we received Letters out of Gloucestershire, which certified that a party of Colonel Massies horse had routed a party of the Cavaliers which were sent from Bristol by Sir Ralph Hopton toward Prince Maurice, and in the skirmish had taken Colonel Roberts a great Malignant of Herefordshire, besides 7 Officers, and 40 common Soldiers prisoners.  
And much about the latter end of this Month of March, the House of Commons in Parliament took into their consideration some of their well-deserving Soldiers, and their great arrears, and among these, chiefly, that brave, unspotted and ever to be honoured Commander in Arms, Major General Skippon, and thereupon ordered that his Arrears should by audit be given in, 
Fidelity and good service rewarded & encouraged by the Parliament.  and in the mean time, because he had been long without pay, they ordered that 500 pound should be presently paid unto him in part of his Arrears. And about the same time an Order past the House, (worthy to be recorded to their praise and honour) it being full of piety and Christian charity; Viz. That out of the moneys given for Composition by some able Delinquents, there should be a 1000 pound paid to poor men that had lost their horses, Wagons and Carts, the Summer before, in the service of the Parliament, and that 500 pound more should be paid to poor Widows whose husbands had been slain in the service of the State.  
And now, good Reader, stay here a little, and take a short revise and serious advice on this Month's mercies and marvellous passages of divine providence and preservation of this his Parliamentary Burning Bush not Consumed, 
The Burning-Bush not consumed.  although environed with most violent and vehement furious flames of Malignant wrath and rage against it, as hath been most evident in all the particulars forementioned, both, In that most famous defeat given to the proud insulting Enemies Goring and Dives at Weymouth, and Melcomb-Regis; Together with the seasonable seizing on the 2 ships which by providence were put into the possession of the Parliaments friends there. In the seizing upon a whole Troop of Horse being the King's Lifeguard; And the brave defeat given to Prince Maurices' forces at Holt-Bridge. Together with a fine defeat given to Colonel Ogles forces at Winchester. In that brave Victory obtained by Sir William Waller, and General Cromwell, over Colonel Long and his forces at the Devizes. Together with the brave activity of our Abbington Garrison about Oxford. In the most happy harmony and sweet concurrence of the House of Peers in Parliament, with the House of Commons, about the List of Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Colonels and Commanders; and their pious care for the well-ordering of his New-Modelled Army, as well with Spiritual as Martial Discipline. And, finally, In the Parliaments godly care for the royal and religious education of the Kings 2 young children at White-Hall; Colonel Massies defeat given to the Enemy at or near Bristol; And the Parliaments most worthy respect and regard to the fidelity and good service of such as had been active and serviceable to the Commonwealth, to comfort and encourage them therein.  
Upon gracious and grateful sight and serious consideration of all which precious premises, who (me thinks) can forbear, justly and ingenuously to confess and acknowledge with holy David, Thou (O Lord) hast made us rejoice through thy works, 
Psal. 92 4, 5.  and we will triumph in the operations of thy hands. O Lord, how great and gracious are all thy doings towards us, and thy thoughts of Love and goodness exceeding deep? But now to go on.  
ANd here I shall begin this Month of April with a most holy and happy Aprill-shewre, 
April. 1645.  likely, by God's blessing and gracious breathing on it, to prove most frugiferous in the happy production of many fragrant flowers, the ensuing Spring, and succeeding Summer; and to make way for a copious crop of blessings, and happy Harvest to the glory of our everliving, and all-good-giving God, and to the unspeakable comfort of his poor despised Church and Children; and this it was.  
About the 4 of this present April, a conference was held by the Lords with the House of Commons, which was managed by the Lord Say, at which was offered by the House of Peers, to the House of Commons.  
1. That the Commissioners of the Great Seal might be continued.  
2. They desired that a proportionable number of Lords being appointed to join with the Members of Both Houses of Parliament, might be equally employed in the great affairs of the Kingdom. And, as a farther demonstration of the earnest desire their Lordships had of the continuance of a happy union and correspondency of spirits and affections between Both Houses, a Declaration of the Lords in Parliament was read, 
A most singular sign of God's love and good will to this poor Kingdom, even the most happy harmony of Both Houses.  wherein they declared; That they would ever be careful to maintain the privileges of the Commons as their own, and should be ready to concur with them in all things, for the good and safety of the Kingdom, whatsoever some malicious and illaffected persons (endeavouring thereby to divide between them) might report to the contrary; which 〈◊〉 they left with the House of Commons, to remain upon Record, 〈◊〉 testimony of their real intentions to Posterity.  
This passage (together with a former of this kind, on the part of the House of Commons, declaring their sincere resolutions to maintain the privileges of the House of Peers, and which their said Declaration, being first read, was also left with the Lords to be Recorded by them also to all Posterity.) I thought fit to relate, thus exactly, because I considered and took notice of them both, as sovereign healings of former jealousies between Both Houses, and these their happy concurrencies, as a special blessing from Heaven, and as one of the greatest tokens of God's love and favour to this Kingdom, and most conducing to the peace thereof, and to the salving and curing of the bloody oppressive distractions wherewith all things therein have been infested and almost broken in pieces; especially also considering that it has been all along, the great and main plot of the Enemies of the Peace and Parliament of this Kingdom, to breed and feed jealousies in the Houses; Whereas, now, such happy correspondencies will be their greatest discouragements, and by this harmonious concord, the expedition of our Southern Army, now bravely set on foot and gone forth under renowned Sir Thomas Fairfax, was most happily hastened on; the sweet and blessed effects whereof, you will now every day hear of more and more, to the glory of God and comfort of the Kingdom; as in their proper places, I shall now by God's assistance have occasion to make clear unto you.  
About the 6 of this instant April, the House of Commons in Parliament received Letters from renowned, active and loyal General Brown from Abbington, concerning some late exploits performed by the forces under his Command, the substance whereof was as followeth, Viz. That he having had intelligence that some provisions were at Chalgrove, a Townsome 7 miles distant from Abbington, going to Oxford, sent a party of Horse thither, where they took one Beard, 
Divers brave exploits performed by renowned General Brown's force's at Abbington  a Wine-Cooper, who had then brought 6 pieces (or Pipes) of Sack from London, to convey them to Oxford, but both Wine and Cooper were thus prevented from going thither in ha●●e. These forces also being then advertised that some other Carriages were going to Oxford, they pursued them, and within a mile of Oxford overtaking them, took a Wagon laden with Sugar and other good provisions for that Garrison, and so brought both Sack and Sugar safe to Abbington. They also took several packs of 〈◊〉 loath going thither, which, with the horses they sent safe to Abbington. And presently upon this, notice being given of a party of the Enemy's quartering at Thorp, about 3 miles from Farrington, a Major was sent out from Abbington, with a party of Horse, but the greatest part of the Enemy had escaped before this Major's approach; only an Irish Major (being locked up in his Chamber) refusing quarter, was thereupon slain, 5 or 6 others were taken prisoners, and 19 good Horse seized on. The same Letters also certified farther, that one Captain English, a notorious Villain, on the King's side, than a prisoner, taken by the forces of Abbington, and there imprisoned, endeavouring to make an escape through a hole, near unto a Vault, he fell into the said Vault, 
Capt. English choked in a Vault at Abbington.  and was therein choked; so that instead of getting loose he stook faster than ever before. Also upon some intelligence that the forementioned party of Horse, was nearly engaged with the Enemy, the Major General sent about 600 Foot out of Abbington, who marched 8 miles that morning, and conducted the prizes gotten in unto Abbington; and at their return, the most generous and noble Major General gave 12 pence a piece to each of the Foot to encourage them, and the Cana●y Sack and other provisions taken, were disposed of, and distributed to the rest.  
About the 8 instant we were credibly informed by Letters from the Committee at Redding of the brave service performed by that famous and faithful Soldier, 
Renowned Major General Skippon singular good service in reducing his Soldiers to the New-M●delled-Army.  that brave Commander and pious Patriot of his Country, Major General Skippon, in the quiet and peaceable reduction of his Soldiers, there, to serve under the Command of renowned Sir Thomas Fairfax, now the most prous, piudent, and valiant Generalissimo, of the Parliaments New-modelled Army; who, being at Redding, made a most excellent, pious, and pithy hortatory Speech to all his Soldiers, and delivered it with such grave Emphasis, Martial courage, and prudent sweetness, as gave general satisfaction and full content unto them all, insomuch that 5 Regiments of the Renowned End of Essex, late Lord General, his Forces, and 5 Companies of the Lord Rubert's were most ready and willing to serve under Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Command, and not a dissenting Soldier, or Commander, or discontented Country man was discovered among them all, but they all expressed their clear and cheerful approbation and good liking of this the Parliaments thus reducing of the Army, being all reduced into 3 Regiments, and were all drawn in●o 3 several Churches, and there enroled; and divers who had formerly been Officers in the former Army, were, now, very willing to be Listed as Common Soldiers in this new-model, which was now in great forwardness to go forth into the field; Yea, and the late Lord General's Troop of his Lifeguard, freely offered themselves of Sir Thomas his service and Command; most happy presages of much good to follow when Soldiers so joyfully and freely undertake to undergo the yoke of necessary Martial Command and Service. The truth of all which premises is farther and fully confirmed by the foresaid renowned Major Generals own Letter to the Honourable Speaker of the House of Commons, which, for the Readers better satisfaction and content, I have here thought fit, as most worthy to be inserted, which was as followeth.  
To the Honourable William Lenthall Esquire, Speaker of the Honourable House of Commons Assembled in Parliament at Westminster; These present.  
Deservedly honoured Sir,  
YEsterday and this day, by God's continued help and blessing, all His Excellency's Horse are reduced and settled into Colonel Graves, Sir Robert Pies, and Colonel Sheffields' Regiments, except Colonel Dalbeirs and Beurs Regiments, which are commanded to Gloucester. All the Officers that are laid aside, did with all readiness and submissive obedience observe the commands of the inferior Officers, having listed themselves again as private Troopers; So that hitherto (blessed be God) this great, and I hope useful work for the public hath been carried beyond our expectation that have been employed about it. To morrow, if the Lord will, I shall reduce and settle Colonel Weldens, and Colonel Holborns Regiments of Foot, which were with Sir William Waller, and n●w quarter at Ockingham; And I shall further endeavour with all diligence and faithfulness, whatsoever shall advance the public service. Those Regiments of horse which were his Excellencies and Sir William Belfores, do most humbly ●rave (as I do on their behalf) that they may have that which Colonel Graves says was promised to them. I have not else to trouble you with now, but begging pardon for my being so often troublesome to you (the conjunction of things now forcing the same) and humbly crave to be esteemed  
Your most faithful Servant, Ph. Skippon. Beconfield, the 14 of April, 1645. 9 at night.  
Also about the 10 of this instant, we had certain intelligence out of Scotland (for I intent to take in the Martial performances of our loyal and loving brethren the Scots, so far forth as they have near interest and dependence on those of our own Kingdom and State) we had, I say, certain intelligence out of Scotland, that after a former surprisal of near upon 800 horse load of provisions which were going to that desperate rebel Montrosse, the said Montrosse and his Popish or rather Atheistical copartner in blood and villainy, 
A brave victory obtained by Major General Vrrey against the Lord Montrosse in Scotland.  Mac O Donnel, an Irish Cannibal, with their whole body came to Duncall, whether Major General Vrrey, with the forces under his command pursued him; but upon his March Montrosse was fled, as if he intended for Saint johnston's, but afterwards turned toward Aberdene, Major Vrrey still pursuing him, whereupon Montrosse wheeled about (now, indeed) toward St. Johnstons', so that General Vrrey fearing he would enter Dundee, sent to the Town to stand upon their guard against the Enemy, assuring them they should not ●ail of his speedy help, which accordingly they found.  
About the Evening Montrosse fell upon the Town and burned the Suburbs, but was bravely entertained by the honest-hearted Townsmen, who valiantly kept the Market place, where they had some hot bickering with Montrosses forces, where the Townsmen lost not above 10 men, but slew many of the Enemy in the place, during which encounter, General Vrrey came up with his forces, as he promised, and fell upon the Enemy in the Town, slew 400 upon the place, and took near as many prisoners, 4 great barrels of powder (being all they had there) took all their field pieces, their bag and baggage, and dispersed the Enemy, and had at this time, utterly spoilt and ruinated them, had not the darkness of the night hindered his pursuit of them. The Honourable House of Commons taking into consideration this prosperous success which it pleased the Lord to give our brethren in Scotland, which was of much concernment, 
A Solemn day of Thanksgiving appointed & kept in London, etc. for this great victory.  not only for the hoped peace of that Kingdom, but of this also, they therefore Ordered that public Thanksgiving should be made for the same, the (then) next ensuing Lords Day, in the several Parish Churches in London and Westminster, and within the Line of Communication; and a Committee of the Lords and Commons addressed themselves to the Scottish Commissioners, to congratulate them in that happy and seasonable Victory.  
About the 14 instant, among divers other useful Ordinances of Parliament, there was one passed by the House of Commons, for exempting the University of Cambridge from all Military Taxes and other Contributions to the public Service: That nothing contained in any Ordinance or Ordinances of Parliament, 
Cambridge is by the Parliament highly privileged, & Learning like to be highly honoured and advanced.  for, or concerning the imposing, levying, or paying of any assessments, taxes or charges whatsoever, as well already made and charged, as hereafter to be made and charged by any former Ordinances, shall not be extended to charge the said University, or any the Colleges or Halls therein, or any the Rents or Revenues belonging thereunto, nor to charge any Master, Fellow, or Scholar of any the said Colleges, or any Reader, Officer, or Minister of the said University or Colleges, for, or in regard of any Wages, Stipend, or Profit due to them, or any of them, in respect of their places and employments in the said University; any thing in the said Ordinances to the contrary, notwithstanding. Provided, that the Tenants who enjoy Leases from the said University and Colleges, do claim no freedom or exemption, 
Malignant slanderers mouths against the Parliament stopped  or advantage by this said Ordinance. Heer, therefore, that old Prelatical slander of the Malignant Enemies, is already clearly confuted, who maliciously and falsely give out, as if the Parliament were or would be haters, and discountenancers of Learning and parts, whereas they ever a●med at the advancement thereof by a most necessary Reformation and cleansing of the University from its old stale, and stinking lees, and corrupted and corrupting dregs of Popery, Arminianism, superstition, profaneness, and even open atheism, as was too evident, in so many Prelatical, Popish, and Arminian creatures therein, such superstitious, idle-addle-headed Governors, so many formalists, and politicians in Divinity, mere Atheists in conversation, who constantly infected the better wits and ingenious Spirits, inducing and drawing them by their most prevalent pernicious examples to their own ways and wicked practices: But, now the Fountain being purified and cleansed, the streams must needs run abroad more clear into Church and Commonwealth, by God's blessing on the means.  
About the 16 of this instant April, we had sudden and certain intelligence out of Kent that about 3 or 400 madheaded and discontented Malignants, part of the rascality of that County were gotten into a body, and had put themselves into a second open Rebellion, and had taken Sir percival Harts house near Farningham, and had got divers horse and Arms, 
A second rebellion in Ke●t, but soon suppressed by valiant Colonel Blunt.  which might threaten some danger to that flourishing County; but by the speedy provision and care of the Committee and Gentry of that County, the Serpent was crushed in the Egg; for they had instantly ordered and authorized noble Colonel Blunt, (who, indeed merited much honour in this Service) to raise forces in the County for the suppressing of them, who used such industry, wisdom, courage, and fidelity therein, that he had soon raised a body of about 2000 horse and foot in one afternoon, and part of the next morning, and with quick expedition marched after them with 4 field pieces toward Lunnington House, and having found them out, resolutely set upon them, and had soon utterly routed and dispersed them, took 50 of their principal Ringleaders, who were clapped up in safe custody, till they might be proceeded against by martial-law. And thus (praised be the Lord) this spark of rebellion, not being neglected was as timely quenched, as it was soon kindled.  
Much about which said time, we were certainly informed by Letters out of Hampshire, that a party of renowned Colonel Nortons' horse from Southampton being upon a design to fortify Rumsey and so to straiten the Enemy's Garrison at Winchester; which the better to effect, a party of his horse, I say, under the Command of Major Stewart were drawn out to face Winchester, 
A brave ●ef at given to the Enemy at Rumsey, by valiant Colon. No ten forces.  and so to keep the Enemy in play, whilst Rumsey was thus fortifying; which was done accordingly, and after some small skirmishing, Major Stewart retreated with the loss of 4 or 5 of his men, and as many of the Enemies; upon his retreat the Enemy advanced; but now Major Stewart, being seconded by a fresh party from Rumsey, set again upon them, routed, and pursued them, killed Lieutenant Cord and 6 or 7 more on the place, took Captain Heath, Cornet Barnes, and 4 or 5 other Officers, and about 30 horse and their Rider's prisoners, and brought them safe to Rumsey, and afterward sent them to Southampton. In this service, Major Stewart received a shot in the thigh, but not mortal, only a badge of honour unto him, praised be the Lord for it.  
About the 18 instant, we had clear intimation and knowledge of divers of the Lords and Peers of the Kingdom, who having formerly deserted the Parliament, 
Divers of the Lords at Oxford come in unto the Parliament  and shown themselves in open opposition, or, at best, in sly and faithless tergiversation from the Cause of God, maintained by this present Parliament; yet now at the length, the Lord (as we hope) having opened their eyes of understanding to see their error, and persuaded their hearts (as we trust) to cleave to his Truth, in sincerity and cordial loyalty; and therefore now, I say, divers of them were come in unto the Parliament from Oxford, and took their Oath, and the Solemn Covenant to be true and faithful to the service of the Parliament, to the uttermost of their abilities, both with their lives and fortunes.  
First, there came in about the 10 of this instant, 3 Earls, and 3 Lords; 
The Earls & Lords names that are returned from Oxford to the Parliament.  Viz. The Earl of Bedford, the Earl of Clare, and the Earl of Leicester; the Lord Pawlet, the Lord Conway, and the Lord Rich. And since that, 5 more came in, and took the same Oath and Covenant, Viz. the Earl of Westmoreland, the Earl of Tenet, the Earl of Monmouth, and the Lord Savill. The rest we pray and trust, will also in the Lords due time see their foul errors, and seeing, be ashamed, and sin no more in that kind.  
And about the 20 of this instant April, we received certain intelligence by a Letter from a Member of the Committee of Worcester, then residing at Warwick, concerning a great and brave defeat given to Prince Maurice his forces in Worcestershire; which Letter coming to my hands, I have here for the Readers better content and satisfaction inserted, which was as followeth.  
SIR,  
I Sent you (by an express which was carried into Banbury) the relation of a great Victory, 
A brave defeat given to Prince Maurice his forces in Worcestershire.  which God in mercy gave unto us against Prince Maurice his Horse; And of my apprehension of a very happy opportunity for the reducing of that County to the obedience of the Parliament, were some wants of ours supplied. All the Enemy's horse in Worcestershire, particularly Prince Maurice his Regiment, Sir John Knotsfords Regiment, with the County Troop, commanded by Captain Wild; the Reformado Troop, commanded by Captain Pitchard; and the Hartlebury Troop, commanded by Captain Gunter; being all between 5 or 600 Horse, drew up and faced Warwick, upon a hill about a mile distant from the Town, (Warwickshire horse being a day before, drawn away towards Gloucester) the remaining forces here belonging to Warwick, as also those of our Horses remaining in Warwick, were immediately commanded forth; Viz. 20 horse that appertained to Colonel Bridges, 2 Captains of our Committee, viz. Captain Milward with his Troop, and Captain Halford, with so many Horse as could immediately be got ready.  
Also 2 Troops consisting of about 80 Horse, which came before from Newport Pagnell, marching towards Gloucester. So that in all, we drew out a party of about 150 Horse, which Major Hawksworth commanded, and 200 Foot, commanded by Major Bridges.  
It pleased God, that after some hours skirmishing with them, ours, twice charging them through and through with admirable courage, the Enemy giving ground, and retreating, till they came to a Lane and place of advantage, that our Horse charged them again, Captain Pitchard was shot and taken prisoner by our Captain Halford, who expressed much courage, and singled out Major Pilkinton, and after they had each of them discharged their Pistols, fell to it with their swords, Captain Halford struck off his headpiece and periwig with the first blow, and with the next, gave him a wound on his head. Captain Halford seeing Major Hawksworth dangerously engaged amongst the Enemy's Horse, made up to his relief, with his Cornet Parsons, and releived him, only his Cornet was shot through his neck, but the wound not mortal. The issue of all was this; the whole body of the Enemy utterly routed, about 60 prisoners taken; amongst which, the great Philistine Pitchard (Captain of the Reformadoes) being shot in four places, was taken prisoner. Also Captain George Action, Captain Souch Cartwright, Son to Sir Philip Cartwright, late Governor of Jersey, 
Major Pilkinton slain  with other Officers and Gentlemen of quality. Amongst others that were slain, besides Major Pilkinton, who commanded in chief, one of the Bar●sleyes, a Gentleman of a good family in our County, and divers others not yet known.  
We brought off at least 140 Horse taken from the Enemy, and the whole body of them scattered all to pieces, by 8 miles' 〈◊〉.  
This great body of the Enemy being all their Horse appertaining to them in our County, was thus broken by the gallantry of our men.  
In this action, I give not any eminent or particular mark of bravery on any one, all doing so exceeding well. But the valour of Major Hawksworth was so much taken notice of by the Enemy, that they termed him, The Devil in Buff.  
Were we able to follow the blow, and so keep down their now dejected spirits; Our friends here, of whom you have heard much, would doubtless be more bold and appear in our behalf, and of how great consequence that may be, I forbear to express.  
Guy Mouldsworth, Lieutenant Colonel to the Princes own Regiment, was taken, and engaged his honour to be a true prisoner: We understand by the Trumpeter this day, that he intends to come and resign up himself to us. This Captain Pitchard is a pernicious villain, who the day before he was taken, pulled down the house of one Mr. Hunt, a Member of our Committee. I pray you be a petitioner to the Parliament, that he may not be exchanged without us, he being our prisoner; as also that we may be permitted to secure our prisoners in Warwick castle, which hitherto hath not been granted us, which, besides the hazard, hath occasioned great expense, we being necessitated to hire Keepers to look to them.  
I have omitted one thing, which is the wonder of the mercy, that in all this service, which lasted many hours, we lost not one man, only our Cornet Parsons wounded. The enemy had plundered the Country of 200 beasts, and had robbed some Carriers of their Cloth; all which we rescued and restored.  
We have had 2 Trumpeters from Worcester to know what prisoners we have, their Letters ask not after any particulars, but we know they miss many.  
There are hitherto of all the Enemy's Horse, not above 50 returned to Worcester, which dropped in by two or three at a time, and being rid so exceeding hard, it is believed are made unserviceable.  
Your affectionate Servant, N. L.  
About the 22 of this instant April, we received certain intelligence by Letters from about Oxford, both from renowned Lieutenant General Cromwell, from valiant and active Major General Brown, and others of credit and repute in their Armies, of divers memorable victories and brave defeats given to the Enemy, 
Divers brave victories & defeats given to the Enemy about Oxford. Sir Tho Fairfax advanced into the field, & set down before Oxford.  at the (then) siege of Oxford, by ever to be honoured Sir Thomas Fairfax, General of the Parliaments Armies over the whole Kingdom and now thus far advanced into the field, and set down before Oxford, which victories being all exactly set forth in their Letters to the Parliament; and to several friends in London, I shall here for the Readers better content and satisfaction set down the most material things extracted and faithfully collected out of their several Letters; which were as followeth:  
Upon the 23 of this instant April, there were quartered between 2 and 3000 horse about Oxford, to stop the King's Artillery and Carriages from passing out, which were ready in Oxford (with a Convoy) to march (as intelligence was given) toward Rupert. 
An extract out of Letters of Lieutenant Gen. Cromwel's victory at Oxford.  And Lieutenant General Cromwell, having intelligence that they intended to pass through Shotover-Wood, he drew toward Woodstock, and so thereabout toward Islip, to be ready to attend their motion, in case they came that way. At last, he had intelligence that about 100 horse and foot were marching toward him; whereupon some of our men showed themselves in a small party, which drew the Enemy near, and Command was given by Lieutenant General Cromwell, that all our Forces should be in a readiness, and upon their watch all the night, for fear of the Enemy, which was carefully done, the Lieutenant General himself, being in his own person (to encourage them) all the while with them, for, there came intelligence that the Enemy intended to watch an opportunity to take our Forces at an advantage, and so to set suddenly upon them, of which our security they much presumed, but found our men too vigilant for them: 
A brave victory obtained by Leiuten. Gen. Cromwell near Islip by Oxford.  For, ere ours were looked for by the Enemy, Lieutenant General Cromwell fell upon them near Islip (where, proved to be a Brigade of above a 1000 under the command of the Earl of Northampton, and were part of the Queen's Regiment, part of the Lord Wilmots, and part of the Earls own Regiments) and bravely beat them at their own game; fight with them most valiantly (though the best horse the King had) and at the second charge entered their whole body or squadron of the Enemy, and greatly disordered them, following this advantage with so much courage and gallantry, 
The Enemy is totally routed.  that in a short time they totally routed them, following them in hot pursuit above 3 miles, killed and took above 200. enforcing at the least 60 of them to drown themselves, by making too much speed to get over a water. In which fight we also took 400 horse, 3 Colours, whereof one was the Queens, richly embroidered with a Crown in the midst, and 18 Flower de Luce's wrought in gold, with a golden cross on the top, we took also about 20 Officers, and divers arms, wounded many who fled into Oxford, and some into Blechington-House. Whereupon renowned Lieutenant General Cromwell, sent away his prisoners and marched against the said Blechington, 
Blechington-house summoned & surrendered  beset it, and summoned Colonel Windebank to surrender that Garrison unto him, which after some dispute about it (it being a strong Garrison, and now as strongly surrounded) was surrendered to Lieutenant General Cromwell, upon condition for the Soldiers to march away with their lives. The Lieutenant General took there 250 Muskets, 70 Horse, a 100 Pikes and other Arms, 3 barrels of powder with Match and other Ammunition.  
And upon the 26 of this instant April, Major General Brown having notice that Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Horse were so near him, he drew a party out of Abbington to march that way, to be in a readiness, 
Major General Brown's brave defeat given to the Enemy about Oxford.  (if occasion were) who marching toward Longworth, had notice of a party of the Enemy to be about Buckland, so they marched that way, but the Enemy was gone toward Farringdon; But Major General Brownes forces followed them so close, that they overtook them, and fell upon them, took a Captain 3 other Officers, and 10 prisoners, with which they intended presently to have returned toward Abbington, but having intelligence of another party of the Enemies, that were coming from the Devizes, intended (as was supposed) for Oxford, Scouts were sent to find them out, and having discovered them, Major General Brownes forces fell upon them, and presently put them to the rout, took a Colonel, a Sergeant Major, 3 Captains, 3 Leivtenants, and divers other prisoners, besides horse and arms, and carried them all safe to Abbington.  
And the very same day toward Evening, 
Colonel Feins gives the Enemy a brave defeat.  Colonel Feines, with his Regiment, having intelligence of a party of the Enemies that were come near Witney, he drew toward them, and with much gallantry fell upon them, and in the fight and flight of the Enemy, took from them a 120 horse, 3 Colours, 40 prisoners, and 50 Arms.  
About the 28 instant, Lieutenant General Cromwell had intelligence that a party of the Enemy's Foot, (under the Command of Sir Henry Vaughan, formerly a Member of the House of Commons, but, since, one of the Oxford Juncto) were also about Witney, toward Farringdon; wherefore he drew that way, intending to fall upon them the next morning, 
Another brave victory obtained by Lieutenant General Cromwell, at Bampton-Bush, over Sir Henry Vaughan and his forces.  if he could reach them; and sending forth Scouts to discover the motions of Colonel Vaughan, and receiving advertisement that he quartered near Bampton-Bush, he marched on that way, parting his Body into several Squadrons, and with valiant courage marched up close unto them, the Enemy having little courage to fight (so terrible was the very name of Cromwell to them) instantly begged quarter for their lives, which was granted them; and so Lieutenant General Cromwell took their Colonel Sir Henry Vaughan, 
A brave prize taken.  who was their Commander in Chief, 2 Lieutenant Colonels, 1 Sergeant Major, 5 Captains, 8 Leivtenants, 8 Ensigns, 1 Doctor, who was Chaplain to them, whose name was Dunse; 20 Sergeants, and other inferior Officers, 230 prisoners, and about 200 Arms, some powder, match, and Ammunition, with such provisions as they had with them; And the rest of the day was spent in public worship of God, and giving thanks to the Lord (throughout those our Armies, which were within the hearing and knowledge of these great Victories) for the same.  
Finally, about the latter end of this Month of April, we had certain intelligence of the singular good agreement and sweet harmony of affections in renowned Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Army, 
The singular good estate of our Army at Oxford, under the noble General Sir Tho. Fairfax.  and that the Soldiers expressed very much love, affection, and cheerful obedience to their said noble General Sir Thomas, and to one another in all their several relations in the Army, and that many of those that were thought to be discontented men, and had been Officers under the most noble Earl of Essex, had now cheerfully listed themselves under Sir Thomas Fairfax, 
Our Army at this time was 4000 horse & 13000 foot.  as common Soldiers, both Horse and foot. And that the last muster of the Horse and Foot of his whole Army, at that time, was 4000 Horse, and 13000 Foot, and that some Regiments of horse and foot were then advanced toward distressed (yet courageous) Tauntons relief, whereof more in its proper place.  
And about this time, our most prudent and provident State-Promethei of Both Houses of Parliament, 
The business of the Admiralty & Sea-affairs is taken into consideration.  having so well Ordered their Land-affaires, now, also took into their serious consideration the business of the Admiralty and Sea-affaires, how they might be best ordered and managed for the best good and most considerable advantage and improvement every way of the welfare of our republic; The most noble and renowned Earl of Warwick (then, before, Lord Admiral) being called from that public employment by the late Selfe-denying-Ordinance; and they looking upon this business as a matter of no less weighty concernment than the safety, under God, of 3 Kingdoms: Wherefore, at last, they came to this resolution, that the business of the Admiralty should be managed by Commissioners of Both Houses, to continue for 6 months, 
Commissioners for the Admiralty nominated  and so proceeded to nominate them who were to be employed in this great trust; Viz. The Earl of Warwick, for the House of Peers; and Mr. Bence, and Mr. Peregrin● Pelham, of the House of Commons; the prosperous managing of which so weighty trust and employment, by which foresaid Parliamentary Worthies, we shall have occasion to make farther mention in its proper place.  
And now, good Reader, let me here again desire thee with godly and grateful patience, to make a little stay, and to take a short survey and sweet review of all the rich and rare mercies of this Month also; 
The Burning-Bush not consumed.  And therein to see and admire how graciously and gloriously the Lord hath dwelled in his Parliamentary Burning-Bush, and hitherto kept it Vnconsumed, both, In the most sweet and singular harmony and good agreement between Both Houses of Parliament, revived by the House of Peers, for the faster binding of the mutual affections of Both Houses together; And the good services of Major General Brown's forces about Abbington. In the singular good service also of prudent and pious Major General Skippon, in so fully and fairly reducing the Officers and Soldiers of the former old Army, to serve under Sir Thomas Fairfax, in his New-Modelled-Armie, a business of high concernment, as things then stood. In the brave victory which the Lord gave to our loving and loyal Brethren of Scotland, by Major General Very against Montrosse; And the honourable encouragement of Literature in the University of Cambridge, by our pious and prudent Parliament. In the seasonable and successful appeasing of that Second Rebellion in Kent; And the brave defeat given to the Enemy by valiant Colonel Norton, at Rumsey. In the happy reduction of divers both Earls and Lords from Oxford to the Parliaments party: Together with that brave defeat given to Prince Mau●ices forces in Worcestershire. And lastly, In those famous defeats and brave Victories obtained by renowned Major General Brown, and Lieutenant General Cromwell, against the Enemy's forces about Oxford; The singular good estate and happy harmony of Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Army, now, in the field and advanced to Oxford; And the provident and prudent settling of the Sea-affaires, as well as Land-affaires, in managing the Admiralty of the Seas, by most wise and loyal Commissioners, All which rare mercies and prudent passages of State, seriously considered, and (as they ought) most gratefully recogitated, has not England, sinful England most just cause, still, to expostulate with itself, and cordially to confess with holy David, 
Psal 30 11, 12.  Thou, O Lord, hast turned, for us, our mourning into dancing; Thou hast put off our sackcloth, and girded us with gladness, for this very end, that our glory (even our hearts, tongues, and lives) may still sing praises to thee our God. Therefore, O Lord, our God, to thee alone we will give thanks and praises for ever and ever. And now to proceed.  

May. 1645.  ANd here now I shall begin this Month of May's memorable mercies with that most remarkable deliverance from imminent danger, which the Lord most graciously wrought for that famous, faithful, and ever to be honoured gallant Commander, Colonel massy, which was certified by his own Letter to London, May the 4. whereof, because our foul-mouthed Malignants had with full-mouthed false boasts and brags vapoured so much, and vaunted of a mighty defeat given by the Enemy, to that famous and fortunate Commander. I therefore have here thought fit to give the Reader (for his farther satisfaction and fuller content) a sight of the true Copy of the said Letter, which was as followeth.  
Sir,  
ON the 21 of this instant April, 
The Copy of Colon. Massies own Letter setting forth his great danger & as great deliverance.  Prince Rupert, marching all that night, came the next morning, April 22 from Ledbury, where, I then, was, but the Enemy intercepting 8 of my Scouts, we had no intelligence, till they were near at hand upon us. The Enemies advanced and charged into the Town upon us, and myself, with divers Gentlemen, Viz. Major Harlow, Lieutenant Colonel Kerle, Major Bacchus, Captain Gifford, Captain More, and Captain Baily, with some others, and some common Soldiers, with the assistance of 200 Musketeers, out of the County Forces, received them, and so soon as we received the Alarm, we drew out upon them, and marching close up to them, fell on them, beat them to a retreat, and made it good against them, so long till my foot might retreat a secure way to Gloucester. After the foot we marched off, and out of the Town we had two or three hot charges upon them, where we slew near forty of the Enemy's men, and many of them that were killed at this charge being Officers of quality and esteem. On our part we had very few killed, not above 6 or 7. but I was enforced myself still to charge in the head of all my Troops, to encourage the Warwick and Northampton horse, I and my Officers bearing the heat of the day.  
At length, intending to retreat to our place of advantage (some horse, of those sent to me not standing to it, as they should have done) the Enemy got in amongst our foot, but we redeemed that again, and marched off into the field.  
The Enemy have sent us a List of the Prisoners which they took from us: the number by their own List is 110 prisoners, but above 80 of them were none of my men, only such Country people as they swept away with them in their retreat, that did never bear Arms, only they carried them away to cause them by money, or making friends for exchange, to redeem themselves: my Major, Sergeant-Major Bacchus is desperately wounded in the head, and was carried away prisoner by the Enemy to Hereford. Major Harlow had a sleight wound in the head, and another in the arm, but came bravely off; Captain Baily, and Captain Foster, with some other common men of ours are taken prisoners by them. I have sent for their freedom by exchange of some of those prisoners I took from them, many of them being men of quality, and ●now to redeem them all, if they were thrice as many  
Prince Rupert sent me word by my Trumpeter that I sent, that in the fight he sought me out, but knew me not till after, no more than I knew him. But it seems we charged each other, and he shot my horse under me, and I did as much for him. At that charge many Commanders of theirs fell. Prince Rupert is (I hear) very much enraged to undertake so great and toilsome a march, and so much to miss his end. I had by God's blessing my intendment, and stopped his present march Northward, to God be the glory. Prince rupert's Army by the report of the Country, is noised about to be 6 or 7000 horse and foot: who are now upon their march again towards Ludlow, and so, as I hear, intent for Salo● if they be not prevented again, which must be by a more considerable strength than I have.  
The forces that were with me, were in all about 500 foot, and 350 horse, nor were these all with me at Lydbury, for my Guards were not come. The Enemy braglittle of their getting, but lament much; the names of the Commanders and Officers that were slain by us, I shall send you by the next.  
Your humble Servant Edward massy. April 25. 1645.  
Post script. My last Letter told you that Lydney House was fired and Sir John Winter ran away by the light of the flames, and for haste overran two of his great Guns, one Demi-Culverin, one Saker, and 3 brases of Iron murderers, which he left behind at Lydney, to do me a courtesy.  
Sir John fired all the way he went, till our forces drove them to a full flight over the Bridge.  
The consideration of this gallant service of Colonel Massies, and all his former successes rendered him most honourable in the thoughts of his endeared friends, the Honourable House of Commons, who presently after the reading thereof, fell into consultation how to reward him in some measure to his great deservings, and thereupon it was Ordered that an Ordinance of Parliament should be brought in for the settling 1000 pound per annu●● on Colonel massy, during his life.  
And likewise Ordered, that he should have 200 pound bestowed upon him, for his extraordinary valour and gallantry in this fight, and because these moneys might be speedily issued to him, it was Ordered that the Committee for the King's Revenue should make payment forthwith of this sum. And a Letter of thanks was ordered likewise to be sent to Colonel massy, desiring him to go on in such honourable designs, and that he should never want the encouragement of the Houses of Parliament.  
About the 8 of this instant May, we also received certain intelligence by Letters out of Warwickshire, 
The good success & valiant services of the the Parliaments forces at Warwick, under Major Purefoy.  of the good success of the Parliaments forces in those parts under the Command of valiant Major Purefoy, testified also by his own Letter to the Committee of Parliament at Coventry, and by them to London, the substance of which Letter was, as followeth.  
Noble Gentlemen,  
I Cannot but give you notice of some skirmishes lately performed by my Troop. As first, that my said Troop scouting abroad to discover the Enemy's actions, we encountered a party of them, skirmished with them, and in the fight took Colonel Francis Wortley, Son and hair to Sir Francis Wortley, that prime and pernicious Royalist. Since that I marched out again with my Troop and faced Banbury within twice Musket shot for above an hour's space, and drew out a forlorn hope, and sent, then into Nelthrop where they met with a party of the Enemy's foot, pursued them to the very Turn-pike, killed one of them, and brought off 6 prisoners, without any loss to ourselves.  
Immediately after I sent out a party of 30 good Horse, who bravely fell into the Rear of the King's Army, within a mile of Stow, and after a stout assault upon them, ours took prisoners Prince rupert's Gun-Smith, 4 Reformadoes of his Lifeguard, Prince Mourice his Chirurgeon, 
A brave prize taken.  his chief Cook, his Farrier, with some other common Troopers, 12 good horses, 7 case of pistol●, 12 swords; and all this taken without any loss at all on our part, praised be the Lord for it; and and 100 pieces of gold was taken ●one of their pockets. Since this also I sent out another party to ●udgell them up in their Rear, and my said party marched strait to Cambden, and found the Garrison set on fire, but the party entered the Town, and found 200 foot in the streets, and about an 100 horse in the stables there, which unexpected sight increased my men's courage and resolution, and they seeing themselves engaged, charged quite through them all, and through the whole Town, where they discovering the King's forces within half a ●●ile of the Town, at their rendevour, charged therefore through ●hem again, killed 14 upon the ground, besides many more wounded, put them all to run, and quit the Town, and my men came off without any loss, and brought 3 good horses with them.  
And about the 12 of this instant we received certain ●ntelligence by Letters out of the West, of the long expected, and much longed for assurance of the relief of the distressed and much straitened Town of Taunton, 
The happy relief of the precious Town of Taunton, by renowned Sir Tho Fairfaxes forces under the command of Col. Welden, & Col. Graves.  by Colonel Welden, and Colonel Graves and their valiant forces designed by renowned Sir Thomas Fairfax for that purpose. In which Town there were very many precious souls, and most faithful Servants of the Lord, who were all with admirable Christian courage resolved, together with their brave and most undaunted Governor, Colonel Blake, to hold out to the uttermost of their dearest hearts blood, rather than to trust to the present perfidious Articles, and thereby the future intolerable tyranny, and baseness of a most disloyal, bloody, and barbarous Enemy. The manner of the relief whereof, being succinctly certified by valiant Colonel Weldens own Letter to Sir Thomas Fairfax, I have here thought fit, for my Readers better content and satisfaction to insert, only here and there I have made bold to interlace a word or two very material and pertinent to the present business; which was as followeth.  
To the Right honourable Sir Thomas Fairfax, Commander in chief of the Army, raised for the defence of the King and Parliament.  
Right Honourable,  
ACcording to your Command, I shall now give an account of the good success wherewith God hath graciously blessed this party hitherto. After a long and weary march, wherein we lost no time (and wherein was such wise and Christianlike Discipline, 
The brave Discipline of our Army in the West.  exercised all along as was admired by the Country people, Proclamation having been made, That it should be death for any man to plunder any thing from any person) we thus at length came, upon the Lord's day, May 11, before Taunton, and at our near approach to it, we shot off 3 or 4 pieces of Ordnance, to give notice to the Town that we were come to their relief, 
our relief come to Taunton.  at the hearing and hope whereof, valiant and vigilant Colonel Blake, from a high place, by a prospective-glass discovered our Brigade, and thereby greatly encouraged his Soldiers, and the honest Townsmen, who had had fierce assaults the Friday and Saturday before; And Hopton had sent a sharp Summons to the Town, 
Hopton 〈◊〉 to Taunts to surrender.  Threatening them, if they would not surrender it, he would take it by force, and put them all to the sword, except 7 persons only, that were in the Town. To which the Governor stoutly returned a negative answer, as brave as Hoptons' was cruel, 
Colonel Blakes reply.  saying, He would not deliver the Town, but would keep it to the last man; As for those 7 m●n whom he promised to spare, he desired that Hopton would send their names, and he would send him their bodies presently. But to come more fully to the work itself.  
Being now before the Town, I sent out 10 of my men, who fell upon an 100 of theirs, and killed and took some of them who could not believe or be persuaded, but that we were the Lord goring forces, and we were within 4 miles of the Town before they would believe we were come against them; and then about 4 of the clock in the afternoon, they being fully convinced who we were, they raised the siege, and confusedly ran away by night in great disorder, 
The siege raised & the Enemies fled.  some toward Bridgewater, and some toward Exeter, blocking up the way with trees and other cumbersome matter, whereby our forces could not pursue them. And truly God's goodness and special providence appeared mightily to this poor Town at this time, in that we should come to their relief in the very nick of time only, 
The seasonableness of Taunton ●●leif at this time.  and pinch of their utmost straits coming on them, all their Ammunition being now quite spent, very much of the Town being burnt, even at least 200 houses by the rage of the Enemy; and yet the Town extraordinarily defended all this while witly impregnable courage, yea, notwithstanding that the Enemy many times entered by storm, at breaches they had made, but were still most magnanimously beaten out again, with the loss of at least a 1000 slain before the Town in this siege, 
The Enemy's loss before Taunton.  and about a 1000 Arms left behind them for haste, and divers barrels of powder, with other Ammunition and provision, and the Enemy taking along with them 12 or 14 Cart loads of their dead men, besides many wounded.  
We found about 200 wounded men of ours in the Town, and not above an 100 slain in all this siege, praised be the Lord for it. Since I came here, in 6 week's time, I saw a wonderful change, scarce a man to be seen in a whole Village, so barbarously had the Enemy unpeopled the Country. I shall in all humility acquaint you with what I hear. My Regiment is designed for the West, I humbly entreat, if it be possible, I may wait on your honour, in your Army, which if your Excellency shall please to grant, it will much oblige,  
Your most humble Servant Ralph Welden. Palmister, May 11. 1645.  
After the reading of this Letter in the House of Commons, they began to consider of this great mercy, and therefore Ordered in the first place, That there should be a public Thanksgiving in all the Churches and Chapels in London, and Lines of Communication on the next Lord's day for the relieving of this distressed Town, that so God may have the honour due unto him for it. In the next place the House Ordered that a Letter should be writ to Sir Thomas Fairfax, giving him the Thanks of the House for his great care and faithful service in omitting of no time for the relief of Taunton, and that Sir Thomas Fairfax should be desired to take particular notice of this gallant service of Colonel Welden.  
A Letter was likewise Ordered to be sent from the House to the Town of Taunton, and to the Governor and Soldiers therein, to give them the hearty Thanks of the Parliament for this extraordinary gallant service in maintaining the Town against the Enemy so long; But the special regard that the Parliament had of this Garrison, rested not there, for, An Order was made likewise by the House, for the bestowing of 2000 pound upon the Soldiers of that Garrison, for their valour and courage in this service. And as an earnest of a further reward to the undaunted and ever honoured Governor Colonel Blake, It was likewise Ordered that 500 pound should be paid to him forthwith for his own use.  
The House likewise taking into consideration that by reason of the late tedious and unwearyed marches of Sir Thomas Fairfaxes foot, they had worn out their shoes, and were in great need of supply, it was further Ordered, That it should be referred to the Committee for the Army to provide, and forthwith send down shoes for Sir Thomas Fairfaxes foot.  
The House of Commons further made an Order of reference to the Committee of Both Kingdoms, to take care that no advantage be lost by the relief of Taunton, but to use their endeavour to improve it to the best advantage of the West; and the whole Kingdom, and we have great cause to hope that care will be taken thereof accordingly.  
About the 15 of this instant May, our most provident Parliamentary Statists, for the more prudent regulating of the General Sir Thomas Fairfaxes New-Modelled Army, Ordered certain very excellent Orders to be observed by all Officers and Soldiers, from the Commissioners of the Army, to the meanest Soldier; both to take care of false Musters, 
Excellent Orders appointed by the Parliament, for the well-regulating of Sir Thomas Fairfaxes new Army.  of plundering, of buying Horses for the State, taken by the Soldiers, that they should be marked by the Mark-Master of the Army, etc. To forbid any Officers to quarter in any house, but by Ticket from the Quartermaster, and to pay ready money for man's meat and horse meat, according to the rates set down, and in case any money should be wanting to any man, he must receive a Ticket for it, etc. That Teams or any horses in Plough or Cart, are not to be taken, except in case of necessity, and then also by Warrant from the Commander in Chief.  
Divers other good Orders were then also ordained and appointed, which, are like, by God's mercy, to produce good effects, and a happy conclusion of this present unhappy War, especially since we know it is God's way, 
The hopeful effects of a well regulated army.  when we manage our affairs without violence and wrong; and we see, the Country, us the Army passes along, is extraordinarily taken with love and affection toward them, at the sight of their fair and honest demeanour.  
And here I cannot omit to make mention of another singular mercy of God unto us in our Armies, Viz. The most excellent love and good agreement of Major General Cromwell, and of Major General Brown (though both o● brave and high Spirits) all the time of their being together at and about Oxford; 
Major General Cromwell, and Major General Brown, compared to David & Jonathan.  and elsewhere, in all Orders and Commands, even beyond compare; yea, even striving who should prefer the Service, and honour of other more than of himself, as if david's and Jonathans' 2 souls were transmigrated, and mutually united in one body. O, if such sweetness and oneness of hearts and affections had been found among our Commanders formerly, we had, certainly, now been in a far better condition, than as yet we are like to be in.  
About the 20 of this instant, our most noble pious and grateful Parliamentary Worthies took into their serious thoughts, the payment of the arrears of the most noble late Lord General, 
The Parliaments most singular gratitude for the good services done to the kingdom by the Right honourable the Earl of Essex & others.  the Earl of Essex, whose faithful and noble services for the State, will make his name most honourable to posterity, and Ordered the payment thereof partly out of the King's Revenues, and partly out of Haberdasher's Hall in London; And as a farther pledge of the Kingdom's love and gratitude to the said most noble Earl; and as a requital of his great losses sustained by the Enemy, for his constant and loyal adherence to the Parliament, and the Kingdom's just Cause, an Ordinance of Parliament was passed by the House of Commons, for the settling of 10000 pound per annum upon the said noble Earl, out of the sale of Papists and Delinquents Estates.  
The House also took into consideration the good service of the party that lately releived Taunton, 
The Soldiers that releived Taunton gratefully remembered by the Parliament.  under the Command of Colonel Welden, and Colonel Graves, and agreed upon a certain pay for them, during their service in the West, and Ordered that 3000 pound should be charged Monthly upon the Excise for 4 Months, for the payment of those Forces. The House likewise considered the most gallant service and high deserts of that noble and brave Commander Sir John Meldrum (slain not long afterward, to our great loss and sorrow, at the siege of Scarborough-Castle) and in particular, 
Renowned Sir John Meld●u●s gallant service required.  his last brave Service in winning the Town, Haven, and shipping of Scarborough, as also the brave assault he last made upon the said Castle of Scarborough, when he received his most unhappy deaths-wound; They Ordered that a Letter of Thanks should be wrote unto him, and that 500 li. should be added to the 1000 pound formerly given him by both Houses of Parliament, to be bestowed upon him as an earnest of their affections to him; and they then also took order for moneys to pay his well-deserving Soldiers as had been desired. And they having formerly bestowed 200 pound per annum, 
Mr. Owen Occo●elly taken into farther consideration for his loyal discovery of the Irish plot.  upon Owen Occonelly for his good Service, in discovering the plot in Ireland, who not receiving the same according to the said Order, the House of Commons therefore Ordered the due and constant payment of the said 200 pound per annum, out of the old customs of the Kingdom; Thus, Honos alit arts; & virtus compensata crescit.  
And about the 23 instant, we had Letters out of Staffordshire, which certified, that when the King's forces advanced for the relief of Chester, (than most hopefully besieged by ever to be honoured Sir William Brereton) by Stafford and Shropshire; 
The brave services of valiant Captain Stone, Governor of Sta●●●d castle against the Enemy.  Captain Stone, the valiant and active Governor of Stafford for the Parliament, gave the Enemy several successful visits, in their Rear, at they passed along, and did good execution upon them therein. And, first, how he sent out a party of his Horse, who fell upon a party of the Enemies, quartered at W●lverhampton, killed 16 on the place, took 26 Horse, and most of their Riders, and returned without any loss, the Kings own quarters being then not above 2 miles off it. That presently after this, he sent out another party, even the next day, who fell upon the Enemy, quartered in the field near Newport in Shr●pshire, brought away 60 horse, killed a Captain, and about 20 others in the place; And the next day following this, that he sent out another paity that fell upon their quarters, at Pancridge, killed 3. took 4 prisoners, and 7 horses.  
About the 28 of this instant May, being that Month's day of a public Fast or humiliation, and Reverend Mr. Henderson one of the Scottish Commissioners, and reverend Mr. Whitaker, Preaching before the House of Peers, 
A blessed return of Prayer.  that day, in the Abbey at Westminster; and before the House of Commons Reverend Mr. caryl, and Mr. Ford: as we were, that day, labouring in prayers and other acts of humiliation, to draw near to our God, we found the Lord in mercy, drawing near to us; for, the Fast day being ended, there came Letters from renowned Colonel massy, which gave us the happy intelligence of the taking of the strong Garrison of Evesham, 
Evesham taken by renowned Colon. massy.  the manner whereof was, briefly, thus: Colonel massy with about 800 horse, and 600 foot, having lain before Evesham, a day or 2 stormed the Town, and took it in an hours storming. In which service we received less loss than could have been expected in such a hot piece of service, as, for the time, it proved; not above 4 or 5 of our Soldiers slain, and 2 Officers besides, and about 30 common Soldiers wounded. We slew of the Enemies, 10 or 11. took divers Officers and common Soldiers, 
The prisoners & prizes taken  to the number of about 548. and near upon an 120 good horses; a List of the prime prisoners, was as followeth. Colonel Robert Leg, Governor of the Town, Colonel Foster, Lieutenant Colonel Bellingham, Major Travillian, 13 Captains, 16 Leivtenants, 3 Reformadoes, 20 inferior Officers, together with 20 barrels of Gunpowder, 700 fire-armes, and 2 Tuns of Match. The taking of this brave Garrison was a very considerable piece of service in many respects, and this not the least, namely, that by this means, almost all Worcestershire will be freed, and mightily secured, from Cavalierian Contributions, which, before, were frequently gathered for the King.  
And about the 30 of this instant, we were credibly informed by Letters out of Hampshire, that a party of horse and foot belonging to Colonel Norton, marched forth upon a design on Lan●ford-House. The horse were commanded by Captain Betsworth, Captain Smibark, and Captain Gerson; The foot were under the command of young Murford; 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy by Col. Norton at Langford house in Hampshire.  with part of these forces they placed an ambuscado near the foresaid House, undiscovered to the Enemy, and Colonel Griffith, seeing some of our forces facing the House, sallied forth to encounter them, whereupon ours retreated to their ambuscado, the Enemy hotly pursued them, but were now as fiercely as unexpectedly assaulted and charged by ours on every side, who took them all prisoners, finding no way to escape. There were surprised, Colonel Griffith, the Governor of Langford House, his Captain, Lieutenant, a Cornet, 8 other Officers, 64 prisoners besides of common Soldiers, and all their Arms, and 10 of them slain upon the place.  
And here, good Reader, let me again desire thee to make another very short stay for a most just and deserved grateful Comtemplation on all the fair and famous mercies of this Month also; and therein to see and admire the continued Miraculous wonder of our Parliamentary Burning-Bush still Vnconsumed, 
The Burning-Bush not consumed.  notwithstanding the many singeing, yea, scorching assaults and hot attempts, constantly and continually flashing against it, both, In the great danger and admirable deliverance of that ever to be honoured Commander Colonel massy, from Prince rupert's plot or design to have suddenly surprised him. In the famous defeat given to the Enemy by Major Puref●yes forces in Warwick●shire. In the as singularly seasonable, as comfortable relief of the good Town of Taunton, and the setting at liberty of so many precious Souls as that long siege had kerbed and cooped in from necessary comforts. And the excellent Orders set out by the Parliament, for the well-regulating of Sir Thomas Fairfaxes New-Modelled Army. In the happy harmony of our prime Commanders in the Army; And the Parliaments most noble and renowned gratitude to those that have well deserved of the Kingdom, by their industrious and loyal services. In the brave services of Captain Stone, Governor of Stafford against the enemy; And the happy taking of Eveshams' strong Garrison by renowned Colonel massy, and therein a most notable and evident return of Prayer. And lastly, In that brave defeat given to our Cavalierian adversaries, by valiant and loyal Colonel Norton.  
All which premises of this Month of May, prudently, piously and gratefully considered; O say, good Reader, whether we have not most just cause, continually to praise our everliving, and all-good-giving God, 
Isai. 25. 1.  and with the holy Prophet, to break forth into Soul-exulting, and God-exalting raptures of joy and gratitude, and to confess and say, O Lord, thou art our God, and we will exalt thee, and will everlastingly praise thy name; for thou haste done wonderful things for us: and thy counsels of old (and of later times too) are nothing but faithfulness and truth unto us. But now to proceed.  
ANd here now we will begin the farther contemplation and just admiration of the rich and rare mercies (I had almost said miracles) of this Month of June also, 
June. 1645.  with the cordial and comfortable mention of a most excellent Petition, exhibited about the beginning of this Month, on the 4 or 6 day thereof, to the House of Commons in Parliament, by the right Honourable Lord Major of London, together with the Aldermen and common-council of the said most famous and ever to be renowned City, 
The most famous City of London's most excellent Petition to the Parliament, touching the then present sad condition of the Kingdom.  touching their deep apprehension of divers disastrous sad and sorrowful accidents, lately fall'n out in the Kingdom to the great greit of the best Members thereof; laying down also, in their prudent and provident thoughts, some most probable grounds and causes of all those sad and sorrowful losses which had (notwithstanding all our undeniable precious mercy's forementioned) befallen the Parliamentary Cause; (a true representation, therefore, still, of the Burning-Bush Vnconsumed) and humbly therefore tendering the conceived remedies thereof, and the likely prevention of more, by God's gracious assistance, if seriously and seasonably seen unto. Which Petition, for the excellency thereof, and for the Readers better content and satisfaction, together with the Parliaments most fair and favourable answer thereunto, I have thought fit, here to insert, which was as followeth.  


To the Right honourable the Knights, Citizens, and Burgesses of the Commons House of Parliament, The humble Petition of the Lord Major, Aldermen, and Commons of the City of London, in Common Council Assembled.  
Shows,  
THat the Inhabitants of this City, and parts adjacent, are generally most deeply sensible of these pressing miseries, 
A Copy of the Petition of the Citizens of London to the Parliament.  under which they and the whole Kingdom now groan; And that imminent ruin which is coming upon both, through the relieving of Chester, the unexpressible loss of Leicester, the barbarous cruelty executed there, the danger of the rest of our Garrisons, and well-affected thereabouts, and the increasing and prevailing of the Enemy by Sea and Land, like a mighty Torrent; That (among other causes which have had a deep influence upon this most sad posture of our condition) the said Inhabitants apprehend, that the not completing of Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Army (according to an Ordinance of Parliament in that behalf,) the want of such a Committee in that Army, as may give our Commanders in chief, power and encouragement to improve all present advantages without attending Commands and Directions from remote Counsels. The calling back of Lieutenant General Cromwell, and Major General Brown, when they were pursuing the Enemy; The not advancing of our Brethren of Scotland into these Southern parts; The great decay of Trade, and discouragements of Merchants for want of a constant convey, His Majesty's publishing his sense of the proceedings at the late Treaty, and the Parliament not publishing their sense thereof.  
And their resolutions against free trade by Sea to such Ports as are or shall be in the power of the Enemy, have been the chief; That great numbers of those Inhabitants have lately expressed their earnest desires (by Petition and otherwise, to the representative body of the City, in Common Council Assembled,) That this their deep sense and apprehensions might be forthwith made known to both Houses of Parliament, Their humble suit that the remedies may be speedily considered of, and effectually executed; and their resolutions, according to all former expressions, that they will not think their lives, nor any thing they possess, too dear to hazard for your encouragement and preservation.  
Thereupon the Petitioners (for prevention of further miseries, inconveniencies, and the utter ruin of the Parliament, of this City and Kingdom, make it their humble request to this Honourable House, That care may be taken for the speedy recruiting of Sir Thomas Fairfax his Army, and for his encouragement, That such a Committee may be sent with that Army, as may give our Commanders in chief (of whose faithfulness the Kingdom hath had so large testimony) power and encouragement to improve all present advantages aforesaid: That the said Army (or such part thereof as in your wisdom shall seem meet) may be ordered forthwith to march towards our enemies in the field, as well for the regaining of Leicester (if it be possible before it be made impregnable by fortifications; as also for prevention of the Enemies further surprising of other places of strength, and destroying the rest who have appeared in defence of the Parliament, and for preservation of the Kingdom. That our Brethren of Scotland may be more earnestly pressed to march Southward; That Lieutenant General Cromwell may presently have power to raise and command the Association, until such other course be taken, as may tend to the safety of those Counties, and of this City and Kingdom. That the Navy may be so ordered, as may encourage Merchants, and advance Trade, by having constant convoys. That the proceedings of the late Treaty, may be forthwith published by the Parliament, and their resolution against free Trade, as aforesaid.  
And the Petitioners, as in duty, shall pray, etc.  
Vera Copia. H. Elsing Cler. Parl. D. Com.   

Die Mercurii Junii 4. 1645.  
Resolved, etc.  
THat the Answer to the Petitioners shall be, That the House will take the particulars of the Petition into serious consideration. And do return them Thanks for their good affections. And as to their desire of leave to present the like to the House of Peers, this House leaves it to themselves, and to their own discretion.  
H. Elsing Cler. Parl. D. Com.    
About the 8 of this instant June, we had credible information, by Letters out of Cheshire, that a party of the Enemy's forces about Chester, were sent out by Byron the Governor of Chester, some few miles, 
A brave defeat given to the Enemies near Chester, by valiant Leiv●en. Col, Venables.  a foraging into the Country thereabout, and especially to Broxton hundred, with imperious Warrants to fetch in Contribution-money, where they plundered all they could find, worth carrying with them, and took divers of our men prisoners: Whereof Lieutenant Colonel Venables hearing, he made use of this opportunity, and marched forth with a party from Tarvin, and having got between the Enemies and the Town, he charged them with such courage and resolution, that he totally routed the whole party, and took from them 180 prisoners, whereof about 20 were Captains, Leivtenants, and other Officers in Arms, and some of a degree above Captains; he also took in this service 50 horse, and about 200 Arms, besides divers slain in the conflict, and having thus relieved his captive and plundered friends, and suppressed the Enemies, he returned with honour and triumph to his quarters.  
And about the 10 instant we received certain intelligence of a brave piece of service performed by valiant, active, and loyal Colonel Rossiter, and Colonel Grace, against a party of the Newark●rs, 
A most brave defeat given to the Newarkers, at Hough●● house by valiant and active Colon. Rossit●r.  who marched under the Command of Colonel Will● his own Major, who marched all night, and at 6 of the clock in the morning appeared in a full body, and came before Hougha●-House, which the Enemy having thus now beset, wondered to see not any of our men awake in the whole Garrison to make any resistance; for a while they did forbear to assault the place, fearing ours might have prepared some stratagem within; but some new intelligence administering other counsels, and putting by that fear, they almost at once forced the bridge and entered the House, where they found them all fast asleep, not dreading or dreaming of the approach of any Enemy.  
Being now entered, they used them not (whom they found within) as our King Richard, of old, used a Soldier of his, (whom he killed, because he found him sleeping, and not watching and standing on his guard, as he ought, saying, I leave thee now, but as I found thee.) 
A just reward of a sleeping soldier, according to the rules of Martial Discipline.  but they made them all prisoners to themselves, not to the grave, and so manacling their hands and fettering their feet with cords, they carried them out of the House, man by man, and laid them on the ground, leaving them there a while to take another nap, if they could, on the other side of the Moat, in which mean time they ranged about the House for plunder, and began to nestle themselves in their new-got Garrison. But Colonel Rossiter having received the alarm, by some farther private intelligence, did immediately draw forth with all his Horse, and Colonel Grace advanced with him, with 3 Companies of Foot, and coming before the House, 
●olon. Rossiter bravely recovers Houg●m house.  they found our men in a sad obligation, fast bound both hand and foot, and lying on the ground, without the Moat, under the command of the Enemy's shot. These men they first heartily laughed at, and then instantly unbound them, and about 12 of the clock at noon, Colonel Rossiter drew out 10 men of every Troop, who were commanded by Captain Norwood his own Captain Lieutenant, and the foot being led on by Colonel Grace himself, above the middle in water, who all with admirable courage stormed the House on all sides, and after a sharp assault they forcibly took it. We had many horse shot in this service, 6 men killed, and about 20 wounded. We killed divers of the Enemies, and took prisoners every man that survived in the House; Viz. Major Broughton (Major to Colonel Willis, Governor of Newark) Commander in chief of these our Enemies, and at this present, 
The prisoners & prizes taken at Nougham houses recovery  Governor of this House; Captain William Thorold, a very active man for the King in those parts, Captain John Johnson; Captain Strickland, the chief Standard bearer, 55 other Officers, Gentlemen of Arms, Reformadoes, and Troopers, 60 horses, above an 100 Arms, good store of Match, powder, ball, and other provision. And thus, by God's good providence, we suddenly recovered this strong Garrison again, which had been so suddenly and sleepily lost.  
About the 14 of this instant June, we received the most happy and most welcome news, by Letters out of the West, of that most famous and glorious Victory, which it pleased the Lord of Hosts, our ever good and gracious God, the mighty and merciful keeper of his English Israel, to give unto us at the Town of Naseby in Northamptonshire, which was certified and ascertained unto us from thence both by Letters from his Excellency the most renowned General Sir Thomas Fairfax himself, 
The most famous fight and glorious victory obtained at Naseby in Northamptonshire, over the King's forces, exactly described.  from renowned Lieutenant General Cromwell, and also from Colonel Leighton, and Colonel Herb●rt, 2 of the most worthy Committee for the said Army, and 2 most valiant and victorious Commanders and actors in this most famous fight and most precious Victory; the substance of all which famous fight, I have here endeavoured with all fidelity and clearness of truth and with what convenient brevity I possibly could, to set forth and describe for the Readers full content and satisfaction, which was as followeth.  
About the 12 of June our noble General being come with his forces, near the King's Army, which then were principally in and about Daventry, 
The King's Army at Daventry  we had some fears grounded upon the advantage of ground, with strong intrenchments on his Majesty's part; as also because valiant Lieutenant General Cromwell, was not yet come unto us, we not being willing to engage without him; and yet our near approaching giving the Enemy opportunity of fight us (had they pleased) to their great advantage, 
The King's Army not willing to fight marcheth toward Southa●●.  but by God's providence they did not, for what reason we knew not, and so were delivered of those fears, partly by the royal Armies leaving their advantages and marching toward Southam, and partly also by the arrival of Cromwell, though but with 700 horse, the same morning. Now we being thus reinforced by the coming of Cromwell, and the party he brought, we resolved to follow the Enemy, 
The Royal army advanced to harbour.  who left the way to Warwick, which was woodland, for what reason, likewise, we knew not, and wheeled to Harbour; whereof we having full knowledge, advanced after them, and that night had our quarters in and about Gilsborough, and immediately after they and we moved to Nazeby, 
And from thence to N●s●by.  in which field the fight was fought. We saw the Enemy, about 6 of the clock in the morning (for there was Champion land enough) advanced toward us in a full body, which I assure you was as much joy to ours (who sought this above all) as it was to hear they had left Daventry, which was not little.  
As touching the ordering of our Army for the battle; The General appointed Lieutenant General Cromwell to the right wing of Horse, 
The manner of Marshalling our Army for the battle.  and Colonel Ireton, at that time, made Commissary General of the Horse, to the least wing, Himself and valiant and virtuous Major General Skippon, to the Infantry and body of the Army, and in this posture we marched to meet our resolute Enemy, who, I confess, seemed unto us, to come on with undaunted courage, 
The King's Army advanceth toward us.  as who would not, having a King with them, that was able to honour them at present, and to promise large revenues afterward, to all those that fought valiantly?  
Being come within Canonshot, the Ordnance began to play; but that being found, at Marstone Moor, and other places, but a loss of time, we resolved not to want and lose daylight, as is too usual, but to charge with the first. Whereupon, about 10 or 11 of the clock, 
The fight begins.  the Trumpets began to sound, the Drums to beat, the Horses to neigh and prance about, as smelling the battle; and now, thought both sides, now, an afternoon for a whole Kingdom, nay for 3 whole Kingdoms, now, Caesar or Nothing, was, we may suppose, the voice of their Army. And, The Liberties of England, may well be said to be the voice of our Army; to whom, me thinks their most noble General Sir Thomas Fairfax, said to his Soldiers, as in such a case religious King Hezekiah said to his Army. 
2 Ch●●o●. 32. 7, 8  Be strong and courageous (my brave Commanders and Soldiers) be not afraid nor dismayed for the King's Army, nor for all the multitude of his Horse and Riders that are come together; for (according to our Signall-word) there are more with us (we having God our Friend) than are with them. With them is but an arm of flesh, but with us is the Lord our God, to help us and to fight our battles. As so, indeed, he did, as now you shall immediately hear. The Enemy's word was, Queen Mary. Our word was, God is our strength. And so he was indeed, as you shall see in the sequel. The Enemy had bean stalks in their hats, we generally nothing.  
And now each wing of both sides charged one another with great eagerness and violence, our Dragoones began the battle, flanking the right wing of the Enemy's Horse, as they charged our left wing of Horse the Foot charged not each other, 
Here the fight was very hot & furious on both sides.  till they were within 12 paces one of another, and could not charge above twice, but were at push of pike. The Enemy's foot gave a little back, and so did some few of ours, and in the beginning of the fight, the day was very doubtful, but then the right wing of our Horse (wherein the General was in person) charged in the flank of the blue Regiment of the Enemy's foot, who, indeed stood to it, 
The King's blue Regiment of Foot ruinated and destroyed.  to the last man, abundance of them being slain, and all the rest surrounded, wounded and taken prisoners; These (who were the very hope of their Infantry) being lost, horse and foot gave back.  
But here also the fight continuing with equal might and courage for the space of less than half an hour, they had somewhat shattered our left wing, and made them give back, and were almost masters of our Artillery; 
Our left Wing is some what shattered.  And, here (as we have it from credible relation) a party of the enemies broke through our left wing of Horse, came quite behind our Rear of our Train, the Leader of them being a person somewhat in habit like our General, in a red Montero, as our General had; He came as a friend, and our Commander of the guard of the Train went with his hat in his hand, and asked him how the day went, thinking verily he had been our General; The Cavalier (who we since heard for certain was Rupert) asked him and the rest, if they would have quarter, whereupon, they cried no, gave fire instantly, and most bravely beat him off, making him fly for his life, and his companions.  
But, as I touched before, our right wing had done more upon them, 
The Enemy is beaten by our right Wing.  and besides, our left wing bravely recovered their strength and ground, and, within half an hour, or a very little more, we had quite driven them out of the field, and so broken all their foot, that we verily believe there went not off a hundred in any one party or body. After this first hot shock so received, they rallyed again, 
The King himself rallyed his Horse again.  and put their horse into a posture to charge us, which party we were assured the King himself led up and charged with, but What will he do, when he shall go about to charge against God, and his Country's best friends? For this body was also (as the rest of them) possessed with such a fear, that though the King in that foresaid rallying of this body, 
The King's words to his Soldiers.  cried out unto them, Face about once more, and give one charge more, and recover the day. But here also it most mercifully pleased the Lord, that the fresh forces of valiant and active Colonel Rossiter, most fortunately came in unto us before the battle was quite ended, who being all, I say, fresh men, and unexpectedly falling on, did admirably help to complete the Victory, and to pursue the Enemy with their fresh horse, with great slaughter, even within the sight of Leicester: So, they, by God's great mercy, together with our horse and foot, came on, I say, with such impregnable and invincible courage, that we made them all fly again, and we, after the breech of them, killing, as fast as we could, 
The Enemy is beaten again.  all we found in arms, and here, happy was he that was best mounted to fly fastest, for, the renowned General Sir Thomas Fairfax, and valiant Major General Skippon, fell sorely upon them; and magnanimous Lieutenant General Cromwell, pursued their horse, with a full carreir, about 12 or 13 miles, at least, even within 2 or 3 miles of Leicester, 
The Enemy is pursued 12 or 13 miles, within 3 miles of Leicester. The high and prime praise of this victory given to God in the first place. The Renowned General next, as most worthy praise.  the longest pursuit that ever was since this unhappy Warrebegan.  
Thus by God's infinite mercy we had a great and wonderful victory, yea, as great as ever since the war began, if not greater. Which Victory, as it is in the first and prime place to be most justly attributed to our good God alone, as the chief Cause, and giver of it unto us: So also in the next place to his valiant instruments, and whom God only made so valiant and victorious over their Cavalierian Enemies, and of these in the first place, renowned Sir Thomas Fairfax hath merited exceedingly, showing such courage and resolution, as hath rarely been seen in any, which, truly, did so animate the Soldiers by his undaunted example, as is hardly to be expressed; for, certainly, had you seen him, and how his spirit was raised, it would have made an impression in you, never to be obliterated, God knows it is not here hyperbolized, but a real Truth. 
Courageous Major General Skippon.  And as for Major General Skippon, he also did as magnanimously and valiantly as man could do, and was a great terror to the Enemy, receiving a wound in his side, by a Musket bullet in this fight, but, blessed be God, not mortal, only, an indelible badge of Honour unto him. 
Valiant Lieutenant General Cormwell.  Valiant Lieutenant General Cromwell also did admirable bravely in this fight, he and his right wing of horse having expressed incomparable gallantry in this fight, even to the amazement of their adversaries. Yea, and to speak the truth, all our Officers and Soldiers did as bravely and courageously as could be. Commissary General Ireton did valiantly also behave himself in this fight, 
Commissary General Ireton and Colonel Butler.  and was sorely wounded, but not mortally, and so was Colonel Butler, both of undaunted courage, and did singularly well in this great service. But I would not willingly attribute more to one Commander than to another; 
The Enemy's Foot fought also very stoutly.  for, indeed (as I touched before) they did all as gallantly as ever men on earth could do, and so did the Enemy's foot, which, before the battle we least valued, Rupert and Maurice having at least 2000 horse more than we had, that charged fiercely on us at first, but were so well received by ours (though, at first, our left wing gave back a little) that their hearts were broken at the very first, especially by the thickness of our reserves, and their orderly and timely coming on.  
And thus we having taken 8 pieces of Ordnance in the field, whereof 2 were Demi-Cannons, one whole Culverin, we also possessed all the rest of their Ordnance and their Carriages, bag and baggage, 
Good store of Biscuit and Cheese takes, to refresh our Soldiers at the end of the Fight. Our Soldiers marched to Harbour that night.  abundance of Coaches, and rich plunder (whereof more anon, more particularly) Carts, and Boats, and great store of Biscuit and Cheese (a seasonable refreshment for our honest Soldiers that had marched so hard the day and night before, and had not had a bit of bread to a Regiment, for their refreshment) thus the Foot and all the Train marched that night, to Harbour, (about 4 miles from Naseby) where then the head-quarter lay.  
It was credibly conceived, by the testimony of those that saw it, and purposely viewed Immediately after the fight, that from the battle to Harbour, there were not slain above, about 700. together with those slain in the field running away, but in the pursuit, between harbour and Leicester, 
The slain in the Field of the Enemies.  at least 3 or 400 more were slain, abundance of them sorely wounded, and divers persons of note or quality fell among them; one with a Star and a red-Crosse on his Coat, conceived to have been the Duke of Lenox, but it was not he. 4 Lords came mortally wounded (as was credibly reported to us) to Harbour, 
The Ensigns of the Enemies taken in the field.  but durst not stay there; We took all the Foot Colours in the field, the Kings own Colours with the Lion and Crown, with this Motto, Dieu et Mon Droit. The Queen's Colours, and the Prince's Colours, and the Duke of York's Standard. We got the plunder of the King's Coach, and his precious Cabinet, that famous tell-tale of the Kings and Queens works of darkness, etc. But of all these things more particularly by and by.  
One great encouragement to our Common Soldiers to fall on the more courageously, 
One great encouragement to our Soldiers to fight bravely, was the rich plunder of the Enemies.  was, the rich plunder the Enemy had (their purses and pockets too, being full of money, and the plunder of poor Leicestershire) which God now made a means of their ruin and destruction in this fight, for, indeed our Soldiers got very great plenty of gold and silver out of most of their pockets that were slain. Prince Rupert also, or rather Prince Robber, had brought into the field many Irish women, inhuman Whores, with Skeans or long Irish knives' about them, to cut the throats of our wounded men, and of such prisoners as they pleased, (the wives of the bloody Rebels in Ireland, 
Very many Irish Queans in the field, how they were used.  his Majesties dearly beloved Subjects) to whom our Soldiers would grant no quarter, about a 100 of them were slain on the ground, and most of the rest of the whores, and Camp-sluts, that attended that wicked Army, were marked in their faces or noses with slashes and cuts, and some cut off; just rewards for such wicked strumpets.  
The slain on our part, in this most memorable fight, was not in all full 200. 
The slain on out side in the Fight.  and not one above a Captain. Sir Jacob Ashleyes' Coach was taken, with great store of plunder in it; and himself was very near taking, for we got the cap off his head, and in Sir jacob's Coach, Letters of Nicholas the Courtlier, wherein was, among others, 
A most slanderous and abominable lie of Secretary Nicholas put upon the Parliament.  this expression, in one of them; That the Parliament had given particular direction to the General, to give the King no quarter, but to kill him, if taken; A most abominably false and impudent lie, like unto all the rest of their irreligious practices.  
The Army after this marched toward Leicester, following the pursuit, not willing to give the Enemy any rest, or liberty to rally, our horse especially being close in their Rear, and Colonel Rossiter (who came seasonably to the engagement, 
The Victory pursued by our Horse toward Leicester.  and bravely charged where our Noble General was) following apace in the pursulte of the Enemy, as aforesaid, where, now, for a while, we will leave them.  
And here, now, I shall in its most proper place, for the high honour and glory of our wonderworking God, and the admiration and astonishment of my present Readers, 
A List of what loss the King did sustain in this famous fight. The slain and wounded.  and their succeeding Posterity; give you the most exact List of the slain, prisoners, and prizes taken in this most famous and glorious Victory, which was as followeth. Slain in the fight and slight, about 3000. and between 3 and 400 Whores and Irish Queans. One Lord or eminent personage slain and found dead, with a Star and a red-Crosse upon his coat. 4 Lords mortally wounded, Prince Rupert bruised, and Sir Jacob Ashley hurt on the head, his headpiece beaten off, and himself near taken.  
Prisoners, 
Prisoners.  Colonel Sir William Vaughan; Colonel Sir William Bridges; Col. Sir. Bridge; Col. Sir Richard Page; Colonel Bands; Col. Bunkley; Col. Theoph. Gilbie; Col. Nevil; Lieutenant Colonels 7. Sergeant Majors 12. Captains 55. Leivtenants 55. Ensigns 45. besides of inferior Officers, above 200. 2000 horse with their riders, many Ladies and Gentlewomen; of the King's Officers and Servants, 11 or 12. besides 4 of his footmen, and one of Prince Maurices; In all above 4000 prisoners. Arms, at least 9000. 
Prizes.  6 rich Coaches, and other Coaches besides; The Kings own Coach, and therein that Cabinet of Secret Letters, of the Kings and Queens, since this fight Printed and published to the amazement of the world. rupert's Coach also, and both the Kings and rupert's Sumpters with much wealth and riches, The King's Standard, the Queen's Standard, Prince Charles his Standard, the Duke of York's Standard, and rupert's Standard; 6 Colours of Horse; and 40 Colours of Foot; one whereof represented a pair of horns, with this Motto; Come Cuckold. Which being one of the first Colours that were taken, the word was, on the pursuit, returned to the Enemy with much mirth and scorn, among Soldiers; Taken also, 12 pieces of Ordnance; 40 〈…〉 Gunpowder; 200 Carriages; 12 Carriages of Boats, with their Anchors and Cables; In sum, all their bag and baggage. 〈◊〉 King himself fled toward, and so clean through Leicester. Thus now, in this most famous and renowned Victory did the Lord● indeed, show himself, as Moses sweetly sets him out, Glorious 〈◊〉 holiness, 
〈…〉.  fearful in Praises, and doing wonders. Triumphing gloriously and overthrowing both the horse and his rider. And, truly, so much the more glorious may this Victory appear unto us, and the hand of God most evidently be seen in it, 
〈◊〉 on the Victory.  as to Gideon, against those Enemies of God (though, it is true, the number of men in the Army was not much different, yet, 'tis most true, that the King had full 2000 horse more than we) yet, I say, this Victory will most notably appear to be God's Victory, graciously given to us, if we consider both the time and condition of the kingdom as then it was; And also the very Army itself.  
First, 
●1.  This Victory was bestowed upon us at such a time, when as our spirits were (and that most justly) very low, 
The 〈◊〉 and condition of the Kingdom.  and exceedingly dejected, both by our loss of Leicester, but a little before, and thereby also the Kings relieving of West-Chester, we having at that time a marvellous great possibility of taking it, 
1.  but now were utterly frustrated of it. 
The Kingdom fourfold sad condition at this time.   
Also the great sadness we then were in for the danger of Taunton, at this season, a second time besieged strictly by outrageous Goring and Hopton; 
2.  Besides, the great murmurings at this time, of most men, 
3.  about our brethren of Scotland's not advancing Southward, as was expected and, 
4.  then, greatly desired.  
And Secondly, 
2.  if we consider the Army itself, O, the wonderful base and despicable esteem that was thereof, 
Considering the Army itself  not only in the King's Army, and Malignants, but even among very many seeming friends among us, and those no mean ones too! O how did they disparage, undervalue, and contemn, as it were, this New-Modelled Army, call it, a New Nodelled Army, jeering them, as a company of young Tyroes, 
The new Modelled Army despised and scorned.  or fresh-water-Souldiers; hereby, as much as in them was, to discountenance and dishearten the most noble General himself, Sir Thomas Fairfax, and to weaken the hands, and despond the spirits of his Soldiers; if God himself had not mightily upheld them, and put as it were, an extraordinary spirit and courage into them; most remarkably making good that most excellent passage of the Apostle. 
1 Cor. 1. 27, 28.  That God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise, and the seeming weak thing of the world to confound the things which are mighty: And base things (in the world's esteem) and things which are despised, yea, and things which are not, God hath chosen (as here we see) to bring to nought, things which are.  
And here, me thinks, I cannot pretermit, but most justly make honourable mention of what I have been credibly informed of touching our most noble and renowned General himself; 
An Excellent note touching the General himself, about this fight and Victory.  Viz. That he was observed before this fight to have been exceeding merry and cheerful in his carriage and countenance among his Commanders and Soldiers: But after this victory was obtained, he continually day by day carried himself with very much settleed gravity of countenance, lowliness, and meekness of face and heart, as giving God all the honour, and willing to take none to himself. 
Two rare postures in a victorious General or Commander.  Two rare postures, indeed, of a pious and prudent Cornelius, or Commander, and fit for all Soldiers, especially Saintlike Soldiers to practise and imitate. For, indeed, both He, I mean this our most renowned General, and all of us with him, might most justly (as reverend Mr. Martial, in his excellent Thanksgiving Sermon at Christ-Church, 
Reverend Mr. Martial in his Thanksgiving Sermon at Christ-Church in London.  the Thursday following this famous Victory) say concerning this glorious Victory, as the most noble and renowned late Lord General, nobly said at Keinton-Victory; Never more of God, and less of man. And therefore, as we were most justly bound, our most pious and prudent Parliamentary Worthies, immediately upon their perfect knowledge and understanding of this so glorious a Victory, as you have, thus, fully heard, appointed a day of Solemn Thanksgiving to be celebrated to the high honour and praise of our great and gracious Wonderworking God, a Copy of which their Order, I have here inserted, which was as followeth.  

Die Lunae, Junii 16. 1645.  
ORdered by the Lords and Commons in Parliament, that Thursday next shall be set apart for a day of Public Thanksgiving to Almighty God, in all the Churches and Chapels within the Cities of London and Westminster, and Lines of Communication, and weekly bills of Mortality, For the great and glorious Victory obtained by the Parliaments Army, under the Command of Sir Thomas Fairfax, against the Forces of the King. And Mr. Martial and Mr. Vines be desired to Preach at Christ-Church, before the Parliament. And that the Lord Major, Aldermen, and Common-council do meet the Parliament there. And it is further Ordered, That Friday being the 27 of this instant June, be set apart for a public day of Thanksgiving for this Victory, in all the Churches and Chappells in the several Counties of the Kingdom, under the power of the Parliament.  
H. Elsing, Cler. Parl. D. Com.   
About the 15 of this instant, there came Letters out of Shropshire, which certified of several good services performed by Colonel Mittens forces in those parts; and for better satisfaction, I have here thought fit to insert the Copy of the Letter itself, which was sent to renowned Colonel Mitton himself, which was as followeth.  
SIR,  
I Being desired by Lieutenant Colonel Goldgay, to certify our late proceedings at Oswestree, and the good success wherewith it pleased God to bless your Forces there; 
The good Service of valiant Colonel Mitt●●● Forces in Shropshire.  I am humbly bold thus to trouble you. On Tuesday, the third of this present June, your Troop with a considerable party of your Foot marched unto Clerk, being commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Goldgay, where we took 27 horse from under their walls, being the best horse I have seen together in Wales: We drawing off in order, the Enemy sallied out, came through the wood with firelocks, thinking to redeem their loss; charged our Rearguard of horse, whom Captain Simpkins caused to face about, and fall on them (lying in the manner of an ambuscado) which they did, and soon got through them, and got betwixt them and home, killed 2 of them, took 24. the Governors Lieutenant being one, and his Organist, whose loss hath caused a general Melancholy in the Castle, and if he be not changed, their mirth and devotion (it is to be feared) will perish together.  
On Thursday the 6 instant, we marched in the like posture to Shraden, went close under their works, took from them 24 good horse, which was the greatest part of Dr. Charles Vaughan (than Governor) his Troop; we expected them also to sally out, but the Dr. though he hath forgotten his Preaching, since he turned Cavalier, yet remembered his Grammar-rule, Optimum est alienâ frui insaniâ. For, being warned by the folly and harm of Cherkmen, he was content to sleep within doors in a whole skin, and to suffer us to march away with our prize, without any of their lets or lest disturbance. This we did without the loss or hurt of any one man of ours. We ascribe the praise and memory of the work to that God, who hath hitherto crowned your endeavours with success; and I doubt not, in despite of malice will do so still, under whose banner of love I leave you, and humbly rest yours to Command.  
And now upon the 19 of this instant June, being the next ensuing Thursday, after the happy tidings of the foresaid most famous Victory at Naseby, (according as our most pious and prudent Parliamentary Senators, had formerly Ordered, and as our most renowned General himself Sir Thomas Fairfax had earnestly desired by the Messenger, by whom the relation of the victory was first brought) a day of Solemn Thanksgiving was celebrated, 
A day of solemn Thanksgiving set apart to praise the Lord for the late great Victory at Naseby, which was especially celebrated at Christ-Church in London.  and wholly set apart to give all the glory of that great Victory and mighty mercy to the Lord alone, as it was most due, in all Churches and Chapels within the Cities of London and Westminster, and the Lines of Communication; which was, as on this day, most solemnly performed in a special manner at Christ-Church in London, where reverend and religious Mr. Martial, and Mr. Vines preached that day before the whole Body of the Parliament, both Lords and Commons, whom the Lord Major, the Aldermen and Common Council of London met there, and had invited the said most honourable Lords and Commons to dine with them, that day in their City, at Grocer's hall.  
And, here, I hope it will not be offensive, or tedious, to my Reader, to give him a short sight or intimation of the manner of the gallant entertainment the City gave the Parliament at Grocer's Hall that day, not to mention the Messes of their dainty cheer, which in great plenty was provided answerable to so honourable an Assembly, but only to show you the special guests, and the order of their placing according to their state and Orders; which was thus.  

At the upper end of the Hall sat the Lord Major.  

On the left hand.  
The Prince Elector.  
Earl of Northumberland  
Earl of Kent  
Earl of Essex  
Earl of Manchester  
Lord North  
Earl of Elgar.  
Lord Brighton  
Two of the Scotch Commissioners.   

On the right hand.  
Earl of Pembroke  
Earl of Nottingham  
Earl of Salisbury  
Earl of Denbigh  
Earl of Bullingbrook  
One Scotch Lord  
The Lord Say.   
There were three Tables more in the Hall.  

On the right hand going up, sat  
Mr. Speaker at the upper end entering to the door toward the Parlour.  
Then all the other Members of the House of Commons, in order.  
So for the middle Table, and the like for the left hand Table going up towards the Lord Major's Table.   

In the Parlour.  
All the Assembly of Divines in order.   

In the upper Room over that, sat  
The Recorder of London, at the upper end.  
The Aldermen on the left hand.  
The Common-council and divers Gentlemen of quality on the right.  
After these the Lord Major's Officers that attended, and divers others sat down in the same room where the Aldermen and the rest dined.  
The Trumpets continued sounding all the time of the Feast.    
After Dinner and Thanks given by Mr. Martial, both Houses of Parliament, the Assembly of Divines, the Aldermen of the City, and all the rest being assembled in the Hall, they sang the 46 Psalms and after that departed.  
And, Friday, June the 27 then next ensuing, was ordered by the Parliament to be set apart for a public day of Thanksgiving for this Victory in all the Churches and Chapels in the several Counties of the Kingdom under the power of the Parliament. 
The thanks of the Parliament sent to the noble General & his field officers▪ A jewel of 500 li. to be sent as a present to Sir Tho Fairfax from the Parliament.  The House also ordered that Letters of thanks should be written and expedited to the renowned General Sir Thomas Fairfax, & his Field-Officers, for their extraordinary valour, fidelity and judgement in this famous service against the Enemy; And they likewise ordered, that 2 worthy Members of the House of Commons should bestow, at least 500 pound upon a jewel to be presented to Sir Thomas Fairfax, as an earnest of their love and affection to him: 
The messengers of this victory rewarded.  And as for the Gentleman that brought this happy news to the Parliament, from Sir Thomas, in farther testimony of their great affection to their foresaid renowned General, the Parliament most prudently ordered that an 100 pound should be bestowed upon the first messenger; 40 pound upon the second; and for the other messengers that came from Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Secretary, they also were all well gratified for their pains. The House also, about that time, fell into a particular debate of the gallant, great and faithful service of that heroic and most valiant Commander, Lieutenant General Cromwell, and of the former desires of the Officers of the Horse under the Command of the General Sir Thomas Fairfax, to have him Command them, as their Lieutenant General, and considering the great necessity of continuing him in that employment, notwithstanding the Selfdenying Ordinance; after a long and serious debate of this business, they ordered that Lieutenant General Cromwell, should continue Lieutenant General of the Horse, under the Command of Sir Thomas Fairfax, during the pleasure of Both Houses, and that he should receive pay, as Lieutenant General from the time of the establishment of Sir Thomas Fairfax his Army, and they sent to the Lords for their concurrence, which was assented unto by them.  

Leicester regained, & the news thereof brought to London, on the Thanksgiving day in the morning, the more to sweeten that day's joy.  And upon the foresaid 19 of this instant June, Both the Houses of Parliament, and the prime Body of the City of London, keeping the day of Solemn Thanksgiving, as hath been forementioned; It pleased the Lord (as a farther addition to our former great Cause of Thankfulness, and as an exact completing of our present just joy that day) that that very day in the morning before the Sermons began, the most welcome news of the happy regaining of the Town of Leicester, by ever to be renowned Sir Thomas Fairfax was brought to London; the particulars whereof, I have here thought fit to insert for the Readers better content and clearer satisfaction, as they were related in a Letter from an eminent person there in the Army, which was as followeth.  
Honoured Sir,  
Upon the routing of the King's Army at Naseby, as aforesaid, Sir John Gell gathered together all the forces of Darbishire, Nottinghamshire, and the adjacent parts, 
The manner of the regaining of Leicester.  that possibly he could, and on Monday the 16 instant, they met with ●ome of the King's horse and took 200 of them; and another party met with some of the Newarkers, and fell upon them, routed them, took 60 horse, 42 prisoners, and 80 Arms.  
On the said Monday June the 16. Sir Thomas Fairfax lay before Leicester, and sent in a Summons to the Town, to require the Governor to surrender it to him for the use of the Parliament; and putting it to them to consider how the King was routed, and showing them what use they might make of that Clemency, with divers other very gallant expressions to the summons, to advertise them how much better it was for them to surrender than to force him to take it by storming.  
To this summons the Enemy sent a negative Answer, positively this, that they would not surrender it; whereupon Sir Thomas Fairfax called a Council of War to consult about the storming of it, which was soon concluded on; that they should prepare all things in readiness to round it the next day: which was done with all expedition, not losing any time.  
So they sell presently to raising of Batteries, and doing all things that were necessary for the storming thereof, according as they had appointed, and continued providing every thing that was requisite for the d●ing thereof, to be in a readiness to batter it the next day, and sent into the Country thereabouts for such helps as were necessary for the work, which went on with great speed both night and day; so desirous we are to have a speedy end of the work, that there may be an end of these Wars if possible.  
On Tuesday the 17 of June, we drew down our Ordnance and played with our pieces against the Town, we stormed it, playing with our Ordnance very hot on the Newark side, which we conceived was their greatest strength; And in short time we made a breach in their works, which struck such a terror into the hearts of the Enemy, that the Governor sent to us to desire a Parley, and offered to surrender upon very fair terms; as upon capitulation should be agreed upon.  
To this request (Sir Thomas Fairfax being willing to save the spilling of innocent blood as much as may be) he assented▪ and promised speedily to send in Commissioners for the Treaty, and called a Council of War, and it was agreed that Colonel Pickering, and Colonel Rainsborough should go into Leicester, to treat with the Governor about the surrendering the said Garrison to Sir Thomas Fairfax. And accordingly a safe conduct was desired for them, which being sent they went to Capitulate with the Governor about the surrender thereof.  
In the mean time Sir Thomas Fairfax was not idle, nor did he lose any time; but went on providing and furnishing himself with Pittars, Carts, Hay, Granades, Ladders, and all other things necessary for storming; resolving to fall on at their return, in case that they should not agree, not knowing how things might fall out, during which time there was both great pains and care taken by all in their places for the going on in the said work.  
In the mean time we had intelligence that the King was on Monday the 16 of June at Sheffield; that he came from Ashby de la zonch thither, with about 2000 horse, or more, the day before, viz. Sunday night, and marched that morning (viz. Monday morning) to a Rendezvous, near unto Dudley Castle, wherewith the Litchfield and Dudley horse, and others, that came in to their Rendevouzes, the King had, 
The Kings flying from Leicester.  then, about 3000 horse, as it was conjectured by the Country people which saw them. But to leave him in this his most unhappy flying progress, occasioned by his own unholy miscarriages, and unnatural waged war against God and his best Subjects; and to come to our present business.  
All the rest of that foresaid Monday, June the 16. our Commissioners were in capitulation with the Enemy in Leicester, and the Army went on preparing for a storm, 
Preparation to storm Leicester.  having received no answer all that night, and looking for the return of our Commissioners, the next morning, and so very early resolving to fall on, if they had not agreed with the Enemy.  
But upon Wednesday, June 18 about 2 of the clock, the Commissioners, viz. 
Leicester surrendered to Sir Thomas Fairfax upon composition.  Colonel Rainsborough, and Colonel Pickering returned with a full conclusion, that the Town of Leicester was to be surrendered and delivered up to the King and Parliaments use, upon fair and fitting Articles of agreement on both sides; namely, that Loughborough, or Hastings that pestilent Rob-carryer should have quarter for his life, and liberty to depart both he and his Officers and Soldiers that would, with a safe convoy for their persons, etc. But to leave all Arms, Ammunition, Ordnance great and small, bag and baggage behind them in the Town, save only what was agreed on for the Officers in the Articles.  
With those Articles at large expressed, our Commissioners being returned unto Sir Thomas Fairfax, certifying farther, how marvellous joyful the poor Town of Leicester was, at the hearing of the said agreement, and that they should be rid of the Cavalierian Roisters; which accordingly was performed, and on Wednesday morning about 10 of the clock, Sir Thomas was permitted with all his forces to enter into Leicester, 
The prize taken in Leicester  and take possession thereof for the use of the King and Parliament. Wherein was left, 14 pieces of Ordnance; 30 Colours, 2000 Arms; 500 Horse, 50 barrels of Gunpowder; And all other their Arms and Ammunition, and provisions in great plenty with all their bag and baggage.  
And thus you see the Lord doth wonderfully for us still, yea, above the reach of man's wisdom: and truly we cannot but much admire the goodness of Almighty God unto us, in doing so great things for us; we cannot ascribe it to any but to the hand of God alone, who, indeed, is the Lord of Hosts, the God of battles, and the only giver of all Victories, to whom alone therefore be all the honour and glory, and praise, Amen, and Amen.  
About the 20 of this instant June, the prisoners which were taken by most renowned Sir Thomas Fairfax, and famous and faithful Major General Skippon, 
The Prisoners taken at Naseby fight, being near 5000, with 55 Colours, etc. brought up to London.  at Naseby fight forementioned, being near upon 5000 in number, were conveyed from Northampton to London, and being brought into London, they all marched clean through the City, with all the Colours, Standards, and Ensigns, yea, even the Kings and Queen's Royal Standards, about 55 in number, which were all carried in triumph, in the faces of the prisoners, who were thus led along to Martins-Lane end, in the Strand, the chief Officers and Commanders being separated from the Common Soldiers, were conducted by several guards to Peterhouse in Aldersgatestreet, 
The prisoners disposed of into several holds.  the Common Soldiers were disposed of in the New Military Garden, guarded by the Green and Yellow Regiments of the Trained Bands of the City of London; where they had liberty to discourse and talk with their Malignant friends; and where and when some of them most audaciously entered many dangerous speeches; other some confessed and complained they were pressed men, and enforced to take up Arms for the King.  
The next day of their being there, 
The usage of the Cavalierian prisoners by our Parliament.  which was the Lord's day (for they came into London on the Saturday) they had 2 eminently learned and pious Divines appointed to preach unto them, and (such was the piety and charity of our renowned Parliamentary Worthies, that) 200 pound was presently allotted to provide bread and beer for them, which was distributed among them the same night of their coming to Town. I appeal, then, to the very est and most malicious malignant that is, whether the usage were not far more Christianlike, than that most base, barbarous, and inhumanely cruel usage of our forces in Atheistical Cornwall, (though Articles and conditions to the contrary were consented to by the King himself, who was there present) where they, poor souls, were very many of them stripped naked, and enforced to march through water and mud, 
The usage of our Parliaments prisoners by the King & his Cavaliers.  thick and thin, yea, and some to go in that naked condition, without or bread or drink, some 30. some 40. some almost 50 miles: Besides this, how many of ours have been imprisoned at Oxford, Marleborough, and other places, who have been tied, and manacled their necks and heels together, and many of them starved to death, yea, even wilfully murdered in prison, as I may justly say, in not being allowed sustenance or Surgeons to heal their grievous wounds; where is you see here our Parliament piously and mercifully provided both sustenance, and Surgeons for their prisoners bodies and souls too, blessed be the Lord for it.  
Much also about the foresaid time, 
Our Brethren of Scotland's advance to Nottingham.  we had certain information, that our loyal and loving brethren of Scotland, were, now, advanced and arrived at Nottingham, with 7000 foot, and 4000 horse, expecting command for their removal, and promoving of some great design for the good of the Kingdom, and for the carrying on of the hopeful re-establishment of a happy and holy peace among us; and that in this their advance, their horse in their march on the way met with some of the Kings straggling, scattered and broken Troops fled from Naseby, and took at least 60 horse and their Riders near Skipton.  
And much about the same time we had certain intelligence by Letters out of Dorsetshire, that Captain Butler having assured information that the King's Garrison at Corff-Castle had store of Cattle, and that they turned them out to grazing every day, but fearing our forces, 
A brave exploit performed by the Garrison of Wareham in the West.  they brought them into the Castle every night; he therefore drew forth out of Wareham, a party of horse and foot in the night, being assisted by Captain Jordon, and Captain Laurence, and lay undiscovered all the night till morning, and at break of day, the Enemy in the Castle having turned out the Cattle and horse to grass, Captain Butler who commanded the horse drew near the Castle, and faced the Enemy, whiles Captain Jordan, and Captain Laurence drew up the foot, entered the Town, beat the Enemy to the Castle, and bravely kept them play, whiles the horse drove away their Cattle from under their very walls, to the number of, at least 140. and took about 20 good horse, and brought them all off safely to Wareham, in great triumph and joy, without the loss of one man.  
And about the 22 of June, we had credible information, by Letters out of Cheshire, 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy by valiant Colo. Jones in Cheshire.  that Colonel Jones, a Gentleman of approved valour and fidelity to the Parliaments Cause, having command of about 1300 horse and foot, (the horse were Sir William Breretons, who himself was gone up to London, by virtue of the Selfdenying Ordinance) and he having assured intelligence of a party of the Kings, consisting of about 1700. near Kidderminster in Worcestershire, about 12 miles from Worcester, he most courageously fell upon them, killed above 40 on the place, took 300 horse and a 100 prisoners, among whom was a Lieutenant Colonel, a Captain, and some other Officers, the remainder of them escaping fled to Beudly and Worcester, which was, indeed, their head Quarter.  
About the 26 of this instant June, our most renowned, and ever to be most highly honoured General, Sir Thomas Fairfax, sent a Letter to the high and honourable Court, and House of Commans in Parliament, 
The King's Cabinet of Letters taken at Naseby sent to the Parliament, & the Letters opened and read.  wherein he certified his sending up to the said House that most precious present and memorable mercy of the Lord unto us, I mean, The King's Cabinet, full of His and the Queen's Letters, taken in the late famous fight and most glorious Victory at Naseby; which, Sir Thomas most prudently and humbly desired, in his Letter, might be read in a full House, and public audience of all the Commons in Parliament; which accordingly was performed, and therein were most happily discovered admirable matters of as great importance as ever were discovered since the beginning of these most unhappy and unnatural Wars; which, 
4 Main heads of the Letters.  in brief, were to this effect. First, there was found a Declaration of his Majesty's intentions for the settling of Peace and Religion in this Kingdom, 
1.  certified by a Letter to the Queen, wherein he does assure her that no agreement shall be made, but what shall be approved by her, and that all Laws made against Popery shall be repealed; and yet when Letters came from Oxford to the Parliament touching a Treaty, and in the Propositions for Peace, there were verbal expressions that Laws should be made against Popery.  
Secondly, 
2.  he acquainted the Queen, that he intended to make a firm peace with his good Subjects (the Irish Rebels) and that several Acts called Paynings-Law, made in behalf of the Protestants of that Kingdom should be repealed; But in lieu thereof 40000 Irish were expected to help on the Wars in England, for he must wage War (he said) till this Perpetual Parliament (as he termed it) were dissolved, for, otherwise, he could never Order things to His or Her content.  
Thirdly, 
3.  in another Letter, the Queen chid the King, in that he did (in the Treaty at Uxbridge) acknowledge the Lords and Commons assembled at Westminster, to be a Parliament; which is answered in other Letters, then taken, that he did not positively acknowledge it a Parliament, it being otherwise to be construed, though they were so simple not to find it out. And that it was entered upon Record among the Acts of the King's Council, that it was not done out of any intent to have Posterity to think that he did truly acknowledge it a Parliament. In other Letters he also writes, That, His long Parliament would in a short time he dissolved. In others, That, if forces could be sent to the King out of foreign Kingdoms, he would cause all the Acts of Parliament against Papists, to be repealed.  
Fourthly, 
4.  the King found fault (in other Letters) that he could not prevail with his Juncto at Oxford (which he called his Mongrel Parliament) to pass a Vote against the Lords and Commons at Westminster, (which he called his perpetual Parliament) that they are not a lawful Parliament, saying, Some of them were so over-witty, some stark, fools, and others so fantastical, that he cannot make them due any things to his content. The Queen also, in one Letter, desired the King to give Jermin thanks for his care of her, and for his good service there; And the King promised not to go a jot from the little paper she sent him. Many other such like notable passages were in those Letters, but I leave the Reader for fuller satisfaction therein to the Parliaments Declaration, 
The Cabinet of Letters publicly read in Guild Hall in London, & afterward printed & published with Annotations.  and the Letters themselves, which, shortly after, were printed and published by Order of Parliament, with excellent annotations upon them, after they had first been publicly read in a Common Hall, in the Guild-Hall, in London, by a Committee of both Houses of Parliament, met there for that very purpose, the Lord Major, Aldermen, and Common Council of the City of London, together with a mighty confluence of Citizens of all sorts and ranks, being assembled thither, at the reading of the Letters and Annotations upon then, who by their shouts and exhibilations declared their marvellous dislike and disapprobations of the Kings and Queens evil expressions in them; and on the contrary, their high approbation of the Parliaments proceedings, by their unanimous acclamations upon the observations made on the said Letters by the Members of the House of Commons) to the amazement, of the (then) present hearers, and the future wonder and astonishment of Posterity, either Malignants or others; But to go on.  
About the 28 of this instant June, 
Stckesey Castle & Caus-Castle taken by the Committee of Shrewsburies' forces, and a brave Victory obtained by them, besides.  we had certain intelligence by particular Letters out of Shropshire, of divers brave services performed by the valiant and active forces of Shrewsbury Garrison, commanded by the Committee, there, namely of the taking in of Stoksey and Caus-Castles, places of great strength and importance in those parts; The substance of which Letters, and true relation of which said Victories, I have here for brevity's sake, faithfully set down, for the Readers full content and satisfaction, which were as followeth.  
SIR,  
THere was drawn out of this Garrison by order from the Committee, 500 foot, and 300 horse, viz. part of Colonel Mackworths' Regiment, and part of Colonel lloyd's Regiment, both of them marched along in the service, our forces marched within five miles of Ludlow; the design being to reduce that part of this County, and to secure it, by placing some Garrisons there, to block up Ludlow; with a party of horse they viewed Howgate and Braincroft Castles, both of which the Enemy had much demolished, notwithstanding they placed the Lord Calvine in Braincroft Castle, and fell to repair and fortify it, in the interim, they sent Lieutenant Colonel Riveling to view Stokesey Castle, a Garrison of the Enemies; the place was conceived considerable, therefore the next morning we drew up to it, and summoned it, but the Governor Captain Dauret, refused; thereupon we prepared for a storm, being ready to fall on, gave a second summons, which was harkened unto, a parley admitted, and the Castle delivered up, and is now Garrisoned by us: One of these Castles commands all Cordale, a rich and fertile part of the County; the other secures all Stretonsdale, so that Ludlow is blocked up on this side, and hath only Hereford to range in, continuing in these parts, for the securing these Garrisons, Sir Mich. Woodhouse, Governor of Ludlow, one that came out of Ireland, procures all the King's Garrisons for above 20 miles' compass, to draw out for his relief; Colon. Lunsford from Monmouth; Colonel Sands from Worcester; Colonel Skudamore from Hereford; Sir Mich. Woodhouse from Ludlow; forces from Hartlebury, and other Garrisons, all which made a body of about 2000 horse and foot, which marched up near Braincroft Castle, we being too weak to encounter with them, marched to Wistenstow, within a mile of Stook, the better to enforce ourselves from Shrewsbury and Montgomery, whither we sent for forces, but came not in time enough; the Enemies, contrary to our expectation, judging Stook of more consequence, made haste thither, to besiege it, of whose approach, the Colonels having intelligence, with advice of the field-Officers, drew our, resolving to fight, our horse made what haste they could to come in, Captain Fouks' troop, to which were joined some Reformadoes, fell upon a body of the Enemy's horse, being 200. and routed them, the foot marched on with gallant resolution, beat up all their ambuscadoes in the hedges for a mile together, until they came to the main body, which after an hour's fight, we routed and dispersed. In this business Lieutenant Colonel Rinking deserves much honour, in which he showed as much valour as a man could do, and also the other Colonels did very gallantly; we slew near 100 on the place, took above 300 common Soldiers, about 60 Officers and Gentleman, all their Ordnance, bag and baggage, 4 barrels of powder, a good quantity of match and bullets, 100 horse, some Gentlemen of quality were slain; there being most of the Gallantry of Herefordshire. 
Sir William Crofts slain.  In the action Sir William Crofts the best headpiece, and activest man in that County was slain on the place, the Governor of Ludlow and Monmouth hardly escaped, Sir Mich. Woodhouse his horse being taken. The glory of this great action belongs only to God, who was pleased to make weak means instrumental all to do so great a work: Major Fenwick who behaved himself gallantly is wounded, but we hope not mortally.  

There were taken in this fight:  
Colonel James Boughton  
Capt. Walter Neale  
Capt. George Wright  
Capt. Tho. Stait.  
Capt. Leiuten. Joseph Sing  
2 Cornets  
3 Ensigns  
2 Leivtenants  
3 Sergeants  
9 Quartermasters  
7 Corporals  
5 Waggoners  
3 Montrosses.  
Gerrard Steel, Physician.  
Richard Richardson, Chirurgeon, And many Gentlemen.   
After this fight we returned to Salop, and marched out on the 14 of June early, with 13 Colours of foot, and 5 Troops of Horse, towards Bridgenorth: On the 16 day there was sent hither 26 prisoners, most of them Officers, taken, as I understand, coming towards Bridgenorth, amongst these prisoners there were four Parsons, Viz. Parson Avacham, and Parson Ambler, these two have been wicked Incendiaries, the other two I knew not: this feat being done, our forces faced about, and before any of us knew of it, were set down before Ca●s-Castle, within 7 miles of this town, which is a strong Garrison of the Enemies; we are close up to the walls already, if we be not disturbed by a greater strength, I hope we shall carry it; all the Gentlemen of the Committee but one, are in this service, and very active.  
By Letters from Shropshire, of the 23 of June, we were certified, that the strong Castle of Cause, after 7 day's siege, was taken by the forces of Shropshire, the Officers and Soldiers marched out with their single arms, without any baggage, all the Horse are delivered up to the Committees, for the service of the public. It is a place of great concernment, and stands upon a Rock not Mineable, by this the Country is cleared on that side Severne, to Ludlow, and quite up to Montgomery, the County is in a good condition, and will be very speedily put into a brave posture. The Forces, (as one of credit reports, that came thence since the taking of Cause) are now before Shrawdon Castle.  
Much also about the foresaid time, we received certain information by Letters out of▪ Cheshire, that valiant Colonel Venables, Governor of Tarvin, having intelligence that a party of Chester forces were going forth to the relief of Caus-Castle, in the ti●e when it was besieged as aforesaid; 
A brave defeat given to the Enemies by valiant Colonel Venables in Cheshire.  this vigilant Colonel, I say, in the night time, drew forth a party out of his Garrison, went over the River of Dee, on the Welsh-side, where he met with that party of the Kings, fell bravely upon them, who being thus suddenly and unexpectedly assaulted, were soon put to the Rout, where he took Sir John powel, a Commissioner for the King's Array, and who had formerly been High Sheriff of the County of Chester, together with 40 more prisoners, whereof some were Officers, and about an 100 horse, and good store of Arms; and thus also prevented that design of the Enemies.  
And about the latter end of this instant Ju●e, we had certain intelligence out of the West, 
Heywo●th in Wilts taken by the forces of Sir Tho. Fairfax  of the taking of Heyworth in Wiltshire by the forces of our most renowned General▪ Sir Thomas Fairfax, in his way more Westward; which was thus performed. When the Enemy heard that our forces drew neerunto them, a party of them fled into the Church; but afterward their Commander in chief, drew them out of the Church to guard the Bridge, at one end of the Town, which, for a while, they pretty valiantly maintained, but were soon-forced to forsake it, 
Sir Thomas Nott slain.  with the loss of Colonel Sir Thomas Nott, and divers others, who were slain in the place on the Enemy's part; where, also, we took an 100 Arms, and other Ammunition, together with 60 prisoners.  
And here, good Reader, let me again desire thee to stay a while (and that mo●● justly) in great and grateful admiration and contemplation of the most remarkable and precious providence of our good God, 
A sweet and summary recital of all the excellent Parliamentary mercies of this Month.  and his most mighty and merciful protection and preservation of his maiveilously maligned Church, the Parliaments Cause, 
The Burning-Bush not consumed.  which, most like Moses his Burning-Bush, hath this Month also in a most high measure been preserved with no less than Celestial assistance in the midst of so many fierce and furious flames of regal Malignity▪ 
The Burning-Bush flourishing in flames.  not only from being even quite extinct and consumed; but even miraculously made to prosper and flourish in flames, maugre all the might and machinations of its proudest and most politic pressing and oppressing Enemies, as is most eminently and evidently to be seen and acknowledged.  
First, 
1.  in that affectionate and feeling. Petition of the Citizens of London to the Parliament, touching the then present sad and low condition of the whole Kingdom; Together with that brave defeat given to the Enemies near Chester, by valiant Lieutenant Colonel Venables: And that of renowned Rossiter at H●ugh●m-House.  
Especially, 
2.  in that most famous, glorious and ever to be recorded Victory, most worthy to be deeply engraven in never to be obliterated Characters, of most grateful and gracious hearts, far more precious and pleasing to God than richest and costliest Capitall-Letters of Gold, I mean, that most memorable Victory at Naseby in Northamptonshire, given by our good God to his va●iant and virtuous, his gallant and godly servant Sir Thomas Fairfax, the Parliaments most renowned General. 
3.  In the excellent successes of the Parliaments forces against their Enemies in Shropshire; And the sacred and solemn celebration of a Day of Thanksgiving to our all-good-giving God, for that foresaid great Victory in special; And the Parliaments honourable gratitude to God's Instruments therein; 
4.  A rare and right way to beget more blessings. In the most happy regaining of Leicester out of the Harpeian-hands of Enemies; And the triumphant conduction of the Naseby Prisoners to London, there to be kept in custody; yet used there with Christian mercy and clemency. 
5.  In our loyal and loving Brethren of Scotland's nearer advance unto us, to help the Lord against the Mighty; Together with that brave defeat given to our Enemies by the Garrison of Wareham in the W●st; And valiant▪ Colonel Joneses also against our adversaries in Cheshire. 
6.  In the Lords admirable good providence in bringing to light and public knowledge the Kings and Queens most ungodly designs for the ruinating of all their 3 late most flourishing Kingdoms, by the happy apprehension of the King's Cabinet of Letters; Together with the continued good success of our forces in S●ropshire; in the taking of Stokesey Castle, Caus-Castle, and Heighworth in Wiltshire. In the most serious and sanctmonious rumination, 
A succinct return of gratitude to God for all the great Parliamentary mercies of this Month.  and recogitation of all which most rich and rare Parliamentary Mercies and Victories, most sweet and singular passages and fair footsteps of divine providence and preservation, O how should our hearts b●e r●nzed and raised up to an exceeding high pitch of praise and incessant and redundant gratitude to our so good, so great, so gracious God, who hath so gloriously, and so graciously wrought all these great things for us, especially that most famous and glorious, and never sufficiently to be admired mercy in Nasebies admirable and most advantageous Victory; Concerning which, O how can England, greatly beloved England (though most ungrateful and sinful England) but in infinitely bound and unbounded-exultation and admiration, confess and say with the Holy Prophet, 
Isai. 42. 13.  that, The Lord went forth (in this famous fight) as a mighty man, stirring up jealousy and wrath, as a man of War, and mightily prevailing against his enemies. By whom, 
Chap. 29. 20.  the terrible one is brought to nought, the scorners are consumed, and all that maliciously watched for iniquity, and blood, are righteously cut off. And therefore, I say, O how justly may we here take up that of the pious Prophet David, and with him most cordially sing and say, If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, now may England say; if it had not been the Lord who was on our side, 
Psal. 124. 1, 2, 3 4, 5, etc.  when men rose up against us, They had swallowed us up quick, when their rage and wrath was kindled against us. Then the waters had overwhelmed us; Yea, the proud waves had gone over our Souls. But, blessed, O, for ever blessed be the Lord, who hath not given us (as justly for our sins he might) a prey to their mouths. For our Soul is escaped as a bird out of the snare; and all our help stands in the name of the Lord; Hallelujah, therefore, Hallelujah, praised and ever blessed and glorified be the name of the Lord.  

July. 1645.  ANd now to proceed in our farther progress to the continued contemplation of this admirable still continued wonder of the Burning-Bush Vnconsumed, and, therein, of the rich and rare mercies of our ever blessed and bountiful God, the unexhaustible fountain of all goodness to us his English Israel:  
And first, I shall acquaint the Reader, that whiles our most miserably seduced King, was fleeting from place to place between Bristol and the Forest of Dean, etc. and (taking fierce and furious illegal courses to recruite his mangled Army, even almost quite broken in pieces at Nasebies famous fight) among the poor and perplexed inhabitants of Herefordshire, Worcester, and such parts of Gloucestershire, as he had any power in to strengthen and revive his now gasping, 
A day of humiliation appointed by Order of Parliament, & kept by the Assembly of Divines in several Churches in London, to seek a blessing on our forces in the West.  and near expiring desperate designs in the West, with Goring and Greenvill, devilish Dives, and the rest. In this interim, I say, our most pious and prudent Parliament had Ordered, by a special Ordinance from the House of Commons, that the Assembly of Divines at Westminster should upon Tuesday the first of this instant July, seek the Lord our God for his continued aid and assistance in blessing the proceedings of our forces (than also gathering into the West) in a set day of Humiliation, in the City of London, which was accordingly performed by divers of the most eminent Members of the said Assembly, who all that day did Preach and Pray, in these following places, Viz. In the Abbey at Westminster, in Christ-Church in London; Blackfriars, Dunstan's West, Dunstan's East, Michael Cornhill, Olaves Southwark, Algate, and Aldermanburic. A Jove o●ne principium. And are not those works like to prosper indeed, which are begun in the Lord? Yes certainly, as now we shall yet farther illustrate, and set forth in their subsequent and most proper places.  
And much about the very same time, there being a strong suspicion of dangerous persons, to lurk and lie hid and harboured in a house in Long-Acres, near Covent Garden, which had been the House of one Mr. Catesby, where once the Pope's Nuncio lay, and was entertained; this House, I say, being suspected, was suddenly searched by authority thereunto given, and there they found and apprehended at least 29 or 30 Carts load of Papists and pernicious Malignants goods to a great value, 
At least 29 or 30 Carts load of Popish goods apprehended in a house in Long-Acre, near Covent. Garden.  being very much thereof rich goods indeed, which was all taken away and carried to Haberdashers-Hall, or to Cambden-House. There was among them also very much Popish apish trumpery, as Crucifixes, Images, and many Popish Books, which were laid up and kept till a due time to be reduced into ashes by the fire, the best use that could be made of such Roman Babylonish babyish fooleries; and the rest of the goods to be sold to the best advantage, and the money to be disposed of by Order of Parliament, for the use and supply of the Parliaments Garrisons and forces in the West.  
About the 4 of this instant, 
Our Brethren of Scotland's excellent Remonstrance presented to the King.  our most loyal and loving Brethren of Scotland published a most pious and modest Remonstrance, which they had lately before sent and (for certain) had presented to the King himself; wherein they showed themselves full of godly zeal and fidelity to God, the King and Parliament of England, which being singularly worthy of special notice, but too large to be here inserted at full, as it was delivered, I shall here, only, for brevity's sake, give the godly Reader some of the most memorable passages or heads thereof, 
The Heads of▪ it.  which were to this effect.  
First, 
1.  that his Majesty would be pleased to call to mind their oft neglected addresses to him heretofore, and after their prayers to God for him, and his Posterity, they certified, how unfaithful they should be to God and his Majesty, if they should conceal the present danger wherein he is, a danger infinitely greater than the displeasure of his people. They therefore in the humility and grief of their Souls did prostrate themselves before his Throne, and in the name of our Lord and Master, Jesus Christ; 〈◊〉 bold to warn him that the guilt which cleaveth so fast to his Throne, and his Soul, is such, as if not timely repent will involve him and his Posterity under the wrath of the everliving God.  
Next, 
2.  they freely proceeded to acquaint his Majesty what were the occasions of his great and growing danger, in which, if they should be silent, their conscience would condemn them, and the stones themselves would find expressions. As first, for his being guilty of the shedding of the blood of many thousands of his best Subjects. Secondly, for permitting the Mass, and other Idolatry, both in his Family and Dominions. Thirdly, for his authorising the book of Sports, and by consequence the profanation of the Lords Day. Fourthly, for his not punishing of public scandals in and about his ●ourt. Fifthly, for the shutting of his ears from the humble and just desires of his faithful Subjects. Sixtly, for his complying too much with the Popish party many ways, and namely by concluding the Cessation of Arms in Ireland, and embracing the Counsels of those who have not set God, nor his good before their eyes. Seventhly, for resisting, and by Arms opposing this Cause, which so much concerns the glory of God, his own honour and happiness, and the peace and safety of his Kingdoms. Eightly, for some other private causes of which his Majesty is conscious to himself. It being not the desire of these grave and reverend men to have mentioned any particulars, if that they had not already been public and known: For all these, and for every one of them they implore his Majesty to fall down at the footstool of the King of Glory, to acknowledge his offences, to make haste to repentance, and to labour for peace with God through Jesus Christ, that the Son of God may reign over him and his Kingdoms in his pure Ordinances, and the Government of the Church.  
Moreover, they desire his Majesty to take notice that they are not staggering or faint hearted, through diffidence of the success of their Cause, and the Covenant of the three Kingdoms, unto which as God hath already given many testimonies of his favour and blessing, so it shall be their unshaken confidence that this is the work and Cause of God, which shall gloriously prevail against all opposition, and from which with the assistance of the Grace of God they shall never suffer themselves to be divided or withdrawn, but shall zealously and constantly in their several Vocations endeavour with their Estates and Lives to pursue and advance the same.  
This Remonstrance being so full of piety to God, and allegiance to the King, is able (some would think) to beget a better opinion in the stubbornest Malignants, concerning the proceedings of our Brethren the Scots, and either to persuade, or convince them to a better understanding of them. The Lord Digby hath returned answer that his Majesty will take it into consideration, who knows but that God may so move his Royal heart that the Letters of this paper may be more effectual than an Army of men in the field, and be a happy means to reduce the King to his Parliament? But notwithstanding all this, he still goes on in a most hardened condition, like a most miserable Prince. For, as we well knew, in the mean while, he was making what possible speed he could to recover new strength. His Warrants are issued forth for supplies of men, whiles the miserable and desolate Country, that a long time hath suffered under the calamity of war, can lend him but little assistance either for men or money: We heard that a great part of his Horsemen were wounded in Naseby fight, and that he lately made a halt and stayed the longer in Wales to understand the inclinations of the people: Indeed his Army might well halt, when that so many of his men were wounded, and our swords have not so deeply wounded his men, as he hath wounded his own honour by calling over the Irish to assist him. They say that there are a Legion or Brigade of Irish consisting of about 4000 who are newly landed to assist him. I suspect the truth thereof, and have reason to be doubtful of it, because I find that our greatest Intelligencers cannot agree amongst themselves, and do much vary in what place they are landed. It is very likely that many are come over, but not so many as are commonly reported.  
And are the barbarous and prodigious Acts of the Irish in their own Kingdom such pleasing cruelties, that they must be sent for into England, to act them over again here? Must the West, which suffered the last year under the horrid lust and fury of the French, be now the Stage where the Irish shall act their Tragedies. Rouse up thyself thou desolate and much afflicted West, thou hast now the means to shake off the yoke of thy Subjection, if thou art so happy as to apprehend the means of thy deliverance. But to go on.  
About the 6 of this instant July, whiles the poor King was thus fruitlessly struggling (Per fas & nefas) to recruite his foresaid broken Army; 
The Garrison of Dudley castle shrewdly put to it, and ●orely defeated by our forces, and our brethren of Scotland.  our most noble and renowned General Sir Thomas Fairfax was now in the West, endeavouring with all fidelity and magnanimity of spirit, to purchase (by God's assistance) Liberty to those long distressed parts of the Kingdom, and just honour to himself; and, as credible information affirmed, had sent a choice body of horse to Gloucester, to observe the motion of the King's Army, and to attend the landing of his forces on this side the River Severn, which he could not do without apparent danger. In which interim, we had certain intelligence that the King's Garrison of Dudley Castle was shrewdly put to it: For, as they were abroad plundering the Country thereabout, Captain Hunt sell upon a party of them, and having slain some, he took many horse from them, and divers prisoners whom he carried with him to Warwick.  
Since which also (as we were credibly informed) our Brethren of Scotland lighted on another party of them, and after a brave conflict with them, wherein divers of the Enemies were slain on the place, they made them less in number by at least 80 horse than they were before. And shortly after this we were, for certain, certified, that the Governor of Stafford, came up with a party of horse, and gave an alarm to the Castle itself; 
Dudley castle faced & outfaced by the Governor of Stafford.  Whereupon the Enemy not enduring the affront, drew forth into the field, thinking, indeed, our party not to be so strong as afterward they found it; and to increase this their apprehension and conceit therein, Colonel Ashburst politicly retreated, on purpose to draw them from their place of refuge, and to gain more miles to follow the pursuit; which by God's mercy they resolutely intended. Now the Enemy (thinking all their own) came on as far as Wolverhampton after him, where the brave Colonel facing about and giving them a violent charge, broke quite through them, and charging them again, he absolutely routed them, and took many prisoners, among whom were 2 Captains, 3 Leivtenants and other Officers, about 60 horse, and much Arms, all which he brought safely into Stafford.  
And much about the foresaid time, we had certain intelligence by Letters from that much honoured Patriot Sir William Armyne, and Mr. 
Carlisle surrendered to our brethren the Scots.  Henry Darley, and the rest of the Commissioners of the North, that the Town of Carlisle, which had divers weeks been besieged by a party of the Scottish Army, under the Command of the noble Earl of Callender, was now surrendered to our said Brethren of Scotland, upon Articles of agreement; viz. in brief, that Sir Thomas Glemham, than Governor thereof, and his Soldiers should march with their Arms to Newark, etc. But that they left behind them in the Town, great store of Arms and Ammunition, 20 pieces of Ordnance, and much other good provision.  
About the 8 instant we were certainly informed, that shortly after the good success of our Shrewsbury forces, in the taking of Caus-Castle, 
Shrawarden-Castle in Shrop●shire surrendered to Colon. Macworth.  forementioned, valiant Colonel Mackworth marched to Shrawarden-Castle, where, after summons and some shot sent forth, a parley was offered and accepted, and the said Castle on conditions surrendered to him, wherein they found some competent store of Arms, one Drake, and much other good provision, and the Enemy therein being about 300 in number were sent away to Ludlow, as they desired, and our forces presently after this, with valiant Colonel Mackworth marched to Higharchall Castle.  
And about the 10 of this instant July, 
Our most renowned Sir Thomas Fairfax and noble Major General massy met near Taunton.  we had certain information by Letters out of the West, that the Right honourable and most renowned General Sir Thomas Fairfax, and ever to be honoured Major General Massey, being happily conjoined with their forces into one body at Branford, they now marched forward to Taunton, and understanding by their Scouts in what posture the Enemy was; now a third time sat down about that notable eyesore of theirs, terribly maligned Taunton, they advanced toward them; But Goring hearing of Sir Thomas his approach, drew off to Chard, and not daring to fight drew off all his Army from before Taunton, 
Taunton most happily relieved a third time.  and marched quite away from them, whereby that brave Town and the thousands of most precious Souls therein, were now a third time (blessed be the Lord) clearly set at Liberty from farther fear and danger of those their base and barbarous bloodthirsty Enemies, who like devouring Locusts had lain long lurking about their parts and quarters, in greedy gaping hope every day to have eaten them up: But, who being thus happily driven away, the Country round about came in unto them most joyfully, with all kind of provisions in abundance, 
Great plenty of provision and a full Market already at Taunton.  whereby they had presently a most plentiful Market kept among them.  
The preservation of this Town, was, indeed, of very great concernment and most worthily to be accounted no less than a marvellous mercy from heaven, and therefore to give the Lord our God all due honour and praise for the same; And withal we may not neglect his instruments therein, but in the next place highly praise and prise their love and labours, especially here also to make particular mention of the ever to be honoured General Sir Thomas Fairfax, who after so much hardship in Marches, Siege, and Battle, 
The brief, but deserved honour of our renowned General.  in so short a time, trod so much ground, as to come so seasonably to the relief of so many brave spirited and undaunted resolved Soldiers and honest-hearted inhabitants, who with so much difficulty (and in much want of necessaries) had maintained themselves and defended the Town against a very potent, and most pestilent and bloodthirsty Atheistical adversary.  
About the same time also came certain intelligence unto us by Letters out of Gloucestershire, that a party of the Parliaments forces being before Barkley Castle, 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy at Barkley castle.  at a distance, to keep in the Enemy from ranging abroad, there being about 15 or 16 horse, that were as Sentinels, attending the Castle; the Enemy prepared a party from within, of about 300 horse and foot, and came forth thinking to surprise the said Sentinels; but those few horse discovering the Enemies approach unto them, took the best advantage they possibly could, and bravely defended themselves till the alarm came to the rest of their horse, who thereupon came in speedily to their rescue, and fell upon the Enemy with much courage, and routed them, killed 16 in the place, whereof 2 were forward Captains, many were wounded, and about 40 taken prisoners, Sir Charles' Lucas, the Governor of the Castle was there in person in the fight, and escaped with a wound, as we were informed; we took also at the same time 30 horse and upward, and a 100 Arms, and pursued the Enemy to the very Castle-gates, and, in this brave service, we lost not above 3 men. And thus we see, the Lord does great things for us every day, ever magnified be his name therein.  
And about the 12 instant, 
A pious Petition exhibited to the Parliament by the Inhabitants of Westminster.  divers Gentlemen and others of the City of Westminster, came to the Parliament, and presented a petition to the House of Commons, in the name of the whole City of Westminster, setting forth the great happiness and privilege they now enjoy by the care of the Parliament, and unwearied pains of the Divines of the Assembly, that preach the morning Lecture weekly at the Abbey in Westminster, whereby many that lived in Darkness and Ignorance for many years together do now see the light of the Gospel more clearly and plainly than ever, their humble suit to the House was, that the said Ministers so preaching weekly, viz. Dr. Stanton, Mr. Martial, Mr. Nye, Mr. Palmer, Mr. Hill, and Mr. Whittaker, may have a competent maintenance allowed them out of the Revenues of the late Dean and Chapter of the said Abbey, that so they may in some measure be enabled to subsist and encouraged to go on in this great work of converting and bringing Souls daily nearer to God. After reading of this Petition and debate thereupon, an Ordinance was read and Committed to a Committee, for regulating the College of Westminster, after which the House gave Order, the Petitioners should be called in before the House, where Mr. Speaker in the Name and by command of the whole House, informed the Petitioners that the House had read and debated their Petition, and had likewise read an Ordinance for regulating the College of Westminster, and had put them both in a way to their satisfaction, and returned them the thanks of that House for their care and zeal for the public.  
Much also about the foresaid time, we received certain information by Letters from Abbington, of the prosperous success and brave exploits of our forces under the command of that most valiant and vigilant Commander Major General Brown; the substance of one of which Letters was to this effect. viz.  
SIR,  
I Presume you have already heard of the taking of 65 Wallingford Horses, by our noble Major General's forces. Likewise, how at Farrington we took 40 more, 
The prosperous success of our forces at Abbington, under the Command of valiant Major General Brown.  many prisoners, and some of note. Since which, the Enemy fell upon our New Garrison at Gaunt House, with 500 horse and 300 foot, and one piece of Ordnance; they being forces drawn from Oxford, Woodstock, and Farrington, Commanded by Leg, then, Governor of Oxford; they fell upon our horse quarters, and began to drive away our Horse, but a small party of our foot forces out of Gaunt Garrison, beat them out of the grounds, whiles our men had time to recover some of our horses again, with which they pursued the Enemy above 3 miles, recovered all their horse which the Enemy had gotten, save a matter of 3 or 4. killed 10 of them, took 14 prisoners, and 30 horse of theirs, and this service they performed with less than 20 horse. Since which, our horse joined with them of Gaunt House, fell into the quarters of a Regiment of the Kings, which came to recruite the King's Garrison at Radcot-Bridge, where ours took 70 of the Enemy's Horse, the Colonels own Colours (himself escaping by wading over the water) together with some prisoners. And immediately upon this good success they marched to Woodstock, into the Enemy's quarters, there, and took a Captain prisoner, with 5 or 6 others, and about 30 horse: And thus it pleased the Lord to prosper our forces in all their attempts, and to enable them to come off, still, with little or no loss.  
And about the same time our most prudent and provident Parliamentary Statists, having lately before deligated and chosen some of the Members of Both Houses, to go as their Commissioners to the Parliament then begun in Scotland, 
Commissioners sent to the Parliament in Scotland, & a Committee sent to the Scotch army  with instructions given them by our Parliament, for managing of affairs there, in a reciprocal form (for the firmer combining of mutual love, and the fairlyer carrying on of the affairs of Both Kingdoms, with full content on both sides) as our loving brethren the Scots, have their Commissioners residing here constantly with our Parliament in England; the names of which Commissioners nominated and appointed to go thither, were, the Lord Wharton, for the House of Peers, Sir Henry Vane, Senior; Sir William Armyne; Mr. Darley, and Mr. Goodwin for the House of Commons. And reverend Mr. Martial, and Mr. Strong, Members of the Assembly of Divines, were ordered to go along with them. So also there was a Committee of Lords and Commons ordered to be resident with the Army of our Brethren the Scots, then, in Worcestershire, to farther their advances for the benefit and safety of the Kingdom, and (if the Lords will be so) to shorten the linger plague of the Sword among us; The names of this Committee, thus nominated to be with the Scots Army were; the Earl of and the Lord Montague, for the House of Peers; and Sir John Cabell, Mr. Purefoy, Mr. Salway, and Mr. Baynton, for the House of Commons.  
And, now, about the 14 of this instant, we had certain and comfortable intelligence, that about the 9 of this instant July, being Wednesday, active, honest, and most valiant Major General massy, being sent forth, by our most noble General Sir Thomas Fairfax, with a party of Horse and Dragoones, about 5000. besides foot; 
The famous defeat given to goring army at Lang-port in the West.  had the honour of giving the first blow of a most famous and victorious skirmish, and brave defeat given to the Enemy, at or about Lang-port; which very blow made the Soul and Spirit of the advers Army to tremble, and faint, and fly away. For, 
The first victorious blow given by renowned Major General massy.  he instantly fell upon about 2000 of goring horse in Ilmore, who, as soon as our men came in sight of them, ran away, in great fear and confusion, and Major General Massies forces followed and pursued them almost to their very Garrison of Lang-port, where their foot were all quartered, and their horse at Abersoil, and the parts adjacent; 
The prisoners & prizes taken at the first onset.  In which first blow of this famous defeat, this noble Major General took at least 5 or 600 horse, about 300 prisoners, whereof were 2 Majors, 6 Captains, 9 Colours, and slew above 20 in the place; The Enemy in this their hasty retreat, or rather plain flight from our men, still cut up the Bridges as they passed, which our men, notwithstanding, made up as fast as they broke them down; 
Major General Massies policy in pursuit of his Enemies.  for, politic Major General massy had 2 Regiments of Dragoones, which road with Spades and Pickaxes, and a third also with pallisadoes for these very purposes.  
On Thursday, July the 10. our renowned General Sir Thomas Fairfax, by 3 of the clock in the morning, drew out that part of the Army, which he had with him into Sutton fields, the rest continuing with Major General massy, on the other side of the River; the General had with him 7 Regiments of Horse; 
Our renowned Gen. Sir Thomas Fairfax prepares for a fight  Viz. his own, Lieutenant General Cromwell's, Colonel Whaleyes, Colonel Vermudens, Colon. Graves, Colon. Riches, Colon. fleetwood's, and Colonel Butlers, which scarce made 2800 horse; he had all his foot with him, save the Musketeers of 3 Regiments. Our Signal word was, God with us. The Enemy's word was, Bristol. Early also the same morning the Enemy drew into the field and about 7 of the clock had made themselves Masters of a pass, 
The Enemy also drew forth into the field.  which lay in the midst between our body and theirs, being the only way for our men to make way to fall upon them, where there could not march above 4 a breast, and up to the belly in water, and their horses ready to swim, in no little danger as they passed on, and in which place the Enemy did both front and flank them on both sides (and therefore you may easily judge what a hard task they were put unto) and in this posture they stood till about 11 of the clock, 
The straits of our forces in the Rivers.  they having in the mean time sent away most of their Ammunition bag and baggage, 
The effects of the foresaid defeat.  led horses and other Lumber to Bridgewater, fearing (it seemed) to stand to the Battle, having been so much discouraged by the defeat given them by valiant massy as aforesaid, on the day before. Now, when as General Fairfaxes forlornes marched nigh the Enemy (they having divided themselves on the hill, 
The Enemy put into an amazed rout & flight.  on which they stood, into several divisions and squadrons of horse and foot) our foot fired upon them in Volleys, and our Ordnance played so quick and sure, that the Enemy were soon routed, and seemed as in a maze, not knowing which way to fly, to avoid the execution of our Cannon, yet all this while they maintained the passage, which was in hot dispute between them and us, yet at last within an hour or thereabout, we, though with difficulty gained it, and sent horse to second our foot. Major Bethel, 
Major Bethels brave courage and resolution.  with his troop only, went on in the first place, being to go up a steep hill to charge; by that time that he came near, the Enemy drew on in a vast body of Horse against him, and had also Musketteirs in a hedge, which did flank him, and somewhat front him also, yet this brave Major managed the charge with such gallantry, that he routed 2 of their divisions of about 400. received the charge of the third division, both in front and flank, but at last being overpowered by reason of their numbers increasing upon him, he bravely retired to the General's Regiment, which was not far behind him; 
Col. Desborough bravely charges the Enemy, & helps Major Bethel.  and Colonel Desborough, with the General's Troops, sheltered him by his flank, and charged up himself with about 200 horse, and dispersed and scattered the Enemy, and gave freedom thereby for all our horse and foot to draw into bodies, whereupon the enemy fell to plain running, not being able to endure the charge. The General, Lieutenant General, and some other Officers, being on the hill at this charge, commended it for as brave and resolute a piece of service as any they had seen performed since the beginning of these wars; 
The Enemy put to ●light.  Our men having thus put the Enemy to flight, pursued them within 4 miles of Bridgewater; And in the flight, the Enemy passing through their own Garrison of Langport, most mischeivously and desperately fired the Town at the Bridge end, 
The Enemies in their flight most desperately did set the Town of Lang-port on fire.  to hinder our men in the pursuit; but renowned Leiut. Gen. Cromwell himself, and his resolute Soldiers undauntedly resolved to pass through fire (as renowned massy had before, through water, as was forementioned) after them; and so through the midst of Lang-port they passed, although the fire was flaming very hot on both sides of them, there being about 20 houses in all burned down. And here me thinks, I cannot but take special notice of the faithfulness of our good God, in all his holy and righteous promises, which to his children as they are always in Christ, yea and Amen: so at this time, in a special and most peculiar manner, that faithful promise of his by the Prophet Isaiah, was most exactly here fulfilled to these his Saints and Christian Soldiers. When thou possessed through the waters I will be with thee, 
Isa. 43. 2, 3.  and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee. When thou also passest through the fire, thou shalt not be burnt, neither shall the flame kindle upon thee; for I am the Lord thy God, the holy one of Israel, and thy Saviour. O the most particular and exact performance of this good word of God here, now, I say, to these his faithful ones. Even to wonder and admiration.  
And thus it pleased the Lord to give us a glorious day of it, by this so famous a defeat, 
God the great and only giver of this famous Victory.  and apparent Victory; Let the glory thereof be ascribed primarily to our good God, as to the Author and giver of all Victories; And in the next place, to his pious, prudent, and valiant instruments, our renowned General Sir Thomas Fairfax, 
His Instruments therein.  Lieutenant General massy, and Lieutenant General Cromwell, and the rest of those valiant Commanders and Soldiers, who were deeply engaged therein.  

A true and perfect List of the slain, prisoners, and prizes taken from the Enemy in this famous defeat.  


Slain.  
goring Quartermaster General of Horse.  
goring Quartermaster General of Foot.  
60 Officers, that were buried about Weston, whereof some very eminent men.  
200 that were left dead upon the place, whereof many Officers, 100 or very nigh, drowned.    


Wounded.  
Goring himself had a cut with a Sword over the ear.  
Sir Thomas Aston, and 3 or 4 Knights more wounded.    


Taken Prisoners.  
Lieutenant General Blothridge, alias Bertridge, Lieutenant General of the Ordnance.  
Colon. Slingsby of Horse.  
Colon. Hunningham of Horse.  
Leiuten. Col. Standish of Horse.  
Leiuten. Col. Gamble of Horse.  
3 Majors of Horse.  
4 Captains of Horse.  
11 Leivtenants of Horse.  
20 Cornets of Horse.  
Colonels, Lieutenant Colonels, Majors, Captains, and Officers of Foot, have not yet sent in their Lists, save only 3 of the Captains of Horse.  
60 Inferior Officers at least.  
1900 Prisoners.    


Taken besides.  
35 Colours of Horse.  
21 Colours of Foot.  
2 Field pieces.  
4000 and odd Arms.  
3 Cartload of Ammunition.  
3 Cartload of other purchase.  
2000 Horse taken and above.  
Divers Arms both of Horse and Foot, daily found in the ditches, which the enemy threw away when they fled.  
The Camp Whore's fled away th●row the hedges.  
700 of those that are taken, petition to serve the Parliament.    


The loss on our part.  
2 Reformado Captains slain.  
Major Bethells thumb and fore-fingers shattered.  
Colon. Butler's Captain Lieutenant slain.  
Colonel Cook shot on the mouth slightly on his upper lip.  
4 or 5 of Bethels Troop slain, and about 16 of his Troop wounded, and very few more killed on our side.     
The House of Commons Ordered, upon the happy intelligence of this famous Victory, that 200 pound should be given to valiant Major bethel for his special service in this brave fight; 
Major Bethel & Major Harrison, that brought the news of this victory rewarded  And two good horses to be given to valiant and virtuous Major Harrison, who brought the news thereof.  
And especially (as was most boundenly fit) our most renowned Worthies in Parliament, Ordered and appointed that a solemn day of Thanksgiving should be celebrated for the Lords exceeding great mercy and goodness unto us; the Copy of which their Order, I have here thought fit to insert, as it was printed and published by their authority, which was as followeth.  

Die Lunae 14 Julii. 1645.  
ORdered by the Lords and Commons in Parliament Assembled, that Tuesday being the 22 of this instant July, shall be set apart for a public day of Thanksgiving to Almighty God, in all Churches and Chapels through the whole Kingdom under the power of the Parliament, for the great and glorious Victory obtained by the Parliaments forces, under the command of Sir Thomas Fairfax, on the Enemy's forces in the West: And that on the same day, the Ministers do likewise take notice of the great mercy of God in preserving the City of London, during the sitting of this Parliament, from the infection of the Plague, and that this order be printed and published.  
Ordered by the Lords and Commons assembled in Parliament, That the Committee of the several Counties do take care that the Order for a public day of Thanksgiving on Tuesday seven-night be dispersed to the several Parishes in the respective Counties; And that the Counties do keep the same day; And that the Members of this House that serve for the several Counties do send these Orders to the respective Committees accordingly.   
And now all that I shall add for the farther illustration of the just praise and glory of God, 
Observations & special serious notes upon this ●amous victory.  touching this famous fight and glorious Victory, shall be only these few serious and material Observations upon the same.  
First, 
1.  that had not God made our Soldiers forget all their weariness, and many other former and present difficulties, and so hasted this famous work, the Enemy had certainly been reinforced with at least 5000 Welsh foot, whereof 1500 were already come over Severn at that time.  
Secondly, 
2.  Greenvile, that vile Apostate, and perfidious fugitive, had undoubtedly brought down as many out of Cornwall, with all whom we must of necessity have buckled jointly together, and so have undergone far greater difficulty.  
Thirdly, that now we having thus happily dissipated and scattered this great Army of his Majesties then in being, 
3.  not an Army is left unto him, in any parts of the Kingdom, but such as may be, with an ordinary active power, still scattered and discomfitted, and soon (by God's blessing) be brought to nothing.  
Fourthly, 
4.  that if the Clubmen (then risen up in Arms in those Counties, and whereof I shall speak more particularly anon) join with us, now after this admirable success, they also may all suddenly be at quiet, and quickly see good days, and the West all ours.  
Fifthly, 
5.  I here also desire God's people, with me, to take special notice of our most renowned General's wisdom, valour, and unparallelled expedition in this whole service, ever since he first began it; and that (according to the rules of War) the honour of all (next under our most great and glorious Lord God) is chiefly due to him; and that it is most clear, that his rare Discipline and sweet Harmony with his forces, with God's blessing thereon hath been his Crown.  
Sixthly, 
6.  consider the place where this defeat was given, viz. a poor oppressed Country, and that in the remote parts of the Kingdom, that so from the one end of the Land to the other, we and all they may see and know that God is for us and with us; and it was also near the place where the remaining part of the Enemy lay, and it is a mercy to be near the Enemy, and that in a conquering way, too; and not to be forced to go and seek him up and down.  
Seventhly, 
7.  consider the persons by whom God gave this victory, namely (as I touched before in our famous Naseby fight) that despised Army, which was the scorn and byword of many, both seeming friends and open foes, of whom, O, said some, They'll never fight, being fearful young Soldiers. O, says another, You will quickly see an end of this poor New-Modelled Army, I warrant you. Alas, alas, says a third, There is no worth in any of them all, only they pretend Religion, forsooth, but there is not a good Soldier among them, and therefore they shall never be able to stand against the King's brave Army, of old, able, experienced Soldiers. Thus, they proudly, presumptuously, yea, most foolishly, despised the day of small things. And forgot, that, of wise Solomon, That the race was not to the swift, nor the battle to the rider.  
Eightly, 
8.  and lastly, take notice to what persons God had given the benefit of this blessed Victory, namely (that though indeed, it must needs be granted and with comfort recorded, it was and is the most religious and praying Army that ever this Kingdom beheld, yet mixed with very many wicked concomitants, and rude and irreligious coadjutors, as instruments therein) yet, I say, in general) for us, in this Kingdom, who are a people most unfit for, most unworthy of such and so rare mercies, who have not yet repent us of our former abominations; Yea, who as much as in us is, refuse our own mercies, had not God thus freely loved us. And therefore, O what infinite and ineffable praise and thanksgivings are due to our God, who thus continually heals our backslidings, and loves us thus freely! But now to proceed.  
And now to perform my promise concerning the Western Clubmen, a disorderly rabble, 
The Western Clubmen.  and rude company of Mongrel Malignants, and rotten-hearted nauseous Newtrals, now about this time, and lately before risen up in the West; Of whom, I confess, I have hitherto made no mention, nor of their baseness, obstinacy, and insolency; both those of Wilts, Dorsetshire, and Sommersetshire, because I looked on them, as on a rude and undigested body of tergiversatious Bats, and impious Atheistical heathens, worshipping the Sunrising, 
The Clubmen come in to the Parliaments party.  and frighted at the Setting of it: Who now seeing the rising of this Sun of Victory in the Parliaments Horizon, especially the Sommersetshire Clubmen, who indeed, at the very first seemed to be somewhat active Clubbers against Hopton, Stowell, and the rest of those Royalists, and Roysterly incendiaries, of the Western parts: They now all began to appear for victorious Fairfax; and besides about 80 of goring forces, whom they had seized upon, and disarmed before this fight, they brought along with them; who willingly also offered their service to the Parliament; And after this they brought in many others of goring men prisoners to our forces, and did other good service and stiff execution against the Enemy, wherever they fastened on them.  
Upon the 22 of this instant, the public day of Thanksgiving for the good success of the Parliaments Army at Lang-port, was according to Order of Parliament, 
The manner of the celebration of the Solemn Thanksgiving-day in London, for the famous Victory over our Enemies at Langport.  forementioned, solemnly celebrated in all the Churches and Chapels in London, and Westminster, and within the Lines of Communication; And the Collections and contributions, gathered that day, in all Churches and Chapels aforesaid, were for the relief of our distressed brethren in the West, to refresh in some present measure, their afflicted loins.  
And in the evening of that day, after the performance of the public and private holy duties thereof to the Lord our God, other external expressions of joy and thankfulness, were performed also all over the City, ringing of Bells, and making of Bonfires, especially in Cheapside, whither a great many of Popish pictures, Crucifixes, Images, Popish Books, and such like paltry Romish trumpery, which, not long before, I told you, were taken in Long-Acre, were now brought, and just in the place where the guilded gaudy Cross formerly stood, were in a mighty Bonfire built up with firpoles, and faggots, burnt to ashes, in the presence of multitudes of people, triumphing at the sight of it.  
Upon the 26 of this instant July, came another most happy and plentiful increase of our comfort, by Letters out of the West to London, of the certain taking of one part of the strong Town of Bridgewater, by our most renowned and heroick-hearted General Sir Thomas Fairfaxes forces; 
Bridgewater taken by storm.  and immediately after of the total taking thereof by storm; The exact manner whereof I have here thought fit, for the Readers fuller content and satisfaction, to insert and set down, in a Letter sent by a worthy Gentleman of Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Army, who was a special actor in the Service, to the Speaker of the House of Commons, which was as followeth.  

To the Honourable William Lenthall Esquire, Speaker to the House of Commons.  
SIR,  
I Writ to you formerly, of the late Battle with Goring, and of the taking of Lang-port and Burrow, two Garrisons of the Enemy; since which time, the Army hath blocked up Bridgewater, in nature of a siege, and yet have refreshed themselves, being necessitated to lie still (if no Enemy had been near) till our money came up, which arrived here on Wednesday; and the Army, Horse and Foot, being Mustered, were paid on Friday and Saturday, the rest this day. But Action being most proper for this Army, in order to settling the peace of this Kingdom; the General in pursuance of his first opinion moved again to storm the Town (for that he was certainly informed they had Victuals, and would be a work of time to gain it) It was unanimously (at last) agreed unto, that is, to storm it, this morning about two of the clock. Yesterday being the Lords day, Mr. Peter in the forenoon, and Mr. Bolls in the afternoon applied themselves to the encouragement of the Soldiers on any design they went about, to look upon Christ in all their actions, and to be valiant in his Cause; and about 7 at night our Foot being drawn out, and those that commanded the Storm, and Forlorn, Master Peter's (in the field) gave them an exhortation to do their duties, and God enabled them accordingly: For this morning, July 21. about two a clock, the General's Regiment began the storm, being seconded by others, and gave not over till they were atop of the Works with their Colours, and gained the pieces that played upon them, and let down the Bridge▪ whereupon Captain Reynolds, a valiant young Gentleman, entered with a Forlorn-Hope of horse, scoured the Streets, and beat them out of the hither Town into the further (our Pikes standing bravely to the horse.) This possessed the Enemy with that fear, being much perplexed at our taking the hither Town, and 500 prisoners that were part of those that maintained the hither Works: That the Enemy for the most part quitted the Line on the other side, where we were in hope the other part of our Force had stormed the Town, and entered; but they only gave an hot alarm while we stormed (it seems being not then ready for it (though the time agreed on) so we lost the carrying the whole Town this time: The prisoners being brought to the Church, above 500 in all, with Officers; 2 Lieutenant Colonels, they assured they wanted not Ammunition, nor Victuals, only meat for Horses and Cattle; we lost not 20 men in the storm, though in man's judgement, such was the fierceness of it for an hour, one would not think less than a 1000 could be slain; It was dark, and it so pleased God that they shot over for the most part. There was not one Officer of note slain, though many in person led on their men, and did gallantly, as Lieutenant Colonel Jackson, Lieutenant Colonel to the General, and Colonel Hewson of Colonel Pickerings Regiment. The Enemy being still hardened in heart, was so far from yielding, that with Granades and other things, they fired that part of the Town we were in, and hardly left 3 houses standing: this much incaged our men to see their villainy, and the General not a little troubled to see a Town destroyed, summoned it once more, sending his Trumpet about 5 in the evening, they within were so peremptory, that they would not so much as offer to come to a treaty, whereupon the General commanded the Town to be stormed on the other side, the morrow morning.  
July 22. Tuesday, at the dawning of the day the General (as the night before) in person gave order for the forces on this side, to give a fierce alarm with great and small shot, while they on the other side fell on, which on our side was done with great resolution, and but that the tide was up, we might alone have gained the Town. They on the other side, again failing to fall on, only giving an alarm. God by his providence so ordering it that something was wanting, and I hope in the Lord it was for the best, and for the preservation of many a man's life. For this day, the hot alarm working nothing upon them, which indeed was almost a second storm, the General was enraged against them, and lest the innocent should suffer among the nocent, sent a Trumpet to the Governor to let all women and children come out of the Town by 4 a clock this afternoon. And accordingly, the Lady Governess, (one too guilty of the misery of that place) the Lady Hawley, Mistress Marre and divers others came out, this being done, our great Guns and Morter-peices, with fireballs, hot Irons, etc. played against the Town, and instantly fired it in 3 places, the wind being great increased the fire, and all on a flame on a sudden, such a terror it wrought upon them, that Tom eliot came running out to the General for a parley. The General answered him, the Governor refused it the last night, and now that he had brought this misery on himself, the General would not admit of a Treaty, yet if he would submit to mercy he should have it, in the mean time till he returned a speedy and positive answer, if any Soldier in the Town offered to take off a slate on the house, or quench the fire, our Soldiers cried the cessation should be void, and we would take all advantages, this so amazed them that instantly they came out, and cried mercy for the Lords sake, so it was agreed on, and quarter they have for their lives, and have liberty to save the Town; but as those lately come out say, the Townsmen do not so fast quench the fire, as the Soldiers within in despite of this Army, set it on fire in fresh places. I heard Sir John Helena, Mr. Speke, and other of the Commissioners say, there are about 40 pieces of Ordnance, 40 hundred weight of Match, powder proportionable, victuals for 2000 soldiers for 4 Months; 500 we took the other day, above 1000 yet within; Commanders, Reformadoes, Gentlemen, and fat Priests, it's conceived above 200. Treasure in Plate, rich Jewels, etc. conceived, and estimated to be worth, at least, an 100000 pound, but all we feared would be consumed with the fire; The works of the Town, we found to be as strong as any in England, the Moat was very deep, yet our foot most fearlessly waded through, all the bridges failing, but one, and so we got over; It was also about 30 foot wide. This bearer saw the storm, before he came away, be pleased Sir, to move for a reward for his pains.  
July this 22. 1645. at 12 at night.   

July 25. 1645.  
ORdered by the Commons Assembled in Parliament, that this Letter concerning the taking of Bridgewater, be forthwith Printed and published.  
H. Elsing Cler. Parl. D. Com.   
There was taken in Bridgewater, as followeth; viz. Col. Windham, the Governor, Sir Hugh Windham, his son, Sir John Digbey, who (as it was reported) died in the Town, Sir Francis Courtney, Tho. eliot, and 2 or 3 other Knights, 6 Colonels, 14 Lieutenant Colonels, and Sergeant Majors, 100 Captains, Leivtenants, and other Officers, 40 Gentlemen of note, 42 Pieces of Ordnance, one of which was the Lord General's Warning-peice, taken in Cornwall, and another P. rupert's pocket-pistol, 5000 Arms, 800 Horse, 2000 Prisoners, 600 Oxen, 10 Load of Ammunition, 40 Tun of Match, all goring Carriages, bag and baggage, a 100000 pounds worth of treasure, 4 Month's provision in the Town.  
The Messenger that brought the news was called into the House of Commons, and had 30 pound given him as a reward. The Enemy quitted 3 small Garrisons near Bridgewater upon the taking thereof. And that which yet more excellently and eminently sweetens this great mercy unto us, 
A most exact & precious return of our Prayers.  was, that it pleased the Lord, who is the only true God that hears prayers, that this great blessing was granted unto us, upon Tuesday, July the 22. which was a day set apart in London, in a special manner to seek the Lord by prayer and humiliation, for this very thing, which, I say, the Lord gave in unto us on the same day we sought it, as a most certain and blessed return of Prayer. O, who (then) would not still, and for ever, trust such a gracious God and benign and bountiful Lord and Master?  
And here also I have fit opportunity to give my Reader one note more, touching this business of Bridgewater, viz. That one Mr. Peter's being sent from thence by Sir Tho. 
One Mr. Peter presented 3 Commissions to the Parliament, taken by Sir Tho. Fairfax in Bridgewater.  Fairfax, our most renowned General, with his own Letter to the Parliament, for the confirmation of the truth of the premises, touching the storming and winning of Bridgewater; He also brought with him 3 Commissions out of the West, which he then also presented to the House of Commons, The Contents of which were from the Prince, to one Mr. Philip's, a Gentleman of that Country, to raise a Regiment of horse, a Regiment of foot, and a Regiment of Dragoones; The Commissions were dated in January last.  
There were likewise other papers from the said Prince Charles, by which the whole design of the Clubmen was made manifest, 
The plot and design of the Clubmen discovered.  and how they were drawn into a snare to fight against the Parliament, and to gather themselves together in such a mutinous manner, and into disorderly bodies without any heads, till Commanders were sent and set over them. But, as in part ye have heard, it pleased the Lord to frustrate their policies and to bring their mischief upon their own heads, apparently seen by the late coming in of the Sommersetshire Clubmen, to the assistance of our noble General Sir Thomas, and their late frequent galling of goring Army. But now to proceed.  
See still, good Reader, the admirable and unexhaustible bounty of our good God; for, the taking of Bridgewater was not all the good news which this 26 day of July produced unto us; for, on the very same day, Sir Rowland Edgerton (who came with a Letter out of the North intimating the surrender of the strong Castle of Pontefract) was also called into the House of Commons, 
Pontefract Castle surrendered to the Parliament.  to relate the manner of it, which he did; and had thanks returned by the House, for his special service and diligence in it. When he came away our Soldiers had entered the Castle, wherein was exceeding great store of treasure, and much Ammunition. The particulars of the surrender of which said Castle was thus related in a Letter, sent from the Committee at York to the Parliament.  
To the Honourable William Lenthall Esquire, Speaker of the House of Commons.  
SIR,  
WE thought fit the last week to summon Pontefract-Castle, which caused the Enemy to desire a Treaty; Whereupon Colonel Wastell, Col. Copley, Col. Overton, Col. Bright, or any three of them were authorized to treat; and this day it was agreed that the Castle shall be delivered up to the use of the Parliament, to morrow at 8 of the clock in the morning, with all the things therein, save that the Officers were allowed to carry away what is properly their own, so that it exceed not what a cloak-bagge will contain; and the Soldiers to march to Newark, with 200 Muskets, and 200 Pikes. We consented to so good conditions, because the Plague was very hot in the Country, and especially in that Town; of which some of our Soldiers are dead. We are also in Treaty with Scarborough, which we hope shortly will be reduced. Thus much we thought fit to give you notice of, desiring the House may be acquainted therewith, From  
Your very affectionate Friends and humble Servants, Francis Pierrepont, Wilfrid Lawson, Henry Cholmley. York the 20 of July 1645.  
And upon the 28 instant, we received most certain intelligence by Letters out of the North, of the happy surrender also of the strong Castle of Scarborough, 
Scarborough Castle surrendered to the Parliament.]  to that most valiant and brave Commander and loyal Patriot Colonel Boynton, who lay before it, as Commander in chief of those forces, since the decease of that thrice noble and renowned Soldier and pious Cornelius, Sir John Meldrum. Which said strong Castle was surrendered on fair conditions. Viz. That Sir Hugh Cholmley, that wicked Apostate, should march out with his forces to Newark, if he pleased, or be transported into Holland, which, indeed, he desired. In the Castle he left great store of Arms and Ammunition, and 25 pieces of Ordnance.  
And about the 29 of this instant July came certain intelligence to the House of Commons in Parliament, by Letters from the Scottish Army at Ludbury in Wales; concerning the taking in of Cannon-Froom, a strong and considerable Garrison of the Enemies, which was taken by assault, 
Cannon Froom taken by our Brethren of Scotland.  in which storm at least 70 of the Enemies were slain, and but 8 of the Scots and some 20 hurt: The Governor, Colonel Barnold, was therein taken prisoner (and mortally wounded in the fight) together with Captain Brisk, Captain Houk, and 30 other prisoners; and all the Ordnance, Arms and Ammunition therein seized on for the King and Parliament. And the House of Commons had debate touching this and all the good service of our loyal Brethren of Scotland, and Ordered that a Letter of Thanks should be sent to the Earl of Leven, signed by Mr. Speaker in acknowledgement of his faithful Service for this Kingdom; and farther therefore Ordered that a Jewel of 500 pound should be with all convenient speed sent to the Earl of Leven, 
A jewel of 500 li. sent by the Parliament to General Leven as a badge of honour to him.  and be bestowed upon him as a badge of favour and respects from Both Houses of Parliament, to his Excellency, for the unwearyed and faithful services since his coming over with the Scots Army into this Kingdom.  
An excellent way, by gratitude to spur on the spirits, and fasten the affections of our Soldiers to go on in their fidelity and industry for the prosperous advance of the affairs of the Kingdom. And about the same time we received certain assurance by Letters out of the West, that the forces of that gallant Garrison of Lyme had taken Chadwick-House belonging to Count Arundel a great Papist, 
Chadwick house in the West taken.  a place that did much mischief and annoyance to those parts, and lay within 6 miles of Lyme; There were above an 100 prisoners and their Arms taken in it, 30 horse, 3 barrels of powder, and good store of other provisions and Ammunition.  
Much also about the same time we were certainly informed of the rendition and delivering up of Rabbi Castle in Durham, 
Rabbi Castle surrendered to the Parliament.  upon fair and easy Articles or conditions; viz. The Officers to march away with their Arms to Newark (that cage of unclean birds,) and the common Soldiers, with their lives, only upon their legs, with sticks in their hands. They left 300 good Arms behind them, and good store of powder and Ammunition.  
And upon the 30 of this instant July, (to make this Month a most completely victorious Month, 
bath also surrendered into the Parliaments possession, with the manner thereof.  indeed) it pleased the Lord to deliver up also into the Parliaments happy possession, the strong Garrison of the Town of bath; which was related in a Letter sent from thence by an eminent Commander and actor in the same, which, for the Readers better content and full satisfaction, I have here thought fit to insert and impart, as it was Printed and published by authority, which was as followeth.  
SIR,  
AS I gave you an account of the taking of Bridgewater, so God multiplying his mercies upon us, we having taken in Bath also, I shall briefly give you an account thereof: only I cannot omit something yet behind of Bridgewater, for we have found 6 pieces of Ordnance which the Enemy had hid, and there is left besides what was destroyed by the fire, 44 barrels of Gunpowder, and 4000 weight of Match.  
On Saturday last, Sir Thomas Fairfax marched out of Bridgewater, Lieutenant General Cromwell hath been ill, but God be thanked he mends, that night we marched to Marstock, about nine miles on the way to Sherburn, where we quartered that night and Sunday night.  
On the Lord's day, we heard that Rupert had been himself in person (the day before) at Bath with Sir Thomas Bridges, to encourage him to keep it against us, promising him relief in case he should be besieged.  
On Monday the 28 of July, 1645. the General marched to Sherborn, about 14 miles from Marstock: Major General massy was left further West: And the same day, viz. Monday, about 60 horse, (most Welsh) came from Prince Rupert to strengthen Bath; and other Officers with them to Govern the Town, because that Prince Rupert had found, when he was there two days before, that Sir Thomas Bridges was quite out of heart to keep it: for the very name of Sir Thomas Fairfax, strikes a terror to the Enemy. But when they were come into Bath, the Town cried out as one man, all against the Welsh: No Welsh, no Welsh: Neither did Sir Thomas Bridges take it well, that he should be displaced, and another put in; which caused a great division in the Town, that the Officers and Horse would not stay to dispute it: yet nevertheless some Welsh stayed in the Town, which did much displease both the Governor, Officers, Townsmen; yea, and the Garrison Soldiers also.  
On Tuesday, the General sent two Regiments of horse and two Troops of Dragoons, under the Command of Colonel Rich, to view and give account of the condition of the Garrison of Bath, then held by Sir Thomas Bridges for the King.  
The Army removed to Wells, Colonel Pickering is with a party before Sherborn, a nest of most mischievous vermin, under whom the Country hath much suffered, and by whom before we came thither some of our own messengers have been taken, and our Letters intercepted, and the Country do wholly complain against them for very great plunderers, and barbarous neighbours.  
We made on towards Bath, having no foot at all with us, only the aforesaid 2 Regiments of horse, and 2 Companies of Dragoones, and about an hour before Sunset, the South side was close beset, the Dragoones lay about Holliwell, and we kept them on the South, and on the West parts of the Town; But the North part of the Town lay open, for we came not to block them up, nor had we Forces to do it, then, present there: The Enemy might have gone away on the North part of the Town, in despite of all that we could do to hinder them, but God did so infatuate them, that they had not power, as in our former victories, so particularly in this taking of Bath, the hand of God was much seen for us.  
About Sunset we gained Holliwell; and placed our Dragoones within half Pistol shot of the Gate on the Bridge at Bath, where there was some skirmishing, and the Dragoones behaved themselves very gallantly. In the night the Enemy within took several Alarms; and were in great fear of us; I conceive they knew not our strength, only before had some intelligence of the advance of our Army.  
On this present Wednesday morning the Enemy heard of a party from Malmsbury, on the North side of them, but they were not considerable, but they were struck with such a fear that Sir Thomas Bridges sent a Messenger very early forth of Bath to us, to desire a parley, which we wondered at, so we presently held a parley with them, and by Sunrising had the Garrison of Bath delivered up to us, upon very good Conditions.  
1. All, both Officers and Soldiers to have quarter for their lives.  
2 That Sir Thomas Bridges, and all the Officers be permitted to march away to Bristol, without let or molestation.  
3 That Sir Thomas Bridges, and all other Field Officers, and Captains have liberty to march away with Horse, and Arms.  
4 That all Officers under the degree of Captains, march away without Arms (only staves in their hands) to Bristol.  
5 That Sir Thomas Bridges, with all the Officers aforesaid, do immediately march out of the Garrison, and surrender it to Colonel Rich, for the service of the Parliament.  
6 That all the Ordnance, Arms, and Ammunition, be surrendered also.  
7 The common Soldiers to be left all prisoners.  
All which was done, and we were possessed of the Garrison by break of the day; And truly you may think it a strange thing for horse to take a Town, and no foot within 15 miles of it, but you may see how God infatuates men, and possesseth them with a fear, that deprives them of wisdom and courage.  
Bath July 30. 1645.  
A List of what was taken in the Garrison of Bath, by Colonel Rich, on Wednesday, July 30. 1645. Left in the Town, according to the Articles aforesaid, 200 prisoners, which were 100 Garrison Soldiers, & 100 Welsh that came in but three hours before, into Bath. 200 Muskets, an 100 Pikes, 6 pieces of Ordnance, 10 barrels of Gunpounder; 10 barrels of other Ammunition; a great quantity of Match and Bullet; Sir Thomas Bridges his Standard Colours in the Royal Fort, 5 Colours besides; good store of Victual and other provisions; some Pistols and Swords; all Sir Thomas his bag and baggage, besides the Arms and provisions of the Townsmen; Together with divers Halbert-Round●eads and other weapons.  
This Garrison was of great consequence for the straitning of the passage to Bristol, whereof more in its more proper place.  
And that which makes this mercy much the sweeter and spiritually comfortable to us, is; that, as that former famous mercy of Bridgewater, was given in unto us, even whiles we were a praying for that mercy upon occasion of a special and extraordinary Fast Day: 
A most remarkable return, or rather, gracious prevention of Prayer.  So this likewise was unexpectedly cast into our laps, even in the very time and on the day of our Solemn set Monthly Fast Day; even as a gracious prevention of our Prayers, the Lord, heerin, most exactly verifying his own faithful promise by the Prophet; I am found of them that sought me not. 
Isa. 65. Ibid. ●.  And according to that also in the same Chapter. Before they call, I will answer; and whiles they are yet speaking, I will hear. And is not here a gracious God indeed? and is not our God, a bountifull-handed, and freehearted Master, indeed, who pays us our wages, before our work is done; and that, far more than we asked, or ever did or could deserve? yes, most certainly.  
And for the farther and clearer confirmation, ratification and admirable, yea, almost incredible, illustration of this truth, give me leave, 
A most singularly pious motion, as zealously as piously put into execution.  good Reader, to put thee in mind, how that much about the beginning of June last, it pleased the Lord to hint in the heart of a godly Minister (by name Mr. White, Preaching occasionally at reverend and religious Mr. Cases Church in Milkestreet in London) the impregnable, and even invincible power of Prayer, and of what precious consequence and concernment it might be for the advancement of God's glorious Cause, if God's people would be pleased every morning constantly to set apart, half an hour, or an hour at most, to seek the Lord by servant Prayer, for a special blessing upon the present great affairs, and negotiations of the Kingdom, both by Counsel and War, for the good of Church and State, 
The Monthly morning prayers in London religiously begun by reverend Mr. Case.  which hint, or holy alarm (as I may call it) reverend and religious, pious and painful Mr. Case, cheerfully laying hold on, presently began this godly work, and for the space of one whole Month, upheld it in his own Church most sacredly and sweetly; Whom, reverend and religious Mr. Calamy (as I take it) immediately succeeded all the next ensuing Month, and so this most blessed work hath continued and constantly been carried on, to the high honour and glory of our Prayer-hearing God, the wonderful good of the Kingdom; and the unexpressible joy and comfort of God's people especially, who have been partakers and actors in it; 
The blessed effects and precious returns of prayer, ever since the foresaid free will-offering of daily ●orning prayers began.  For, as it hath been most justly observed; O, what sweet and singular successes have been given to all our Armies ever since this pious and precious work began! not a Month, nay, a week, nay, scarcely 2 days have passed without a blessing on our Armies, if not a Victory, in one part of the Kingdom or other; Take, good Reader, but a succinct Summary of what God hath done, heerin, only since June and July now last passed; the rest I shall give thee afterward in their more proper places. As namely, First, That most famous and glorious victory at Naseby; The singular good success of our forces in Shropshire; The last relief of Taunton; The admirable re-taking of Leicester; Highwarth, and Ilchester; The late forementioned famous Victory obtained (by God's mighty assistance) through fire and water, at Lang-port and Burroughs, which famous victory we obtained that day month, whereon we obtained Naseby Victory; rare mercies, indeed, two famous Field-victories obtained in the space of one Month. The surrender of Carlisle; The reconcilement, and coming in of the Western Clubmen to the Parliaments party; The winning of strong Bridgewater; and strange and speedy obtaining of Bath; The gaining of the strong Castles of Pontefract, Scarborough, Cannon-Fr●●, Chadwick-house, and Rabbi Castle; In these Field-victories, and 10 or 11 strong Garrisons and Castles above 10000 prisoners taken, above 50 or 60 pieces of Ordnance; Much above 10000 Arms, and great plenty of Ammunition, bag and baggage; and all this done within the space of less than two Months. Tell me now then, good Reader, and speak thy conscience freely, do not all these rare and almost incredible mercies, clearly confirm the truth of what I have affirmed, that ever since the Throne of grace hath been so constantly and daily pressed with Prayer, our faithful Prayer-hearing God, hath admirably crowned his own works in us and for us! 
June and July last, justly entitled, Menses Mirabiles.  And say, I pray thee, may I not most justly style these two Months of June and July, Menses Mirabiles, two most deservedly admired Months? And hast thou not now again (good Reader) seen, and that in a most abundant measure, this our great Miracle, 
The Burning-Bush not consumed.  and amazing-wonder, even, The Burning-Bush, not only, not Consumed, but gloriously made to spread and flourish, in the midst of all the most fierce, and furious flames of Antichristian, Atheistical, and Maligaant wrath and outrageous fury? Yes certainly, I know thou wilt easily and truly acknowledge it; and that, if ever, here, was that faithful word of the Lord confirmed and made good, to his maligned Church and children. 
Isa. 54▪ 17.  Now weapon that is form against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgement, thou shalt condemn; This is the heritage of the Servants of the Lord, and their righteousness and salvation is only of the Lord. Not unto us, therefore, Lord, 
Psal. 115.  not unto us; but unto thy name alone, we give all the honour and glory of all these great and gracious deliverances, and many and mighty mercies. 
Psal. 32. 7.  Thou only hast thus encompassed us with Songs of deliverance. Thy mighty hand, and thy strong and outstretched arm, alone, hath gotten to thyself, and given to us, these great and glorious Victories; to thee alone therefore ●ee all the honour and glory, throughout all generations.  
And now to go on in the continuation and happy contemplation of this next Months most memorable Wonder of our Burning-Bush, the Parliaments Cause, 
August. 1645.  still un-consumed, still eminently prospered. And here I shall begin this Month's observation; herein, with that brave defeat given to the Enemy, by that valiant, active and faithful Commander, Captain Allen, near Stamford in Lincolnshire, which was as followeth:  
About the beginning of this Month of August, 1645. we received Letters of certain intelligence from Burleigh House, 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy by Captain Allen, near Stamford, in Lincolnshire.  in those parts, that a party of Newarkers being joined with Belvoyre Forces, to the number of about 300 in all, were gathering Taxes or Contribution Money about Stamford and the parts thereabout; whereof valiant Captain Allen having notice, he, with Captain Collins, drew forth all the Horse belonging to the Garrison, being in number not above 130. or 140. at most, whereof some were Dragoones which came after, who found the Enemy near Carlebie, retreating homeward with their Prisoners and Plunder, among whom they had taken an Alderman of Stamford, Sir Robert Dallison being their Commander in Chief, and they above two for one of ours, where a hot encounter was begun between them; for, our men notwithstanding, set upon them with admirable resolution, and were (as it must be confessed) at first gallantly received, but, I say, after a sharp and short dispute, it pleased God to do much for ours, and to make courageous Captain Allen a special instrument of a brave victory, his brave Soldiers taking more than ordinary courage, at his valiant and undaunted behaviour among them, insomuch that they utterly routed the Enemy, leaving dead and desperately wounded twelve or fourteen on the place, and took Prisoners Captain King and Captain Smith, took 51. Prisoners besides, and 80. Horse, whereof Sir Robert Dallisons was one, but himself had escaped; besides they took Major Coney, Captain Styles, Lieutenant Nicholsen, Lieutenant Thorp, Lieutenant Nicholas Mahum, Cornet Metcalf, Thomas Martin, Adrian Scroop, and some other Reformadoes, and rescued and brought safely home again above twenty honest Countrymen, whom they were carrying away prisoners; and thus, I say, they all returned triumphantly home again, with not a man of their own killed or mortally wounded, a rare mercy and preservation indeed; to God be all the glory thereof.  
About the fourth of this instant August, Letters were sent from the Army in the West, to the Parliament, and read in the House of Commons, concerning his Excellency's Sir Thomas Fairfaxes entering of the Town of Sherburne, and besieging of the Castle; and of a fight in that interim with the unruly Clubmen of Derset and Wiltshire, especially, who still remained very refractory and insolent, but were at last sound beaten into better behaviour, by renowned Lieut. 
The taking of all the King's Commissioners, as they sat in Counsel at Shaftsbury, and were brought Prisoners to Sherburne by Colonel Fleetwood.  Gen. Cromwell, as by his own Letter to the Parliament, was certified of and which notable bickering and brave defeat, I shall here give the Reader a summary and satisfactory account, in these two particular Relations following; and first concerning the surprising of the King's Commissioners at Shaftsbury, it was briefly thus: The General being marched from the Leaguer westward upon some intended designs that way, left Sherburne Castle still sufficiently besieged; and the Enemy seeing their friends straightened in the Castle, used means for some addresses to be made to the King for some course to be taken for their relief, and procured a Letter from the King to that purpose, which was sent to his Agents of the Clubmen, to gather strength for the raising of the Siege upon Sir Thomas Fairfaxes advance. The Leaders of the Clubmen receiving these Letters from the King, met at Shaftsbury on Saturday the 2 of August, 1645. to consult what course to take for the effecting thereof, having their Instructions ready; some observations were made, that they were not full enough for the carrying on of this design, and that therefore three more might be added to them. But in the mean while our wise and vigilant General, Sir Thomas, hearing of the proceedings of these Clubmen, and doubting that if they should go on, they might much impede the proceedings of those whom he had left at Sherburne Castle, for the taking thereof, where were in that Leagner Colonel Pickering with a Brigade of 2000 Foot, and Colonel Whaleys Regiment of Horse, to whom the General returned the same day, (being Saturday) to Sherburne, whether being come, and having taken up his head Quarter there, he presently from thence sent away Colonel Fleetwood, with his own and Colonel Whaleys Regiment of Horse, to speed to Shaftsbury, so to oppose and destroy the King's Commissioners Jesuitical design there against us: With which two Regiments Colonel Fleetwood forthwith marched to Shaftsbury, dividing his Forces, that so, when he came near the said Town, he might, and did, surround it, as a Guard with his Forces, whilst the rest marched into Shaftsbury, where the Commissioners were then sitting, and thus they surprised them all, no● one of them escaping, whom thus taken, they brought Prisoners to Sherburne, where they were all examined one by one, and our as virtuous as valiant General, 
His Excellencies most excellent demeanour with the King's Commissioners in their Examinations.  learnedly and religiously confuted them all one by one, the Clergy by Scripture, and his Advocate Young by Law; showing them plainly how they themselves had dangerously acted contrary to their own principles and pretences. The List of all their names was also sent together with this relation, the particular mention whereof, for brevity's sake, I forbear; the total number of them was full 50. some of the chiefest of them were these, Master John Saintlo, Master Richard Buckridge, Master William Smith, Master Jarvis, Master Hollis, Master Lovel, Master Estmond, Master Goodwin, Master Davis, etc. and divers of them most pestilently Malignant Priests or Ministers.  
And at the foresaid time, we received the certain intelligence of the routing and dispersing of 2500. of the forementioned Clubmen, by valiant Lieutenant General Cromwell, which were gathered in a body in battalia upon Hambleton-Hill, near Blanford, which in brief was performed as followeth;  
The King's Commissioners, 
The routing and dispersing of 2500 Clubmen, by Lieutenant General Cromwell, upon Hambleton Hill, near Blanford in the West.  who were the heads and Ringleaders, of the refractory Clubmen of Dorcester and Wilts, being all surprised and imprisoned, as was before related: The said Clubmen most peremptorily and insolently sent (upon the Lord's Day at night) to have their Leaders re-delivered unto them, and caused their Bells to be rung in all places, and Alarms to be given in their ●●all way of rising, and about 2500. of them instantly met in a body at Hambleton-hill, with their Colours displayed, which were all white (for they had gotten white silken Colours) and their Drums and several Weapons, Muskets, Pikes, Pistols, Birding-Peeces, Bills, Halberds, and many other several Weapons, and had thus drawn themselves into a Body. Whereupon Lieutenant General Cromwell, with 500 Dragoones, and 500 more in a reserve to march after them, marched out from the Leaguer toward these untoward Clubmen, and facing them, they drew into Battalia, and stood in a great and ancient Roman-work, which is upon those hills, and admitted a Parley. Lieutenant General Cromwell demanded of them the reason of their rising. They answered, To redeem their Heads, or Leaders, requiring their Commissioners to be delivered to them, and then they said they would return home, but without their Leaders they would not disband.  
Lieutenant General Cromwell returned answer, That they had them Prisoners; And that they were to answer for what they had done; and that they were at Sherburne with the General, and made a very full and worthy speech to them, to persuade them to be wise, and return home in peace; showing them how they have been misled by a company of Malignants: and declaring what care the General had taken to secure their Estates, and settle peace amongst them, and what comfort they found that submitted thereunto.  
But the Clubmen were very unruly; vapouring, and protesting punctually to rescue and redeem their Leaders, (and indeed they are the very notorious Ringleaders of the Malignants of these parts) but the moderate party (especially about Sommersetshire) do much deride their folly.  
Lieutenant General Cromwell took great pains to appease them without shedding of blood, but nothing would satisfy them, but to have (their Leaders) their Heads, delivered to them.  
Whereupon, the Clubmen being in Battalia, Lieutenant General Cromwell drew up his Forces, and charged them with the 500 Dragoons, and slew some 12 of them, wounded many, took some 200 or 300 Prisoners, of the most notorious of them, and routed and dispersed the rest, who fled all home, leaving their Colours and their Arms behind them. And we hope that now they will no more trouble us again.  
A List of what was taken from the Clubmen in the fight between them and Lieutenant General Cromwell at Hambleton-hill on Monday the 4. of August, 1645. TWo thousand five hundred routed. Three hundred taken Prisoners. Twelve slain upon the place. Many wounded. Two thousand Arms of all sorts, viz. Muskets, Pikes, Pistols, Halberds, Birding-peeces, etc. All their Colours, and Drums, and other Baggage. On our side we lost only three men and some wounded.  
About the vl of this instant we had certain intelligence out of Wales, that that most valiant, active, and faithful Commander in those parts Major General Laughorne, was also very sucessefull in those parts of Wales; 
A famous defeat given to the Enemy in Wales, by valiant and faithful Major General Laughhorne.  and understanding that the King's designs and hopes were now quite frustrated of receiving any more strength out of Wales, and that therefore the ravenous Royalists, yet residing there in Garrisons, being out of hope of further help and subsistence, than what they had or could get by plunder, they began therefore to consume and destroy the Inhabitants hopes of their then present Harvest, that thus nothing might be left undone (as much as in them lay) to make Wales as miserable as the West, and truly unhappy indeed: Their Commanders in Chief were Major General straddling, and Major Edg●●ton: But this, I say, the noble Major General understanding, he came with his Forces, and fell upon them (at Colby-Moore, within three miles of Haverford-West, or thereabout) as they were firing the Country and Corn, 
The Prisoners and Prizes taken at Colby-Moore.  and that with such success and courage, that after a sharp encounter he enforced the Enemy to fly with the loss of at least 150 of their men, who were slain upon the place, and in rout and pursuit of whom, took three Colonels, twelve Majors, forty other Officers, 700 Prisoners, four Pieces of Ordnance, five Barrels of Powder, 1000 Arms, and all the Carriages that the Enemy had. There were hearty thanks given to Almighty God, for the great Victory, by Order from the Parliament, upon the next ensuing Lords Day, in all the Churches in London. And indeed this brave Victory was the more remarkable, because our Forces in those parts had been a long time before kept very low, and the Country had suffered much by the violence and fury of Gerrard. But now this most active, loyal, and valiant Major General, prosecuting this his Victory and good Success, took also the Town and Castle of Haverford-West, 
Haverford-West stormed & taken, both Town and Castle.  by a speedy storming of it, and in it 120 Common Soldiers, 20 Commanders and Officers in Arms, whereof one Colonel, one Lieutenant Colonel, and one Major, also one Piece of Ordnance, and about 150 Arms.  
About the 12 of this instant August, we also received certain information by Letters from our most renowned General, Sir Thomas Fairfax, That about the tenth instant, that strong Castle of Sherburne, 
Sherburne Castle stormed and taken by renowned Sir Tho. Fairfax.  which the Enemy had vaunted would continue and hold out a half years' Siege at least, was most valiantly stormed, and the next day taken, the manner whereof, was in brief as followeth; Upon the tenth, as aforesaid, our great Guns began to batter the strong wall of the Castle, between the two lesser Towers thereof, and had soon beaten down one of them, and before six of the Clock that night, had made a breach in the Wall, so as twelve a breast might enter, whereupon the most noble General sent a Drum with a third Summons, to surrender the Castle, signifying with all, That if he were put to a Storm, they within would be left inexcusable: But Sir Lewis Dives (than Governor) detained the Drum, and when the Drum spoke some words (as Sir Lewis thought) saucily, he told him he was in the presence of a better man than his General, and sent no Answer till two of the clock on Friday morning, and then he sent a Drum with this Message in writing to the General.  
Sir Lewis Dives his Answer to the General's Summons.  
SIR, I must acknowledge the advantage you have of me, by being Master of my Walls, and that you may think me obstinate without reason, I have sent this Drum unto you, to let you know, that if I may have such Conditions from you, as are fit for a soldier and a Gentleman, with honour to accept, I shall surrender this Castle into your hands, otherwise I shall esteem it a far greater happiness to bury my bones in it, and the same resolution have all those that are with me. And give me leave to add this, That your Victory will be crowned with more honour by granting it, than you will gain glory by the winning it, with the loss of so much blood as it will cost.  
I am your Servant Lewis Dives Sherburne Castle, August 15. 1645.  
Upon the receipt of this Answer, our men presently prepared to storm the Castle, which they performed with so much courage and resolution, that instantly twenty of the Cabs leapt over the Wall, and came to our men, crying for Quarter, the rest of them within, being as much amazed as the former, cried out for a Parley, but than it was too late, only Quarter was given them for their lives, and so our men entered the Castle, where they took Prisoners, 
The Prisoners and prizes taken.  Sir Lewis Dives, Colonel and Governor of the Castle, together with his Lady, Colonel Sir John Strangewaies, one of the Lord Pawlets Sons; one Sir Cotton Knight, and Lieutenant Colonel Russell an Attorney, and sometime Sub-Governour of Weymouth for the King, two Apostate Members of the House of Commons, divers of the Commissioners of Array, 9 Captains, 11 Lieutenants, 3 Cornets, 5 Colours, 55 Malignant Gentlemen of Wiltshire, and Dorsetshire, 10 Malignant Priests, 400 Common Soldiers, above 800 Arms, 16 Pieces of Ordnance, a Mortar Piece, and a Murderer, 60 Barrels of powder, great store of Provisions and rich householdstuff, together with other good plunder, which the Enemy had before taken from the Country, all which plunder our brave Soldiers merrily divided among them, and that most deservedly. There were few of the Enemies slain in the storm, and as few left unstript of what was worth anything, 
The slain on our side.  after the Storm. We lost not above 94 men in all this siege and taking of the Castle, whereof Captain Dove, and two other Captains slain with him.  
About Aug. 16. our most pious Parliamentary Worthy's religiously Ordered, That (for the further advancement of the work of Reformation in matters of Religion) First, That no Bibles should be vented in this Kingdom, 
The Parliaments most pious and prudent care for the Reformation of matters in Religion.  without the perusal of the Assembly of Divines, or such other persons as should be thereunto appointed▪ Also, That all the Knights and Burgesses of the several Counties of the Kingdom, within the power of the Parliament, should send printed Books of the Directory for God's Worship, fairly bound up in Leather, unto the Committees of Parliament, residing in the respective Counties of England and Wales, who should with all convenient speed send the same, and cause them to be delivered unto the several respective Constables, or other Officers, of all the several Parishes, and respective Chappalries and Donatives within the Kingdom of England and Dominion of Wales, and the Port and Town of Barwick, that is to say, one Book to the respective Constables, and other Officers of every one of the said Parishes, Chappelries and Donatives, to be paid for by the Inhabitants within the said several Parishes and Chappelries.  
And it is further hereby Ordained by the said Lords and Commons, That if any person or persons whatsoever shall at any time or times hereafter abuse or cause the aforesaid Book of Common Prayer to be abused in any Church, chapel, or public place of Worship, or in any private place or Family, within the Kingdom of England or Dominion of Wales, or Port and Town of Barwick, that then every such person so offending therein, shall for the first offence forfeit and pay the sum of five pounds of lawful English money, for the second offence the sum of ten pounds, and for the third offence shall suffer one whole years imprisonment, without Bail or Main prize.  
And it is further Ordained, that every Minister which shall not henceforth pursue and observe the Directory for Public Worship, according to the true intent and meaning thereof, in all exercises of the public Worship of God within this Realm of England, and dominion of Wales, and within the Town and Port of Barwick, shall for every time that he shall so offend, lose and forseit the sum of forty shillings of lawful English money. And that what person soever shall with intent to bring the said Directory into contempt and neglect, or to raise opposition against it, Preach, Write, Print, or cause to be written or printed, any thing in the derogation or depraving of the said Book, or any thing therein contained, or any part thereof, shall lose and forfeit for every such offence, such a sum of money, as shall at the time of his conviction be thought fit to be imposed upon him, by those before whom he shall have his trial, provided, that it be not less than five pounds, and not exceeding the sum of fifty pounds.  
And be it further ordained by the authority aforesaid, That no person or persons shall be at any time hereafter impeached or molested, of, or for any of the offences last above mentioned, hereafter to be committed or done contrary to this Ordinance, unless he or they so offending be thereof indicted at the next or second general Sessions, to be holden before any Justices of Oyre, and determiner, or Justices of Assize, or before the Justices of Peace at their general quarter Sessions next after any offence committed or done contrary to the tenor of this Ordinance, and that he be thereby lawfully convicted according to the Laws of this Realm, by verdict of twelve men, or by his own confession.  
It is further Ordered and Ordained, That all Common Prayer Books remaining in Parish Churches and Chapels, shall within a month after the publishing of this Ordinance, be by the Churchwardens, or Constables of the respective Parishes, under the penalty of forty shillings, to be employed as aforesaid, carried unto the Committees of the respective Counties, where they shall be found, to be disposed of as the Parliament shall direct.  
And about the 20. of this instant, we were for certain informed by Letters out of the Northern parts of the Kingdom, that about this time the English and Scottish forces were very considerable in Horse and Dragoones, for the preservation of those parts from the rage of the Royalists, viz. That Lieutenant General Lesley with 5000. 
The good condition of our Forces in the North, and the King's Plot there frustrated, and his Forces defeated.  Horse and Dragoons, valiant Col. Ros●●er with 1000 and the Nottingham, Derby, and Staffordshire Horse joined with Major General Poyntz, had their Rendezvouz near Doncaster, and were complete 10000 Horse and Dragoones, their foot being left at York, for their better safety and security; the King's great desire and design being at this time (as they were certainly informed) to get further into the North, but valiant and vigilant Major General Poyntz took special care to prevent him, and to secure the passages at Ferribridge, so to impede his progress that way; yet at last the King was come on as near as Doncaster, and had made Proclamation that all should come in to him to go along with him to York, where he hoped to make a second Nest to nestle his devouring Cormorants again, but finding no appearance answerable to his expectation, but chose all our Forces ready to receive him, he therefore made a speedy retreat back again, in which his retreat a party of our Horse fell fiercely upon his rear, and ferretted them sound, where they took the Lord Harris, a Papist, Prisoner, together with 100 Horse, and divers Prisoners, and forced the King to fly away thence to Newarke.  
About the 24. of this instant, the prime Prisoners taken by our renowned General Sir Thomas Fairfax at Sherburn-Castle were brought to London by Sea, 
Sir Lewis Dives, and Sir George Strangwaies brought prisoners to the Parliament  and two of the chief of them, were (as this day) brought to the House of Commons, viz. Sir Lewis Dives, late Governor of Sherburn Castle for the King, and Col. Sir George Strangewaies formerly a Member of that House, who were by a strong Guard attended, and at last caused to come into the House to the Bar, where Dives demeaned himself very supercilliously and proudly, seeming to refuse to kneel on both his knees till he was compelled unto it; and then the Speaker of the House of Commons, told him, that he was much to be lamented, who notwithstanding that he had been a means to shed so much innocent blood, and had committed so much Treason against his native Kingdom, endeavouring to destroy the same, and helping (as much as in him was) to draw the King from his Parliament; and yet that his heart should no more (nay not at all) relent, but that he looked before that Honourable presence, as one whom God had given over to hardness of heart, and impudence of carriage; he therefore for his Treasons pronounced the Commitment of him, and of Sir George Strangewaies, to the Tower of London, there to remain Prisoners till Justice should farther proceed against them.  
And about the 28. instant, his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, our most renowned General, having his Leaguer, now before Bristol, we had certain intelligence from them, that the Clubmen of Gloucester, and Somersetshire expressed much affection to Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Army, 
Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Leaguer before Bristol, and the taking of the strong Fort called Ports-head point.  and afforded them a gallant Party, for the taking of this brave and strong City of Bristol; and that Somersetshire had raised at least 2000 men, and were joined with Sir Thomas in the taking of the strong Fort called Portshead-point, the true and exact manner whereof being related by a Letter sent from an eminent Commander in the said Leaguer, to the Speaker of the House of Commons in Parliament; I have here thought fit for the Readers better content and satisfaction to insert the said Letter verbatim, as it was printed and published by authority, which was as followeth.  
To the Right Honourable William Lenthall Esquire, Speaker of the Honourable House of Commons.  
SIR, I wrote unto you the other day in what posture we were before the Town, we have since encroached upon our Enemies, and in many places got within Pistol shot, and have had hot encounters with them: On Monday morning last about four a Clock they sallied out again, and we watched how to catch them, and that evening we took Sir Bernard Ashley the best Soldier in Bristol, and killed Col. Daniel, for he had seven bullets in his body, but being so near the works, we durst not alight to bring off his body, Sir Bernard Ashley we have Prisoner, though sore wounded: The other day, at our first coming, we shot Sir Richard Crane (another great favourer of Ruports) through the thigh, of which he lies dangerously ill, the party of Foot under Lieutenant Col. Kempson, hath taken the strong Fort of Ports-head point, and therein ●ix pieces of Ordnance, and one Demyculvering, so our Ships may come in freely into Severne; we have also seized on one Ship in Avon, with twelve piece of Ordnance. The last night we were all up in Arms, expecting a Sally out, of one thousand Horse upon our Guards, being extreme wet weather all night long; the Enemy drew out under their Works, but their Scouts discerning our readiness came not on, besides they had a most fierce Alarm, Ports-head point was taken, and the Parliament Ships coming up the River, the Towns men were dismayed, and threw down Arms, Rupert imprisoned some of them, and thus is the condition of affairs for the present. We had by this raised as good Works against theirs as may be, and if Goring come on of the other hand: But singly, either of them we fear not. I am in great haste, and can write no more but that I am, Sir,  
Your most humble servant. From before Bristol, Aug. 28. 1645. at 4. in the afternoon.  
Colonel Morgan is before Barklay Castle, and the General hath sent a Regiment of Horse to his assistance. Our Horse before Bristol have done five days and night's duty, never coming off the Field.  
And about the 30 of this instant August, came certain information by Letters to London from Redding, that a Party of about 120 Horse from Wallingford and Dennington, came into those parts to gather Contribution Money, even within a mile of Redding; Colonel Baxter the Governor of Reading, with Captain Pile, and as many Horse and Dragoones of their Troops as could be presently made ready, which was not above 30 or 40 in all at most, understanding thereof, sent to Colonel Moor and Captain Burroughs, 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy near Redding.  who then had about 100 of Abington Horse quartered also at Redding to prepare for his Reserve. The Enemy upon their March homeward beware closely followed by the Governors' party whose forlorn hope forced the Enemies Rear guard to their body at which their body faced about, and caused our forlorn to retreat, and they perceiving our number to be but small, pursued the Governor through and through, yet he had but one man slain, and eight of his men were taken Prisoners, and the Governors' sword was cut off to the hilt, for upon the Enemies facing about upon ours, the Governor seeing the Enemy's advantage to be at least four to one, did forbear an engagement, till he had sent one of his Captains to know how far behind the Abington horse were, 
Ours worsted at the first by false intelligence.  and to give them the Word, who returned to the Governor, and told him they were at hand, which proved otherwise, to the hazard of the Governor, and his whole party, then engaging, as you have heard. See here therefore how much conducing to the welfare of martial affairs, true intelligence is, and how the want of it proves destructive. In this interim, at length, and seasonably enough, came in Colonel Moor, and Captain Burroughs with their horse, and they, now, with the Governors' Horse and Dragoones, being rallied again, very fiercely charged the Enemy again, 
The Enemy quite routed and a brave victory obtained.  bravely routed them, regained their prisoners, took about 50 Horse of the Enemies, 60 Arms, 23 Prisoners, one Major, one Captain, and sorely wounded another, and slew 13 of them on the ground, and in their pursuit, which ours had upon them for at least five miles: The rest escaped by flight to tell their fellows at Wallingford what a brave prize and purchase they had got. We had but that one man slain upon the place, forementioned, and two died since of their wounds. The Governor, Colonel Moor, Captain Pile, Captain Burroughs, and Quartermaster Barker, behaved themselves with much gallantry in this business, and generally the Soldiers fought all of them very bravely; but most justly to God be all the praise of the victory.  
And about the same time we also understood for certain, by Letters out of Shropshire, That the brave and active Garrison of Shrewsbury fell also upon a party of the Enemies at Bishops-Castle, 
Valiant Major Fenicks good Service at Bishop's Castle in Shropshire.  in that County, as they were hot in plundering the Fair, which was then kept there, whom they bravely and suddenly routed, rescued all the plunder, took 200 of the Enemy's Horse, and many Prisoners: This Service was performed by valiant Major Fenick, and the Enemy's party was from Ludlow and Bridge-North.  
And here, now, good Reader, let me desire thee to make a little pause and parley with thy heart and soul, in the serious contemplation and consideration of the rich and rare mercies of this month also, 
The Burning-Bush unconsumed.  wherein thou hast most remarkably seen the faithful performance of this our still-continued mighty & marvellous wonder of The Burning-Bush unconsumed, or rather indeed, more and more prospered and preserved, in the midst of such, and so many fierce & furious flashes and flames of mischief and malignity, in outrageous opposition against it, which hath been most abundantly demonstrated, both in Captain Allens brave defeat given to the Enemy near Stamford in Lincolnshire: In the surprisal of the King's Commissioners at Shaftsbury by Colonel Fleetwood: In the routing of the Clubmen by Lieutenant General Cromwell: In the famous defeat given to the Enemy in Wales, by Major General Laughorne: In the storming and taking of Sherburne Castle, by renowned Sir Thomas Fairfax: In the Parliaments pious and prudent care for the reformation of matters in Religion: In the good condition of our Forces in the North, whereby a dangerous design of the Kings was frustrated and his forces defeated: In our most noble and renowned Generals winning of that strong Fort at Bristol, called Ports-head Point: In that brave, but dangerous defeat given to the Enemy near Reading: And Major Fenicks defeat given to the Enemy at Bishops-Castle in Shropshire: All which rare Parliamentary Mercies, bestowed on us, and sore pinches and pulls thus from time to time, put upon and wrested from our vile and vexatious Enemies: O how ought the gracious and grateful recordation and consideration thereof, work upon our spirits, and affect our souls with unexpressible gratitude to our God, the most merciful, wise, and wonderful worker of them, and cause us to break forth with holy David, that sweet singer of Israel, into this holy ecstasy of exultation and rejoicing, sing and say, 
Psal. 6●. 6, 7. 8,  Our souls wait, yea wait only upon God, for our expectation is only from him. He only is our rock and our salvation, he is our defence, whereby we are not moved. In the Lord our God is our salvation, and our only glory, yea he is the rock of our strength, and our righteousness, therefore will we trust in him still, and at all times. And thus now to proceed, 
September. 1645.   
And here I shall begin the yet further sight and survey of this next ensuing Months marvel, and most worthily to be admired wonder of this our still unconsumed Burning-Bush, in representing to the Reader in the first place, an excellent Declaration, set forth and sent into Wales, by the wisdom and providence of the most renowned Lords and Commons in Parliament, about the beginning of this Month of September, 1645. providently (I say) and prudently to undeceive that pitifully misled and abused people, 
A most foul and false projected slander of the Royaiists to abuse the Parliament and people of Wales.  who had been over-persuaded, and made to believe, all along, and all over that whole Dominion and Principality, even as much as possibly might be, by the lying and irreligious Royalists, That the Parliament mainly endeavoured to make a Conquest of their Country, and to gratify our Brethren of Scotland with the total donation of it unto them, as a reward and requital of their assistance in this present War; thus, most maliciously and falsely to slander the Parliaments proceedings, and thus the more to exasperate the thoughts, and stir and stimulate the spirits and spleen of the naturally resty Welshmen, against the Parliament; which said Declaration, for the Readers better content and satisfaction, and for the excellency of the thing itself, I have here thought fit to insert it, as it was printed and published by Authority, which was as followeth.  

A Declaration of the Lords and Commons Assembled in Parliament.  
Die Lunae 8. Septemb. 1645.  
WHereas the Lords and Commons in Parliament assembled, are informed that by the subtle and malicious practices of a Popish and Malignant party, opposite to God's Cause and the prosperity of this Kingdom, it hath been insinuated and infused into sundry of the Inhabitants of his Majesty's Do●●inions of Wales, to dis-affect and poison them against the proceedings of the Parliament, That it was their intention to gratify our Brethren of Scotland for their assistance in these our extremities drawn upon us by the said Popish and Malignant party, with the Estates and Lands of the said Inhabitants, which is so absolutely false, that it never entered into their thoughts, and consequently needed no refutation: Yet that the Subjects of this Kingdom, inhabiting within the said Dominion of Wales, may receive full and befiting satisfaction, and We and our Brethren of Scotland Vindication against so foul and so barbarous an aspersion, the said Lords and Commons do testify and declare to all persons whatsoever, to whom these shall come, That they do much abhor and detest an Act of such Injustice and Inhumanity, and that they are so far from doing any such thing, that if any of the said Inhabitants upon due sense and sorrow for any of their Crimes and Misdemeanours committed against the present Parliament, shall submit and apply themselves by humble Petition to the Parliament, and desire the favour of, and reconciliation to the same, the said Lords and Commons will be thereupon ready to receive any and all such, upon such reasonable terms as the wisdom of the Parliament shall think in some measure proportionable to the qualities and degrees of their several offences, and thereupon yield them all such aid and assistance, as they shall reasonably desire, and the Parliament be able to 〈◊〉 Provided always that this shall not extend to any that are excepted from pardon within the Propositions lately presented to his Majesty for a safe and well grounded Peace.  
Jo. Brown Cler. Parliamentorum.   
And here now the Reader may be pleased to remember, That about the latter end of the last Month's Relations I intimated our renowned Gener●●s beleaguering and besieging of the strong Town or City of Bristol, and what a good beginning he had made there, in taking from the Enemy that strong Fort of theirs, called Portshead-Point, And now about the ninth of this instant September, as we were credibly informed, our noble and pious General, Sir Thomas Fairfax, resolving to set effectually upon the work of winning and subduing the City to the Parliaments just obedience, for the better and more happy and hopeful effecting whereof, he most rightly and religiously resolved first to seek the Lords assistance therein, 
A day of Humiliation in the General's Army before the storming of Bristol.  and therefore appointed a day of holy humiliation to be solemnly kept throughout the whole Army, which was accordingly performed▪ and then they all prepared to storm the City suddenly, the Somerset Clubmen having at a meeting, at a place called Dunderry, declared themselves with great alacrity and readiness to give Sir Thomas their best assistance, for the regaining of this said City of Bristol. But before the storming thereof you must take notice, that our most noble and renowned General had sent his Summons to Prince Rupert, 
Bristol summoned.  the then Governor thereof, to have it surrendered unto him on fair and ●itting Articles or Propositions, which Rupert put off with tricks and delays, and desires to send, first to his Uncle the King, ere he would or could resolve aught therein: Thus showing himself in his old proper Colours, pretending one thing and intending another, only to gain time till his Counter-Scarffs, and inner-Lines were fully finished, about which (at that time) they were very active and nimble (as indeed it beloved them) day and night. But to be brief, all relations to a true Treaty being broken off, and in this the Prince and his Confederates within, being left inexcusable, for refusing the fair and honourable Conditions which noble Sir Thomas, like himself, had tendered unto him, very fair, I say, and honourable; and therefore the blood that was to be shed and inevitably spilt to be challenged at their hands, and laid on their heads; It was now therefore (I say) peremptorily resolved on Tuesday night, being the 9 of Septemb▪ 
Bristol stormed, and the manner thereof.  to storm the City, the manner of the storm was before thus agreed on, ●●lon Welden was to have one Brigade, consisting of four T●unton Regiments, viz. Colonel Welden, Col. Twoolds●y, Colonel Fort●soues, and Colonel Herbert's Regiments, who were to make good Somersetshire side, and to storm in three places. Col. Montague to command the General's Brigade, consisting of the Generals, Col. Mountagues, Col. Pickerings, and Sir Hardresse Willers. Regiments, to storm on both sides of Lawford Gate, Col. Rainsborough had another Brigade, consisting of his own, Major General Skippons, Colonel Hammonds, Col. Birches, and Col. Barkleys' Regiments, to storm on this side the River Froom, beginning on the right hand of the Sally-Port, 
The disposal of all the Brigades and Regiments about Bristol.  up to Priors-Fort, and 200. of this Brigade to go in Boats with the Seamen, to storm Water-Port. One regiment of Foot and another of Horse to be moving up and down in the Closes before the Royall-Fort, to alarm them; and one Regiment of Dragoones, with two of Horse, to attempt the Line and Works by Clifton and Washingtons' breach. The manner of the storm being thus agreed on Tuesday at night, all the Army, Horse and Foot, round the City, were set in a posture to fall on; the signs to give notice when the storm should begin, were by kindling a fire of straw, and shooting of four great Guns. Our Word, 
The Word. Col. Rainsboroughs brave service on his part.  during the Storm, was David, and after the Line was entered, the Word was, The Lord of Hosts. About two of the Clock in the morning the storm began, the Soldiers shouted for joy, the service was very hot for a time, especially with Colonel Rainsboroughs Brigade, who with a party of his Forces spent 3 hours in the storming of Pryers-Fort, a place of great advantage, which piece of Service was as bravely performed, as ever thing was done by man, in regard they were put to the utmost, by scaling-Ladders to win the Fort. They cut in pieces most of the Forces within this Fort, and made the rest unserviceable, and gave no Quarter to Major Price in the Fort. This Brigade took four great Pieces in this Fort, 
And Colonel Mountagues on his part.  and two more in a Redoubt, and Colonel Mountagues Brigade took sixteen Pieces in the several Works and Halfmoons which they gained by storming. The other Brigade under Colonel Welden, fell on Somersetshire side, with a great deal of resolution, but when the Ladders were set to the Works, they were too short, the moat being very deep, so that they only alarmed the Enemy. The Clubmen who fell on at Bedminster, much terrified the Enemy. Our loss of men was inconsiderable, yea, almost not credible, considering their fierce brunts. And truly in Colonel Rainsborough and Colonel Mountagues Brigade, not forty men were lost, and our Horse entered with our Foot, the Pioners having thrown down the Line, and beaten off the Enemy's Horse, and took Colonel Taylor, formerly a Member of Parliament, being mortally wounded. We had on our part Captain Ireton sore wounded, who was a Captain of Horse, an honest and stout man, Major Bethel was slightly wounded; Major Saintleger, and two Majors more of the Enemy's part, and divers others were taken Prisoners. Now ours, by this time, being thus made masters of the most part of the Town, 
Almost all the Town taken.  and all their Works, but only the Main Fort; Rupert fled into the Castle, and ours being about to plant Ordnance against it, 
Rupert being fled into the Castle, desires a Parley.  on Wednesday morning about eight of the clock, Rupert sent to desire a Parley, but the Soldiers were generally unwilling to hearken to any terms of Treaty, since, now, they were in so fair a way of taking all by force; but the thrice noble General, out of his generous and noble disposition, and resolution to mercy, rather than to see so brave a Town burnt to ashes and destroyed (Rupert having already fired it in three places, and vowed to burn all ere he would yield without Articles of agreement) satisfied his Soldiers, and condescended to a Treaty, which by six of the clock on that Wednesday night produced too honourable terms for such a mischievous and bloody Prince: 
The Town and Castle of Bristol surrendered on Articles of Agreement.  Colonel Murrey and another Knight being sent to the General, as Hostages for the performance of those Articles, which were about ten in number, which here, for brevity's sake, I omit particularly to mention; and Sir Robert Pie, and Sir Hardresse Waller were sent as Hostages to the Prince. And things on both sides yielded to and promised being exactly performed accordingly, the Prince and his train issued out of Bristol, accompanied some part of his way by our renowned General, and ours immediately possessed of the City and Castle, with all therein, save what Rupert was permitted on the Agreement to have with him; 
Intelligence of the taking of Bristol brought to the Parliament, & the Messengers rewarded.  all which premises were confirmed by the testimony and intelligence of three several Messengers, sent to London immediately to the Parliament, with Letters from Bristol, to the House of Commons, which Messengers had, by Order of the House, 60 l. to be divided among them, for their reward, in bringing this most welcome news to the Parliament. And it was ordered, That on the next ensuing Lords Day, deserved and bounden thanks should be given to Almighty God, in all Parish Churches and Chapels within the Line of Communication and Bills of Mortality in London and Westminster, 
Thanks returned to God for the thus regaining of the City of Bristol.  for the great and good success which God had given to our Forces under the Command of Sir Thomas Fairfax, in taking the City of Bristol, with the Castle and Forts thereof. And on the Lord's Day fortnight following, Octob. 5. like bounden thanks to be given also in all the Parish Churches within the power of the Parliament, thorough all England and Wales.  
Our most renowned General, upon his return from Rupert, viewed the Royal Fort in Bristol, which he esteemed one of the bravest citadels in all England, in it were 24 Pieces mounted upon five bastions, powder in quantity answerable, 
The strength and Wealth of the City of Bristol when it was taken.  victual in abundance of all sorts, 80 or 100 ton of Beer, Bread sufficient to serve almost 100000 men a day: Upon the Line, Castle and Forts, might be in all about 200 Pieces of Ordnance then mounted, and 300 Barrels of Powder, Match and Powder proportionable, a great Magazine of Arms; some reported (and that by the last and best intelligence) 7000. ten small Ships in the Harbour, ten Commanders slain, 
The Enemy's loss and our gain at Bristol.  one Colonel mortally wounded, sixty Officers and Soldiers slain in the storm, 37 desperately wounded: In the said storm we also took prisoners, 20 Officers in Arms, 200 Common Soldiers, and about 1000 after the taking of the City of Bristol, forsook the Enemy, and chose rather to fight with Sir Thomas Fairfax, than to side any longer with the King's Cormorants; we also took (in special) Basalisks, the Warning-piece which was lost in Cornwall, the year before, with some other Pieces of ours, than also lost, so that, at Naseby, Bridgewater, and here in Bristol, we have retaken all the brave Pieces of Ordnance, we had lost before in the West. All this rare and admirable success was the Lords doing, and is and aught to be most marvellous in our eyes, to him alone therefore be all the praise and glory most worthily ascribed for ever and ever. 
Renowned & religious Major General Skippon made Governor of Bristol.  Divers Gentlemen of the West did petition to the House of Commons, that renowned and religious Major General Skippon, that famous Commander in Arms, should be made Governor of the City of Bristol, which was accordingly (and that most worthily) condescended unto by the Parliament. And now to proceed.  
About the 12 instant, we received certain intelligence by Letters from Shrewsbury, that the valiant and victorious forces of that brave and most active Garrison, 
Shrewsburies' defeat given to the Enemy at Bridge-North.  having intelligence in what posture the Enemy lay at Bridge-North, they suddenly and silently marched thither, and undiscovered fell upon the Sentinels, soon surprised them, entered the Town itself, and there fell upon the Enemy, drove them into the Castle, slew some of them, and took some prisoners that the Enemy had of theirs, took about 180. Horse, and some good pillage, all which they safely brought away, and returned triumphantly to Shrewsbury again.  
And about the 14 instant, we were for certain informed by ●●tters from Coventry, that Lieutenant Colonel Phips, a brave and ●ut Gentleman of that famous City, being requested (as a Phisi●●an) to visit the Lady Lucy at Churlcot, about three miles from ●arwick, 
God's special preservation of Lieutenant Col. Phips of Coventry, from the danger of the Enemy.  it being within the Parliaments Garrisons, and therefore he might have thought himself secure enough, but it seemed the Enemy had some private intelligence hereof, and from Banbury a party of their Horse secretly attended his coming back, and about two miles from Warwick, or little more, at their best advantage, they discovered themselves upon him, and ere discovered, had surrounded him, and riding up close unto him, to have laid hold on him, he stoutly with his Sword kept them off, his man assisting him, whereupon they shot several Pistols at him, killed his man in the place, but the brave Lieutenant Colonel himself with his Sword only, valiantly defended himself, and violently broke through six or seven of the Enemy, who stood to stop him in a straight passage, and thus outriding them, got to Warwick without any hurt at all. This was that valiant and faithful Phips, who was the chief instrument (under God) of preserving Coventry, when the King was (at the first beginning of this War) before it. And this, though a particular passage, yet having so much of God's providence and preservation in it, and that to one of the Parliaments first and so fast friends, I thought it worthy to be here inserted, for God's glory, and the honour of his cause, and the faithful upholders of it.  
And whereas it had pleased the Lord, in his most wise disposal and righteous ordering of all things, as about this time, and sometime not long before, to permit Montrosse, that most desperate and Atheistical Rebel in Scotland, sorely and very suddenly to over-runne and spoil that Kingdom of Scotland, 
The sudden most strange condition of Scotland by Montrosse.  by the cursed help of some additional Irish Rebels, then come unto him, and thereby to work such a mighty and sudden overture of things there, as made us all (and that most justly) stand amazed to see that Kingdom so soon and so universally reduced into such a deep deluge of danger and distraction; and whereby Montrosse was lifted up to such a height of pride, and insolent arrogancy, as to go about to summon a Parliament, as Lord Paramount, and already King of Scotland, and to force divers rebellious and traitorous Lords of that Kingdom (than in durance in Edinburgh) out of prison, and to be set at liberty, and sent to him, as his beloved brethren in iniquity with him, as upon his command they were: And yet, notwithstanding all this, how admirably and graciously again, it pleased the Lord, on a sudden, to revive this seeming dying Kingdom, 
The as sudden and most admirable alteration of things again in Scotland, to God's glory, and that Kingdom's comfort.  and (in the midst of all Montrosses ruff and puff of pride) to disappoint and dissipate his high-built hopes and vapourous villainies of insufferable pride and oppression, exercised by him on the poor helpless Inhabitants where he came. The manner whereof I shall desire the Reader to receive in this ensuing relation extracted (for brevity's sake) out of an authentic narration thereof, sent from Barwick, immediately after the great and glorious victory which God gave those our loving Brethren in Scotland, which was as followeth:  
About the 12 of this instant September, 1645. being Friday, a day of fasting and humiliation in Scotland, and valiant and victorious Lieutenant General David Lesley, being then come into Scotland, advanced with his Forces within three miles of the place where Montrosses Army lay quartered, 
A brief Relation of the brave and famous Victory obtained by our Brethren of Scotland, against Montrosse in Scotland.  in Philip-Haugh, not far from Selkirk, and the morrow being Saturday, Sept. 13. he marched close up within view of the Enemy, who about 10 of the clock that morning, according to his usual manner, had made choice of a most advantageous ground, wherein they had entrenched themselves, having upon the one hand an unpassable ditch, and on the other dikes and hedges, and where these were not strong enough, they had fortified them by casting up ditches, and lining their hedges strongly with Musketeers: After viewing one another, and some slight skirmishes, parties, in this kind, growing greater on both sides, at last our Van advanced close upon the Enemy, and for almost an hour (being between 11 and 12 of the clock) it was hotly disputed, 
The fight begun.  our Horse endeavouring to break thorough and the Enemy with great resolution maintaining their ground, but at length Lieutenant General Lesley charging very desperately upon the head of his own Regiment, broke the body of the Enemy's Foot, 
Montrosse discomfited.  after which they went all in a confusion and disorder, and the Horse wanting their Foot, were not able to make great opposition; the Foot were hereupon cut off and taken, whereof 100 were Irish, 
100 Irish shot to death.  who were all since shot to death at a post, many of the Horse were killed on the place, and many taken, but more in the pursuit, for they rallied again, which, by God's providence, occasioned their greater overthrow, 
The Earl of Crawford slain.  and gave opportunity to our Horse to encounter them. Here the Earl of Crawford the General of their Horse, was slain, the Lord Ogleby, and Nathaniel Gordon, one of their most active Commanders were taken; of the Foot and Horse, 
The slain in this Fight on the Enemy's side.  it was then conceived there were between 2000 and 3000 killed. And this is remarkable in this great business, that God should be pleased to cast into our hands again, those prisoners that had been delivered up basely by the Malignants in Edinburgh, to Montrosse. 
The slain on our side.  We lost on our side Captain Barclay, and Captain Dundasse, and a very few of our other Soldiers, but had div●rs wounded, yet killed and wounded there were not in all above 100 The Lord of Hosts put a spirit of courage into our Officers and Soldiers, for all of them behaved themselves most resolutely and bravely, and after the battle, we understood for certain, that divers of the Enemies were killed and taken by the Country people. 
All Montrosses Bag & Baggage taken.  Montrosse himself escaped with a few Horse, leaving behind him all his baggage, among which we found his own Commission from the King, and divers other Commissions for Lieutenants in the several Counties, together with a Roll of all such as had received protections from him, which did serve us as a good Vidimus for the payment of our Soldiers. And that the greatness of God's goodness may shine forth in this Victory the more illustriously, I shall here give the Reader a List of the Prisoners and slain in this remarkable Fight and famous Victory.  

Prisoners of note taken, besides those were killed at the Battle fought at Philip-Haugh, within three miles of Selkirk in Tividale, upon the 13. Septemb. 1645. and since in the pursuit.  


Prisoners of note taken.  
THe Earl of Traquaire.  
Lord Seaton.  
Lord Drummond.  
Lord Ogleby.  
Lord Grace.  
Lord Linton.  
The Lord Napers eldest Son.  
The Baron of Drum, younger.  
The Baron of Reasyth.  
The Lord of Derceys eldest Son.  
Granchild to the late pretended Archbishop of S. Andrews.  
The Laird of Pury Ogleby the younger.  
Sir Robert Spotswood, pretended Secretary of State, and Son to the late pretended Archbishop S. Andrews.  
Sir John Hay, sometimes Clerk Register.  
Sir James Dowglas, Son to the Earl of Morton.  
Sir David Murray.  
Sir John Byres.  
Sir Nathaniel Gordon.  
Sir Alexander Lesly, Serjeant Major General.  
Sir William Rollock.  
William Murray, Brother to the Earl of Tullibrand.  
Col. William Stewart, adjutant-Generall.  
Col. James Hay.  
O Cain, lieutenant-colonel to the Irish.  
The Sergeant Major to the Earl of Antrim, and di●●rs Gentlemen.    


Prisoners of note killed.  
LOdwick Lindsay. Earl of Crawford, General of the Horse.  
The Baron of Innerleigh.  
The Baron of Tough.  
The Baron of Cambusnethen, younger.  
And Common Soldiers (as was touched before) between 2 and 3000.     
In all which Fight, our friends of the Scots lost not one Noble man, or any Officer of note, save only Lieutenant General Middleton's Father, whom Montrosse (before the Fight too) murdered in his bed, a grave old Gentleman that never took up Arms at all against him. All Montrosses Carriages and Ammunition were taken, all his Bag and Baggage, and above 4000 Arms.  
And that God's due glory may yet more illustriously appear in this famous Fight, and rare Victory, I shall desire the Reader to take notice of these remarkable Observations on this Fight and Victory; 
Observations on this Fight.  As  
First, Montrosse having had so long a time after this last great Victory, before Lesly came, yet he had not gotten many thousands together.  
Secondly, That all this time not one Minister of Scotland complied with the Enemy, either to preach to them, or to pray for them.  
Thirdly, That the Lord gave us this Victory in the space of an hour.  
Fourthly, That it was by an inconsiderable party, not above five Regiments of Horse.  
Fifthly, That it was only with the loss of fifteen Common Soldiers, and two Captains on our side.  
Sixthly, That it was the very next day after our Fast, or day of humiliation, as a precious return of our poor Prayers.  
Seventhly and lastly, that in the conclusion of the fight, a paperbook was taken among our prizes, in which were the names of all that either were come in, or intended to come in unto Montrosse; So as, all the rotten members in the Kingdom of Scotland were thereby discovered in an hour, and many of them cut off in a short time, in this their overthrow. Our Soldiers all cried out (after the victory) Give all the glory to God, and none to us.  
This relation of this famous victory (though acted in and chiefly interested on the kingdom of Scotland, 
The relation of inserting this relation of Scotland into this our English Parliamentary Chronicle.  yet) having so much of God in it, and no small influence on us of England also, our Scottish-brethrens' welfare and ours being so mutually embarked, as it were in one and the same vessel, I could not therefore pretermit it insilence, but most justly make this honourable mention of it, in this our Parliamentarie-Chronicle. But now to proceed.  
About the 18. of this instant September, it pleaseth the Lord to show himself wonderfully for us at the City or Town of Chester in giving (there) unto renowned Sir William Breretons forces left under the Command of that valiant, 
The SuburB, of the City of Chester wo● by valiant active Colo●●● jones.  active, and faithful Colonel jones and Adjutant General Louthane, a most admirable victory and such singular prosperous success upon that City, as gave us extraordinary hopes and probability of the timely total reduction thereof to the obedience of the Praliament; which having been most exactly and faithfully certified and set forth by letters from thence, I have here thought fit to give the Reader (for his full content and satisfaction therein) the Copy of one, most authentic, from a special Commander and actor therein; which was as followeth.  
SIr,  
It hath pleased the good hand of God's providence and assistance to lead us on so prosperously and successfully in these parts of Cheshire, that our Leaguer at Beeston-Castle hath continually kept the said Castle in great awe, & so kept in the enemy also at the City of Chester, 
The manner entering in the Suburbs of Chester 〈◊〉 our forces.  on Chester-side, as that they could not at any time offend us, but if they durst be so bold as to sally forth, it hath still turned to their own prejudice. And now, lately, we heard for certain, that Byron, their Governor, went out of Chester, on the welsh side, and we having much longed for noble Sir William Breretons coming down to command in chief among us, which would (no doubt) ere this time, have been an occasion of at least doubling our forces for the better and strong managing of our affairs here; But, however, we being unwilling to lose any advantage which we could possibly gain or might be happily administered to us, have at this time, attempted a great design, yea, such an one, as you will (justly) wonder at, especially knowing the smallness of our strength; yet (to God alone be all the praise and glory) we are now▪ both able to give a very good account of it, for the present, and we doubt not by God's assistance, we shall be able so to do for the future. But, noble Sir, not to trouble you any farther with a tedious preamble, time being precious with us at this time especially; The business was thus.  
On Friday last, September 19, 1645. We called a Council of War in the Leaguer before Beeston Castle, to consult about the marching to Chester, to storm that Garrison, and concluded that it should be done forthwith: So we stole away from the Leaguer that night, the Enemy within the Castle knowing nothing at all of the business; and drew off about 1300. horse and foot from the Siege, Colonel jones commanded the horse, and Adjutant General Louthany the foot, and the next morning before the Enemy were awake, we came upon them, having marched all that night through the Moors, passing over the River at Hupley, and so on by the way of Wareton, not so much as staying at Christleton to refresh ourselves, lest by our stay we should lose the opportunity, or be discovered. We marched that night about eight miles, and passed before break of day between Christleton and Hunnington, and so on to Boughton, all which we carried on so privately, that the Enemy had not so much as an alarm in the City.  
We came before the City on the North east side thereof, where we made no stop, but presently fell to storming, and by break of day were got upon their Works, and many of us got over in several places, before they heard any thing of us we took their works between Cowland and Boughton, quite to the walls of the City, the enemy still flying before us, we pursued them to the inner-worke which they shut up against us, but we forced open the gates at the bars, and still followed them, driving them into the East gate, which we had prevented them of, had we not been stopped by the fastening of the gate which they did to gain opportunity to fly into the city; we lost in all this, not above 2. men killed, many wounded, the enemy carried away their dead all but one body, many of note on their side are wounded, and we believe many slain, two of their 〈◊〉 works we have taken, and all that side of the Suburbs, and doubt not but in Gods good time to give a fair account of the whole City. The Enemy within, we hear, are about 1000 of whom many stiff Malignants▪ we trust we shall be able to go on, in this work so well begun by our God for us, if the King's whole strength come not against us, before we have competent supplies sent to relieve and strengthen us. Though money be scanty among our Soldiers, yet are they not permitted to Plunder the inhabitants of any thing, nor to drive away their Cattle. One part of the Enemy fled into Saint Warburge Minster, some at the East-gate, and some at Newgate; we have gained all between the Rack and the Gate going into S. Warburge As for the North gate, we doubt not but we shall soon determine that, we have also taken the ●oors, and the Inner-workes there, together with the Major of the City's house. Where we took his Sword and his Mare, which, it seemed, for haste to fly into the City, he had left behind him.  
Sir, I am your humble Servant. Eare-gate, in Chester, Sept. 19 1645.  
The Messenger that brought this welcome News to the Parliament, had 10. l. given him by Order from the House of Commons.  
About the 20. instant we were also for certain informed that the King was preparing to march to O●ford to Congratulate, or 〈◊〉 contest and alter●ate with his Nephew rupert, about his so easy (as he conceived) surrender of Bristol into the Parliaments power. But, having at that time, sent most of his horse into 〈◊〉 to compel men and money, but received nothing but 〈◊〉 to both ●his demands therein, his Messengers and Agents being in mo●● danger of blows than hope of supplies; they therefore returned toward his majesty to tell what course entertainment they found there; 
A brave defeat given to a party of the King's horse about Kidderminster by renowned Major General Poyntz.  see also how it pleased the Lord that if should 〈◊〉, that in their way to the king they met with a har●● and 〈◊〉 salutation than the former; for, Valiant & vigilant Major. Gen. 〈◊〉 having notice of this their march, and also that they intended to beat up his quarters, and so to give the King the 〈…〉 passage to Oxford; but, I say, this noble Major General, 〈◊〉 on the way about Kidd●rminster, and before they expected him, he bravely fell upon them and soon routed them, in which conflict, he took about 150 of their horse, slew about 100 of them on the place and 〈◊〉, took divers prisoners, whereof some were Commanders ●ooke above 200. arms and 3. Carriages the rest scaped by flight. It was credibly said that the King himself was then in person with them and fled to Worcester, with those that escaped; This most active and faithful Commander, Major Gen: Poyntz, resolving, by God's assistance, to make it his main work to watch the King's motions which way soever he coasted about the Northern parts.  
And about September 22. We had certain intelligence by Letters out of Wales, that the Town and Castle of Cardiff in Wales were surrendered to the Parliaments forces there, which business in brief, was effected thus.  
The hard pressures, 
Cardiff Town and Castle surrendered to the Parliaments forces.  now, imposed upon those Brittanes among the Mountains (for now that they begin to open their eyes, I will give them that ancient title) made them now at last to look toward their true preservers, the Parliament, the Country therefore unanimously stood upon terms of their own defence against the ravenous Royalists oppressive power, and so sent to our Noble General Sir Tho. Fairfax, beseeching his assistance, upon faithful assurance from them all, of real compliance and submission to his Commands, whereupon, he presently sent Colonel Herbert with a considerable party unto them; upon whose approach, the Clubmen of the Country (for, into such a posture and body they were gathered) cheerfully came in unto him and joined in a body with him, and presently the Town and Castle of Cardiff, as aforesaid, were surrendered all unto him; in which there were between 16. and 20. pieces of Ordinance small and great, 3. or 400. arms, 10. barrels of powder, and much ammunition and other provisions.  
About Septemb. 24, we had certain intelligence by Letters out of the West, that the Devizes, both Town and Castle, were also yielded up to renowned Lieutenant General Cr●●well, 
The Devires Town and Castle taken by valiant Lieutenant General Cromwell.  who first sent a Summons to the Governor thereof, but received a flat denial; Whereupon the valiant Lieutenant General Cromwell, wished the 〈◊〉 to look to himself, the Governor replying, bade him 〈◊〉 it and take it, or else ●e was never like to have it. Hereupon the undaunted Lieutenant General, no more disputed the matter in words, but with Swords, roaring Ordnance, and thundering threats from the Canon's mouths, which soon shook the Castle, and therewith changed the Governors former seeming resolutions, into a desire of a Parley about a surrender, which the Noble Lieutenant General granted. But then he desired those Articles and Conditions before offered, which now the Lieutenant General refused to grant; yet (as he said, because he desired not to shed blood) he was content to give liberty to all Gentlemen and Commanders to ride away to any of the King's Garrisons within thirty miles, or to have liberty to go beyond Seas, or to return to their own peaceable habitations, and the Common Soldiers to march away without any Arms, but not with the Officers, nor to the Garrisons whither they meant, but whither else they would, either to their own homes, or to some other Garrisons. To this they were glad to agree, and so delivered up the Town, with all the Arms and Ammunition. There were in the Castle five Pieces of Ordinance; Provisions for a year, 20 Barrels of Beef, 200 Flitches of Bacon, much Wheat and Malt, the Castle well fortified, 300 men in it: Yet the Lord (striking the Enemy's hearts within, with fear and terror) caused them thus easily to surrender 〈◊〉 us: And the Messenger that brought the News hereof to the Parliament, had 10 l. ordered to be given unto him.  
And about the 26 instant, we had further certain information by Letters out of the West, 
〈◊〉 House in Wiltshire, surrendered to the Parliament.  of the taking of Lacock-House in Wiltshire, which was surrendered to Colonel Dev●●tux, and others of our Forces, that besieged it, upon fair Conditions, viz. That the Governor, Officers and Soldiers, should march away with their own proper Arms, and that the House, with all the other Arms, Ammunition, and Provisions therein, should be surrendered to our Forces. And much about the same time, the House of Commons received a Letter from Col. General Laughorne, Dated at Haverford-West, which informed the said House, of the singular good success which it hath pleased the Lord to give their Forces in those parts, 
All Pembrokeshire reduced to the Parliaments obedience.  against the Enemy, and that they had fully cleared all the County of Pembroke. Upon the reading whereof, the House entered into serious debate thereon, and for the more cheerful further prosecution of the Service of the State in those parts, the House ordered that 2000 l. should be charged in course upon the receipt of the Excize, with consideration also for forbearance thereof, for the speedy supply of the Forces under the command of the said Col. General. And for the encouragement, and at a gratuity to the said Noble, 
The Parliaments gratitude to Colonel General Laughorne.  〈◊〉 and Faithful Colonel General Laughorne, the House ordered, That the Estate of John ●arlow of 〈◊〉, Gentleman, who had been long in actual Arms against the Parliament, shall be settled by Ordinance of Parliament, upon the said Col. General, and his Heirs. The House also Ordered, That the Ministers of the several Churches and Chapels in London, 
Thanksgiving to God for these so great mercies.  Westminster, and 〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉, should the next Lord's day give thanks to Almighty God, for the happy success of our Forces, in clearing the whole County of Pembroke, for the surrender of the 〈◊〉, and of Lacock-House also in Wiltshire; and it was ordered, That the Lord Major of the City of London should give timely notice thereof accordingly.  
About the 28. instant, came certain intelligence by Letters out of Cheshire, to the Parliament, of a very great and notable Victory which our good God was graciously pleased to give to their Forces under the Command of valiant, 
The famous Victory obtained by Major Gen. Poyntz. at Routon Heath, near Chester.  active, and loyal, Major General Pointz, against the Forces of the King, within three or four miles at the 〈…〉, of the City of Chester, the manner whereof was in brief thus; The King resenting the great danger he was in, of the utter loss of West●hester, which, in all probability, was like suddenly to come to pass, if speedy relief came not unto them: Our Forces which besieged them, since the taking of the Suburbs thereof, having by their batteries made a breach in the Wall, 
The King prepares to relieve Westchester.  and purposing 〈…〉. The King, I say, having knowledge of this their danger, resolved with what strength he possibly could make, presently to advance thither, and with between ● and 5000 Horse and Dragoones, part whereof he had drained out of many of his Garrisons, made all the speed he could to come timely to their help. In which interim, Major General Poyntz, who indeed hath deserved much honour for his constant activity in the whole Service, and resolution (as I told you before) most diligently to attend the King's Motions, having intelligence hereof, and renowned Colonel Rossiter with his Horse, being come up to General Poyntz, 
Major General Poyntz, his admirable activity to follow & prevent the King.  and the Scottish and Cheshire Horse being joined with them, they all thus conjoined together, marched away with extraordinary expedition for Westhester, and went on without any possible intermission, day and night, to get before the King, and withal in his way, took in a strong House, with a Drawbridge moated (which stood in the way of his march) in less than an hour's space. And after a very hard march, as I said, day and night, on the 24 of Septemb. in the morning, his van curriers discovered the Enemy upon a Moor or Heath, within three or four miles at most of Chester, called Rowton-Moore. Whereupon (notwithstanding his former tedious, 
Major General Poyntz, his remarkable march to prevent or overtake the King.  and even overtyring marches of near upon 300 miles, not resting above a day in a place together with divers difficulties which he was forced to pass through, and all this to prevent, or at least overtake the King, yet, I say, notwithstanding all these) he immediately drew into order, and advanced upon them (though all his forces were not then come up together) for he supposed and hoped to take the Enemy at unawares, it being probable they could have no intelligence of his being so near, though it proved otherwise, for his Letters (written that night to the Commander within the out-Lines of Chester, giving notice of his advance) were intercepted, and the Enemy being possessed of the advantage of ground, and in order confronted our Van led by Colonel Hugh bethel in the midst of a Lane betwixt two Moors, 
The fight begun fiercely.  covered with the armed men of both Ba●taliaes, where was given a very sharp and gallant charge by both parties, for after Pistols were discharged at half Pikes distance, they disputed the matter with their Swords a full quarter of an hour, 
The Enemy put to a retreat.  neither yielding ground to other, till at length the Enemy was forced to retreat, whom our men pursuing, were re-encountred by a fresh reserve at the Lanes mouth, and they were likewise discomfited; and a third, but being over poured were in the end forced to retreat through the Lane● uncapable of receiving a Reserve to second them: 
O●rs sorely put to it.  here we had some loss, the Enemy pursuing to the Lanes end, but were beaten back, for there was space for our Reserves to advance; Colonel bethel and Colonel Graves were then sore wounded, after this the General perceiving the Enemy lay upon his advantage, 
Col. bethel and Col. Graves sorely wounded.  only skir●●●ed him with some flying parties, while he held correspondency with his friends in Chester Suburbs, whose sign was the discharge of two pieces of Ordnance, when they would issue out with Horse and Foot to join● with him, upon whose appearing the Enemy quitted their station, and the General with a party advanced to take the most convenient ground, giving command in Colonel Parsons, Quartermaster general of the Army (Colonel Sandies who performed the duty of Commissary General of the Horse, 
Ours much 〈◊〉 by the Enemy.  during the aforesaid march, being then employed to the Committee of both Kingdoms) to order up the rest, which was opportunely done, for they joined with the Auxiliary forces of Horse and Foot in the enemy's ground, and were drawn into many small Divisions and Reserves, being much overnumbred by the Enemy, who accounted themselves 5000 Horse, and General Poyntz not above 2500 Horse, besides two small bodies of Foot, who were disposed in the two outmost intervals of Horse; upon the very instant of this juncture the Enemy advanced with their whole Body, and the General (leaving the charge of the reserves to Colonel Parsons) took care of, and led up the Van Divisions, with which, 
Major General Poyntz, his Horse wounded on the head.  after a round volley of shot from the Foot, he joined battle, charging the Enemy in Front and Flanck, where his horse was deeply wounded on the head, being continually seconded with reserves as often as there was occasion, the rest being kept entire followed at a due distance; The prevailing General put the Enemy to a total rout, 
The admirable courage of Major General Poyntz.  and although the pursuit was as hot as could be expected from such wearied Horse, thorough narrow dirty lanes, and over ditches, the Enemy rallied in a great moor wide of Chester, in two vast bodies, a great distance asunder; the first (not without some dispute) were again routed, and the other likewise, who retreated upon the Warwick Regiment with such violence, 
The Enemy routed, mixed with, & troubled ours.  as boar them away confusedly, intermixed with the flying Enemy, up to the out-Works of the Suburbs, the Musketeers within were never the less liberal of their Gunshot, but the Divine providence appeared much in the distribution of the impartial Bullets, few or none lighting upon our men, though many of the Enemy were found there expiring.  
A Body of horse all the while of these last disputes appeared fixed on the top of a hill, 
The Enemy appeared again in a body on a hill.  a little distant on that side Chester, wherein the King was very confidently reputed to be, for confronting whereof, a party of Foot winged with Colonel Lidcot, and Colonel Bethels Regiments, were drawn into a convenient Close in the bottom, as a grand Reserve; but the night by this time falling, the body on the hill appeared not, and those in the bottom returned to their comrades sasiated with slaughter, prisoners, and booty of the vanquished Enemy: While these things were thus agitated in the field, the remainder of Foot left with Colonel Lowthian in the Suburbs were not idle, for the Enemy made a strong sally upon them out of the City, 
The Enemy sallied out of the City, are repulsed.  and were more strenuously repulsed, the number of the slain, of the prisoners and horse taken, is not yet known, but is generally conjectured 800 slain, 1500 men and 2000 horses taken, there was brought in that night the underwritten list, of the considerablest men taken and slain in the fight which was as followeth: Sir Thomas D●bridgecourt, Sir Thomas Gore, Colonel Thomas Weston, son to the Earl of Portland, and 6 more Colonels; 7. Lieutenant Colonels; 5. Majors; 19 Captains, to one whereof the Queen had given a Scarf to wear for her sake; 14. Leivtenants; 7. Cornets; 19 Gent. of his Majesty's Lifeguard; 20. other Gent. 5. Trumpeters; 4. Quartermasters. There were slain in this fight (as we were credibly informed) 2. Lords, whereof the one for certain was the Lord Bernhard Stuart, the King's kinsman, 
Prisoners and prizes taken. The slain. The Lord Bernhard Earl. of Litchfield.  Earl of Litchfieild; Sir Bryan Stapleton (a new made Knight the King's Agent for the bringing over of 10000 men out of Ireland; one Colonel; one Lieutenant Colonel; with about 400. more Officers and Common Soldiers. Between 800 and 1000 others taken prisoners; Great store of arms, much good pillage, and many more horse and men taken in the pursuit, whose exact number and conditions could not so suddenly be certified.  
After the reading of Colonel Parson's Letter in Parliament (whose relation, as aforesaid, I have principally followed) the House of Commons entered into serious Debate of the prosecutions of this great victory; And ordered that certain Members of that House should be forthwith sent down to Sir. Tho. Fairefax, then at 〈◊〉, to inform him and the Army of this good success which it had pleased the Lord to give our forces, under the command of Major Gen. Poyntz, and of the condition of the North, and to desire a supply of forces to be sent thither upon a design, not, then, fit to be revealed in public. 
A day of deserved thanksgiving appointed by order of Parliament.  They also ordered that the Thursday than next ensuing should be appointed a day of Thanksgiven for this great victory, in the City of London, Westminster, and Lines of 〈◊〉; and the Thursday 7 night following for all the Counties within the power of the Parliament. 
500 ●. Sent as a token to renowned Major General Poynz.  And 〈◊〉 an encouragement to that worthy and Gallant Soldier 〈◊〉 Gen. Poynez, they ordered that 500 l, should be bestowed 〈◊〉 him as a testimony of the affection of the Houses toward 〈◊〉.  
And that which made this excellent victory the more sweet and remarkable to us was, that it was given us, Even as a return of prayers or as a blessed prevention of prayer to set an edge of Spiritual zeal on our hearts in prayer, it being obtained and given in unto us by the wise and gracious power and providence of our good God and bountiful and ever blessed Father upon the 24. of this instant Septem. which was that Months public solemn fastday. Other, who would not faithfully wait, rest and rely on such and so liberal a God, who is readier to give than we to ask?  
And this September the 29. according to the Ancient annual custom of the renowned City of London, 
Alderman Adam's chosen Lord Major of the City of London.  there was an election of their New Lord Major of the said City for the year ensuing, at the Guild-Hall in London, where, and at which time the Citizens, whom it concerned, advisedly and most unanimously chose Alderman adam's, a pious, prudent, Gentleman and grave Citizen to be their Lord Major. In whose most happy choice this renowned City is most like (by the mercy of God) to be as happy and honourable every way after this year of his Major 〈◊〉 as ever it was by any of his former famous and faithful Predecessors. And about this foresaid time, the Commons assembled in Parliament received an Ordinance from the House of 〈◊〉, for making of a new Baron of the Exchequer, which was read and passed there and returned back immediately to the Lords and fully passed there also, 
Religious Mr. Tomlins made a Baron of the Exchequer.  in the blank whereof the House of Commons nominated and inserted for that place, Richard Tomlins, Esquir, a Counsellor of the Inner-Temple a faithful, worthy and pious Patriot, as in a special manner, his fidelity was formerly manifested to injurious persecuted pious Master Pri●●e, for whom (in those dangerous days) he was of Counsel and stood close unto 〈◊〉, did most abundantly declare. And about this time also 〈◊〉 Parliamentary States prudently and providently took into their serious Consideration, not only the choice of some new and truly well deserving Sergeants of Law to be now necessarily made Judges viz. Sergeant Rolls to be a Judge in the Kings-Bench Serjeant 〈◊〉 a Judge in the Common-Plea's and Sergeant 〈◊〉 another of the Barons of the Exchequer. 
Other well deserving. Gentlemen of the Law made Judges by the Parliament.  But also for the future avoiding and prevention of those ungodly corruptions which have been formerly in those places, it was most piously and prudently ordered that 1000 l. Per annum should be allowed to each Judge out of the Reve●●● to be paid 〈…〉 of Fees, Liveries and such like former allowances. A happy and holy Commonwealth 〈…〉 most like to be established, when both worthy, learned, pious and prudent Governors, Judges and Magistrates fearing God and hating Covetousness, are thus chosen to fit at the Helm of Authority and Judicature, and also such courses taken, as may in all likelihood, and equity (by God's Grace especially) restrain wont corruption and bribery, and fairly induce them to do justice to all without partiality and avarice; which the Lord in mercy grant unto us, that justice now at length may run about like Rivers in our streets as the Prophet speaks, Amen and Amen.  
About the end of this September, we received certain intelligence, that Barclay Castle in Gloucestershire was surrendered to valiant and active Colonel Morgan, and Colonel Rainsborough, the taking whereof, being a place of such strength, and the manner of taking of it, worthy an exact relation, I have therefore thought 〈◊〉, 
Barkley Castle surrendree to valiant Colonel Morgan and Colonel Rainsborough.  for the Readers better content and satisfaction therein, to insert the Letter of a special actor and Commander in that service and siege, which was as followeth:  
SIR; Understanding that you desire to be acquainted with the true manner of our taking in of Barclay Castle, which it seems you have not yet had a full Relation of, I have therefore here satisfied your desire, and given you a full and faithful account thereof, which was thus; The 〈◊〉 was difficult, the Castle strong, and the Enemy within, especially 〈◊〉 Goveenour, Sir Charles Lucas, 〈◊〉 obstinate at an Enemy could be, yet 〈…〉 our Forces were joined with those of Sir Tho. Fairfaxes, whereof valiant Colonel Rainsborough had the Command, we made 〈◊〉 long stay, but ●ell presently upon their out Works; then our men most gallantly marched up unto their Guard in the Town, which was a strong Work indeed, out of which we beat them, and presently took it: In which 〈◊〉 many of our men were drowned, and some few slain; but having thus gotten into that Work, we planted our great Guns against the Tower, and battered it much, and they returned the like roaring resolutions to us, with cuse shot of bullets, 〈◊〉, and such like matter, and killed some of 〈◊〉 men, amongst whom John Freeman Lieutenant to Major Dobson 〈◊〉, me, he had three 〈◊〉 given him at one time, in the breast, flank, and 〈◊〉. Our men notwithstanding this, went on 〈◊〉, sealing 〈◊〉 with much resolution, which occasioned Sir Charles to desire a 〈◊〉, and offer 〈◊〉 to depart. There were three of our great Guns 〈…〉, which were planted against the Tower of the Church. The 〈◊〉 had planted a 〈◊〉 upon the top of the Tower, but our men made such batteries that they were glad to take it down: Upon the top of the Tower the Enemy placed a Flag of● defiance (as they 〈◊〉 it) which 〈◊〉 of our Regiments boldly and bravely got up the walls and took 〈◊〉▪ but whilst he was vapouring 〈…〉 the top of the Tower, a part of the Tower he stood on (being much broken and battered by our Gun) 〈…〉 him, so that he fell down, and was killed with the stones that fell upon him, and two more that came after him, to help him, were killed likewise. The business was the more difficult and dangerous by reason that what our men did was open, and at midday. Upon the Enemy's 〈◊〉 order was taken to divide the plunder of the Castle, and it was concluded, that if our Captains would deposit 500 l. in money, which should be divided among the Soldiers, to each five shillings, they should 〈◊〉 the plunder of the Castle; the which five of our Captains did, namely, Major White, Captain Stevenson, Captain Piagot, Captain 〈◊〉 and one more, and so paid the Soldiers, and took the 〈…〉 was very much Beef, Bacon, Butter, Cheese, Meal, Wheat, 〈…〉 and a great quantity of other things, 300 flitches of 〈…〉 room, many cattle, insomuch that it is thought, that there was victuals for 300 men for five months. This illustrates the 〈◊〉 of God in 〈◊〉 it was so soon taken, the storms were so hard and sharp, and the ●●dders weighty to rear for scaling. During the siege, many of the Enemy thought to have got out of the Church into the Castle at the 〈…〉 our men, although there were many cross Brest-Workes in the Churchyard, made such haste, and came in with such courage and resolution, that 〈◊〉 got between the Enemy and the Castle, and did much execution upon them. The Enemy in the Castle all the time much annoyed our men, but the Lord in the end (blessed be his holy name for it) gave us the victory, and the Country is much s●eed from that most intesti●● oppressor Sir Charles Lucas. Thus you have the manner of subduing the great Enemy, according to my best knowledge and intelligence. And so let all thine Enemies, O God, perish, and be put to shame and dishonour.  
And now, good Reader, I shall here desire thee, with myself, to make a little stand and stay, again deservedly to look upon and contemplate with thy most serious thoughts and grateful heart, the most rich and rare Parliamentary mercies, and the various Victories, and triumphaut trophies of honour, even the most real demonstrations of the truth of this months remarkable Wonder, 
The Burning-Bush unconsumed.  of The Burning-Bush (still) unconsumed, yea, mightily, and even miraculously prospered and preserved, maugre the mischief of all the fierce and most furious flames of Antichristian and Atheistical wrath and rage, round about it, as is most evidently and eminently apparent, both in our renowned Parliamentary Worthies prudent and provident care to undeceive the misled people in Wales, by an excellent Declaration against the Royalists foul and false slanders. In the happy recovery of the City of Bristol from Rupert and his ravenous Royalists. In renowned and religious Major General Skippons being made Governor of Bristol: Shrewsburies' defeat given to the Enemy at Bridge-North, and the remarkable preservation of Lieutenant Colonel Phips out of the Enemy's hands. In God's admirable mercy to our distressed Brethren of Scotland, almost overrun and ruined by Montrosse, but returning his intended mischief upon his own head. In giving such a memorable access unto, and hopeful entrance into the City of Chester, by our possessing of the Suburbs thereof. In that brave defeat given to the Enemy at Kiddarminster, by valiant General Poyntz. In delivering up unto us the Town and Castle of Cardiff in Wales, and hopeful reduction of the hearts and affection of the Welsh to the Parliament. In the rendition of the Devizes and Lacock-House Garrison in Wiltshire, and the reduction of all Pembrokeshire to the obedience of the Parliament. In the famous defeat given by our forces to the Enemy at Rowton-Moore. And in the establishing of pious and prudent Magistrates and Judges; Together with the surrender of Barkley-Castle, into the power of the Parliament. At the serious sight and deep and due consideration and contemplation of all these rich and rare Parliamentary Mercies, 
Not a month, a week, nay hardly a day, void of one mercy or other unto us.  O who can choose but stand amazed and wondering at the unfathomed free favour, and unbottomed bounty of our good God unto us? O wonderful, what, never a month? never a week? nay I may almost say, never a day, for so many months together, but a Victory, or a rich and rare Mercy, granted unto us, and conferred upon us? O then let there never be a month, never be a lip, a heart, or a tongue, empty of; but, chose may they ever be most full of the high and most honourable praises of our great and good God, 
Psal. 68 19 Psalm. 32. 7.  even the God of our salvation, who thus daily loads us with his loving kindness, and thus constantly encompasses us with songs of deliverances. But now to go on.  

October. 1645.  And here now I shall begin the serious and sacred observation and contemplation of the marvellous mercies of our wonderworking, God, in the progress of this month also, with that brave defeat given to our Enemy's Forces, by that valiant and vigilant Commander Colonel Moor, 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy by Colonel Moor Governor of Gaunt-house.  Governor of Gaunt-House, a Parliamentary Garrison, which lies within about eight miles from Oxford, from whom we had credible information, that about the beginning of this instant October, this valiant Colonel being gone forth with a party of about 200 Horse, met with a party of about 500 Horse of the Enemies at Kidlington, and that he (notwithstanding the great dis-proportion and unequality of their number to his) skirmished most courageously with them well-nigh three hours together, and at last, by God's assistance, put them to the rout, and pursued them, even to the Gates of Oxford. In which brave bickering and pursuit, they took prisoners, Master Sackvile, the Earl of Dorsets second son, Lieutenant Colonel Simth, one of the King's Pages, and Prince rupert's Chaplain, 2 Gunners, one Trumpeter, and about ●0. Common Soldiers. And that, upon the same day, our quicksighted soldiers took 2 Barges laden with Coals, Cheese, slate and other commodities, as they were going up the River to Oxford. 
Farleigh-Castle in Somersetsh. taken.  And about the same time, also, we received certain intelligence out of the West, that Farleigh-Castle in Somersetshire (whereof Colonel Hungerford, brother to Sir Edward Hungerford, was Governor) was then, for certain, surrendered up to the Parliaments forces; the Commanders wherein being allowed to have only horse and arms to march forth withal and the Common-souldeirs to depart without either. About the second of this instant we received Letters out of the Northern parts of the kingdom from Colonel Overton, 
Sandal-Castle in Yorkshire taken.  which were read in the House of Commons, dated from Sandall-Castle in Yorkshire▪ by which it was for certain signified, that the said Sandall-Castle (after the space of 3. week's Siege) was surrendered to Colonel Overton, upon Articles agreed on between him and Colonel Bon●vant, than Governor of this Castle; viz. That 12. of the prime Officers in the Castle should have liberty to march forth with their Horses and Swords, and to carry with them a spare suit of clothes, and the rest of the Soldiers to depart only with the clothes on their backs, and Staves in their hands. The Governor and Gentlemen, being allowed each of them a Horse to carry them away to Welbeck-house, as they desired, but their Horses to be returned by their Convoy; and all the Ammunition and provisions of war, in the Castle to be left to Colonel Overton, which was accordingly performed.  
About the 4. instant, we were also certainly informed, that valiant and victorions Leiuten. 
Winchester Town and Castle taken by victorious Leiuten. General Cromwell.  General Cromwell, being without much difficulty or disturbance entered into and fully possessed of the Town of Winchester, and having new round begi●● the Castle, and planted his Ordinance against it, was resolved to storm it; which the Governor thereof, Colonel Ogle perceiving, he was at first content to have a parley about the surrender of it; But in the mean time some troops arriving thither, with noble and ever to be renowned Sir William Waller, whose this Castle was, and who was now come to the Lieutenant General to assist him as occasion might require; the Enemy within, falsely supposing that this was relief, sent to them, they presently took down their White Flags, and refused to proceed in the proffered parley, hoping now their said supposed relief would break in unto them, but indeed none appeared, as they hoped, in which interim, which was all that instant Lordsday, 
The list of what was taken from the edemie in Winchester Castle.  the noble Lieutenant General having forborn them, but now finding them thus to baffle with him, on the Monday morning following, he played violently upon the Castle with his great Ordinance, and made a breach so wide in the Castlewall, that many men might enter in a breast; hereupon the Lieutenant General resolved to proceed to storm the Castle, and to make the Enemy repent his foresaid dallying with him; and yet, loath to pursue a course of vengeance and unwilling to make an effusion of blood, if it might be avoided, he therefore thought fit, once more, to send them in Articles fit for him to require and for them fairly to yield unto, before he proceeded to the extremest rigour; which, in brief were gladly condescended unto by the Governor, & the Castle with all the Arms, Ordnance and Ammunition, and other provisions therein surredred into the possession of the noble Lieutenant General. The were taken in the Castle, 7. Pieces of Ordnance, 17. Barrels of powder, 2000 weight of Musket bullets, 800. weight of Match, 700. Muskets (besides Pikes, Halberds and other such like weapons) and at least 100 Horse; 38. Hogsheads of Beef and Pork, powdered; 1500. weight of Cheese, 800. pots of Butter, 140 quarters of Wheat and Meal, 7000 weight of Biscuit, 112. Hogsheads of strong Bear, 3. Hogsheads of French-Wines; 10. quarters of salt, 20. bushels of Oatemeal, 70. dozen of Candles, 30. load of Wood; 40. quarters of Charcoal, 30. bushels of Sea-coals, and 4. quarters of Fresh-beefe ready killed, and 14. sheep. All this fore said mighty store of provisions of all sorts thus left in the Castle unabused and unembezelled by the Enemy, Visrount Ogle, the la●e Governor (a resolute and desperate Soldiers, with 200 gentlemen, Officers and their Servants, 680. horse and foot) marched away to Wood-stock, 
The strength of Winchester-Castle.  and so for Oxford. The unexpected so soon surrender of this place, was so much the more remarkable (to the great praise and glory of our wonderworking God) not only in regard of all that store of provisions, but also in that the Castle itself was exceeding strongly fortified, completely manned, and plentifully furnished (as you have heard) with all kinds of provisions; for the fortifications, were of the strongest military Architects in the Kingdom; for, when our men had made tha● foresaid breach in the wall (which produced the parley) they had 3. works more to have stormed, each-higher than the other, before they could have entered the Castle, beside such a desperate resolute Soldier as the Governor was held and known to be. All these serious circumstances, considered, it makes I say, this God's mercy to us the more glorious; and gives no little persuasion that certainly, now the hearts of the stoutest Royalists begin (by the power of our God) to faint and fail them; blessed, for ever blessed be the Lord for it. And, thus now, renowned, Sir William Waller is fully repossessed of his new House. But to proceed; About the 8. of this instant October our most prudent Parliamentary Senators took into their circumspect consideration, the coming in of Malignants or Delinquents to their party; 
The Parliaments intended mercy even to Malignants and Delinquents.  and that though, of necessity the Sword must be still and stiffly held-up, yet out of a pious and zealous desire to hasten a period to these unhappy Civil broils, and to mix clemency with all their actions; they thought good to propound an other day of grace or favour unto them; to wit, till the 1. of December, then, next ensuing, by which time, all that were or should be capable of this mercy might come in and compound for their Delinquency; for which purpose, a Committee at Gold-Smiths-Hall in London was appointed and a Vote in Parliament passed to that effect. And withal, that all such persons of what rank or quality soever that did thus come in and compound for their Delinquency, should also after this their composition sue-out and pass their Pardon under the Great-Seale of England or else their former Composition to be void and of none effect unto them; but they to be apprehended and proceeded against as Spies. This indeed being a most wise and excellent way, both a little to pull-downe their proud Spirits in the necessitated acknowledgement of their most foul offences, 
The Excellent wisdom and justice of the Parliament, mixed with their foresaid mercy.  and to●ly (upon rolls and record) as a black spot and indelible sline upon them to posterity, of their being such perfidious and pernicious betrayers and destroyers (as much in them was) of their own dear native Country, to the utter rvine of themselves their wives and children, by slavery and tyranny over their bodies and Souls.  
About the 10▪ instant we were certainly given to understand of the powerful and propitious hand of God's good providence and mercy unto us, in giving in that strong and most pestilent and pernicious den of thiefs and robbers, I mean Bazing-house, in, Hampshire into the Parliaments possession by the martial valour and industry of renowned and victorious Lieutenant General Cromwall together with the brave Commander Colonel D●Albeire, 
Bazing-House taken.  the substance of the manner of the taking of it, being fully related by victorious Lieutenant General Cromwell's letter brought by Colonel Hamond to the honourable Speaker of the House of Commons and there read, I have here thought fit (for the Readers better content and satisfaction to Insert the same, which was as followeth.  
SIR,  
I thank God, I can give you a good account of Bazing. After our batteries placed, we settled the several posts for the storm; Colonel Dalberte was to be on the North-side of the house next the Grange, Colonel Pickering on his left hand, and Sir Hardresse waller's and Colonel Mountagues Regiments next him; We stormed this morning after six of the clock, the signal for falling on was the firing four of our Canon, which being done, our men fell on with great resolution and cheerfulness, we took the two Houses without any considerable loss to ourselves; Colonel Pickering, stormed the new House, passed through and got the Gate of the Old House, whereupon they summoned a Parley, with our men would not hear, in the mean time Colonel Mountagues, and Sir Hardresse waller's Regiments assaulted the strongest Work, where the Enemy kept his Court of guard, which with great resolution they recovered, beating the Enemy from a whole Culverin and from this Work,; which having done, they drew their Ladders after them, and got over another Work, and the House-Wall before they could 〈…〉 Sir Hardresse Waller performing his duty with 〈◊〉 and diligence, was shot on the Armw, but not dangerous, we have had little loss, many of the Enemies our men put to the Sword, and some Officers of quality; most of the rest we have prisoners, amongst which the marquis, and Sir Robert Peake, with divers other Officers, whom I have Ordered to be sent up to you: We have taken about ten pieces of Ordnance, with much Ammunition, and our Soldiers a good encouragement. I humbly offer to you, to have this place utterly slighted, for these following reasons. It will ask about eight hundred men to manage it, it is no Frontier, the Country is poor about it, the place exceedingly ruined by our Batteries and Morter pieces, and a fire which fell upon the place since our taking it; If you please to take some out of the Garrison at Farnham, some out of Chichester, and a good part of the Foot which were here under Dalbier, and make a strong Quarter at Newberry with three or four Troops of Horses, I dare be confident it would not only be a curb to Dennington, but a security and a Frontier to all these parts, in as much as Newberry lies upon the River, and will prevent any incurtion from Dennington, Wallingford or Farringdon into these parts, and by lying there, will make the Trade most secure between Bristol and London for all Carriages. And I believe the Gentlemen of Sussex and Hampshire will with more cheerfulness contribute, to maintain a Garrison on the Frontier, 〈◊〉 in their 〈◊〉 which will have less safety in it. Sir I hope not to delay, but more towards the West to morrow: and to be as diligent as I may in my expedition thither, I must speak my judgement to you, that if you intent to have your work carried on, Recruits of Foot must be had, and a course taken to pay your Army, also believe me Sir, it may not be able to answer the w●rk● you have for it to do. I entreated Colonel Hammond to wait upon you, who was taken by a mistake whilst we lay before this garrison, whom God safely delivered to us to our great joy, but to his loss of almost all he had, which the Enemy took from him, The Lord grant that these mercies may be acknowledged withal thankfulness, God exceedingly abounds in his goodness to us, and will not be weary until Righteousness and Peace meet; and that he hath brought forth a glorious work for the happiness of this poor Kingdom, wherein desires to serve God and you with a faithful hand.  
Your most humble servant Oliver Cromwell. Basingstoke 14. October. 1645.  
I shall first present you with the particulars of the success, at Basing-house in the prizes and prisoners taken. There were taken as followeth, viz. The marquis of Winchester, Sir Robert Pe●ke Governor, 
A list of the prizes and prisoners taken at Bazing-House.  Sir Inigo Jones the grand Surveyor, four Roman Catholic Priests (reserved for the Gallows) twenty Gentlewomen, 180. common prisoners, ten pieces of Ordnance, twenty barrels of Gunpowder, nine Colours, 3000. Arms, 200. Horse, 8000. l. worth of Clothes, Beds and other goods, many Firkins of Butter, a great quantity of Cloth, much bullet, and match, many Crucifixes, Popish Pictures and Books, near a thousand Chests, Trunks and Boxes, 400. quarters of Corn, 200. barrels of Beer, 300. flitches of Bacon, an hundred bags of Malt, 40000. weight of Cheese, the marquis of Winchester's Plate, Cabinet and Jewels, worth above 5000. l. Sir Robert Peakes 500 l. besides a Box of brass Plates, the Marquis' rich Bed and furniture which cost 1300. l. one common soldier found 300. l. in gold hid in a hole, about 4000 l. ready money, a great quantity of Wine, and many Hogsheads of Beer, besides the Lady's wardrobe, which furnished many of our Soldier's wives with Gowns and Petticoats. Slain, Major C●st, six Priests, Robinson the Player's son, only one woman, 
The slain and wounded.  who fell a railing upon our soldiers at their entrance, calling them Roundheads, and Rebels to the King; whereupon one of our soldiers cut her on the head, and near 300. common soldiers, Doctor Griffin sometimes of Dunstanes in the West, late of old Fish-street, taken and sore wounded, and three of his daughters, much Ammunition taken. The loss on the Parliaments side in this desperate service was (blessed be God) not much, Sir Hardres Waller, who behaved himself gallantly, wounded, and not above ten others in all slain outright, though about eighty, or an hundred wounded. The word which the religious Major Gen. chose, when he came to sit down before that popish Garrison was out of the 115. Psalm, concerning the worshippers of Images: Their gods are the works of men's hands, wood and stone, turns they have and see not, ears and hear not, and hands and handle not; And that word of God was made good in the enemy, who upon the Storm had not strength to handle their weapons to defend themselves, but were delivered to the mercy of our soldiers. A great part of the Pillage was sold to the Country people, who likewise had a good part of the prey, and carried many Cartloades away. The House burnt down and demolished.  
After the reading the Letters of Bazing, the House began to debate of some further timely service of the gallant valiant and religious Soldiers which might be done in those parts for the better clearing the passage into the West, and the result of all was, that Letters should be written to several Committees to join forces with those that stormed Bazing for the taking of the Castle of Dennington, etc. The House likewise ordered that the Ministers in the several Churches and Chappells in London and Lines of Communication, should on the next Lord's day in their several Churches and Chapels give thanks to God for his great mercy in delivering up Winchester and Bazing House into our hands.  
And about the 12. of this instant October; we had certain intelligence by letters from Gloucester that the valiant, Active and faithful Governor thereof, Colonel Morgan (the most worthy Successor therein, of even to be honoured Major General M●ssi●) with about 300. horse and 400. foot, part whereof was sent unto him by the then deputy Governor of Bristol, Colonel Fleet-wood, assisted also by the Monmouthshire men, 
Chepstow Town and Castle in Monmouthshire. besieged and taken by valiant Colonel Morgan.  having taken the town of Chepstow, besieged and summoned the Castle, but the Governor thereof, Colonel Fitz-Morris returned a peremptory negative answer; whereupon valiant Colonel Morgan planted 2 great pieces of Ordnance, and a morter-peece for battery, and made a breach into the Castle; whereupon the Governor sent presently to desire a parley, but Colonel Morgan as presently returned answer, That now it was too late; whereupon all the Soldiers issuing forth fell down upon their knees, crying, Quarter, quarter, for God's sake, and wholly referred themselves to the General's mercy, and the Castle was instantly surrendered to him. There were in the Castle, Colonel Fitz-Morris the Governor, Major Bridgeman, and an 106. Common Soldiers, who were all carried prisoners to Gloucester. They took, besides, in the castle, 30 horse and their furniture, 18. pieces of Ordnance great and small, 16. barrels of Gunpowder, 2 Harque bushes, 6. tun of lead, great store of fireworks, 30. beefs in powder, 30. barrels of salt, 4000 weight of biscuit, a butt of Sack, 3. Hogsheads of Methegline, 4. Hogsheads of beer and Ale, 70. bushels of Oatmeal, 10. bushels of Pease and Beanes, and 30. bushels of Wheat, many firkins of butter, 400. weight of cheese, with store of other provisions and ammunition. And we were, about the same time, for certain, informed, that Sir Trevor Williams and very many Gentlemen of Glamorganshire and Monmouthshire had freely and faithfully declared themselves for the Parliament; and as a testimony thereof had raised 1500. Soldier's out of both those Counties for the Parliaments service, and resolved suddenly to besiege Monteth; the effects whereof you shall see fully related in its proper place. And thus we see how triumphantly the Lord, now rides on in glory for the blessed advancement of his Great Cause: ever magnified and praised be his great and most glorious name therein. 
The Parliaments piety and gratitude.  The Messenger that brought this welcome. News to the Parliament was rewarded by them, with the gift of 10 l. for his pains in the journey; And the House also most piously and gratefully ordered that thanks should be given to Almighty God, on the Lordsday than next ensuing, for the happy surrender of Chepstow Town and Castle, as also of Winchester and 〈◊〉; And they farther ordered that thanks and a reward should be sent to that faithful and valiant Commander Colonel Morgan. A right way, indeed, to thrive and proceed victoriously and successfully, where God is in his mercies exalted, and virtue and valour is not left without honour and reward.  
About the 14. of this instant October, the Vote in Parliament for sending forth writ● for the election of new Members of the House of Commons for filling up the vacancy of those that were Deceased or had perfidiously deserted the House, was put in execution; and a Letter being read in the House of Commons, sent from the Major of Sandwich by a Member of the House of Peers, to procure the election of a Member to sit and serve in Parliament (of his nominating) according to the writ sent down thither for that purpose; 
The Parliaments integrity, about the election of new Members for the House of Commons. The writ for the right choosing of Members of the House of Commons.  Whereupon the Commons on serious debate on this business, referred the same to the Committee of Privileges, the result whereof was; That it was ordered, that for the future, a Copy of the Order of the House of Commons made in Anno 1641. should be sent down with all writs for new elections; A Copy of which Order, for the Readers better satisfaction, and for the clearing of our most renowned Parliaments integrity, in this, as in all other their faithful managing of the States-affaires, I have here inserted, which was as followeth.  
WHereas the House of Commons hath received Information, that Letters from Peers are directed to Boroughs, that now are to 〈◊〉 Elections of Members to serve in this Parliament: They conceived that all Letters of that nature from any Peers of this 〈◊〉 do necessarily tend to the violation of the Privileges of Parliament, and the freedom of Elections of the Members, that aught to serve in the House of Commons; and do declare, That notwithstanding such Letters, all Persons, to whom Elections of Knights and Burgesses do belong, aught to proceed to their Elections, with that freedom, which by the Laws of the Realm, and of Right they ought to do, and do expect, that if any such Letters from any Peers of the Realm, shall hereafter be sent unto them, That the parties receiving the same shall certify the contents thereof, or bring the Letters themselves to the Speaker of the House of Commons.  
Octob. 10. There came a Letter from Abington to renowned Major General Brown, the most worthy Governor thereof, being then in London, of a gallant piece of Service performed by that brave Garrison against the Enemy at Farringdon, the particular whereof, take in the said Letter, sent from valiant and active Colonel Pain, the said Major Generals Deputy- Governor, which was as followeth;  
SIR,  

A brave defeat given to the Enemy at Farringdon, by Abington Forces,  The last night, viz. Tuesday 14 instant, I marched forth with a party of Foot, and all our Horse, to Farringdon, where we came so near the taking of that Garrison, that I myself heard the Enemy earnestly call to draw up the Bridge, our Foot being then within a stones cast of them, before they could draw it up; yet we lost not our labour; for, we bickering and skirmishing with them there, took about 100 Horse of theirs four Captains, one Lieutenant, four Quartermasters one Sergeant, 17 Troopers, eight Foot Soldiers, and one Drum, in all about 37 Prisoners, and slew two upon their Works: All this being done with the loss of one man only on our side, and we safely returned home the next day by 12 of the Clock, Praised be God for it.  
Your Honour's humble Servant, George Pain. Abington, Octob. 15. 1645.  
About the 18 of this instant, came certain intelligence by Letters to the Parliament, of a notable defeat given by renowned, active and faithful Col. Rossiter: to the Forces of Banbury, conducting those two pernicious Princes, Rupert and Maurice to Newarke to the King their Uncle, being there, the manner whereof was to this effect: The two Princes aforesaid perfidiously pretending (as afterward it most evidently appeared) resolutions forsooth to depart the kingdom, and desirous first to see and speak with their Uncle the King, had a Convoy of Banbury Horse to guard them thither, 
A brave defeat given by Col: Rossiter to the Banbury Forces which conducted the two Princes to Newarke.  in all about six Troops, and thus they marched toward the King, to take their leave (forsooth) of him, before they would cross the Sea and be gone. And thus, I say, they marched on all that first night; but intelligence hereof came to valiant Colonel Rossiter, being then at Grantham, whereupon all in that Garrison, being 300. and 400 more which lay at Stamford, were drawn to Melton by the said renowned Colonel, to meet with them by the way, but upon intelligence again from Burleigh, that the report of the Princes coming was false, our Horse were ordered to march back to Grantham, in which interim the Princes passed on, even almost to Eelvoyre, without any opposition all the way. But suddenly again, Colonel Rossiter now having most certain information, that the Princes were come a little beyond Belvoyre, toward Newarke, the Princes, then, determining and deeming themselves past danger, they were sending back the Banbury Horse, but as they passed by Burleigh Garrison, they were set upon in their rear by valiant Captain Allen, with his Troop of Horse, who then took some of them prisoners, but himself in person being too far engaged, 
Valiant Captain Allen, Governor of Burleigh Garrison, unhappily slain.  was unfortunately shot, and since died of the wound, a great loss unto us, he having been a most faithful, active, and courageous Commander. But Colonel Rossiter being then at Melton; and now, I say, understanding for certain, that the Princes were got to Belvoyre, being very unwilling their Forces should pass so freely from him; without a martial salutation, made haste after them, and ordered his march with such secrecy and celerity, that he was wholly undiscovered, until he fell upon them in their passage from Belvoyre to Newarke, where, I say, he overtook them, and set upon them, who thereupon faced us twice or thrice, as though they would have charged us, but upon our so sudden onset, they ran for it, but ours following close upon them, had soon routed them, where we paid them to purpose, took at least 60 Gentlemen prisoners, one Major, three Captains, 140 Horse, Prince Maurice his Trumpeter, with his Banner and Trumpet, in which bickering we wounded and killed divers of them, some of whom men of quality, the Princes themselves were forced to ride a pace for it, and so escaped our hands with about 100 Horse, and got to Newarke, but with what a panic fear, we may easily guess.  
About the 20 instant, we had also certain information by a Letter out of the West, from renowned Lieutenant General Cromwell, in the Parliament, 
Langford House near Salisbury taken.  of the surrendering of Langford-House, a strong Garrison of the Enemies near Salisbury, unto him, for the King and Parliament, which was no sooner summoned, than the Summons condescended to by Sir Bartholomew Pell, than Governor thereof, and upon Articles of Agreement between Colonel Hewson, and Major Kelsey, in the name of Lieutenant General Cromwell, and the said Sir Bartholomew Pell and Major Edmond Wedale, Commanders in Chief in the said House, it was surrendered.  
This Garrison was the 21 Garrison or strong Hold that had been taken from the Enemy this Summer and Autumn-season (a sore fall of the leaf to the Royalists, enough to make them starve and die the ensuing Winter) and all this done by the so contemned New-Modell-Armie, under the Command of the most Noble and Renowned General, 
A note most worthy to be taken notice of.  precious Sir Thomas Fairfax, besides those taken in other parts, by other Commanders, as P●●●efract, Sc●●rough, and others in the North.  
Now let any, yea all the old Soldiers in England, nay (I may dare to say, in Christendom) show us the like done; so many strong Castles, Forts, and Garrisons taken in any part of Europe, in six years, as have been thus taken in this Kingdom, by our young despised Soldiers, in less than five or six months. O that we could and would therefore have evermore in our tongue● and hearts, holy david's Quid retribu●●mus? What shall we repay to the Lord for them? O that we would, especially, faithfully pay our Vow our most Solemn Covenant, in reforming our lives, and building the House of this our so glorious Wonderworking God, the God and only giver of all these so many, so mighty, yea so marvellous, if not miraculous mercies.  
Much also about the aforesaid time, we were certified by Letters from Coventry, 
Sir William Vaughan● Regiment bravely beaten.  that Sir William Vaughan's Regiment coming from Newark to Litchfield, and thence intending for Bridge-North, was opportunely met with by a party from Tamworth, who falling bravely upon them, soon routed them, slew divers of them on the place, and took from them at least 100 Horse and Arms, the rest escaped by flight.  
And about the 22 of this instant October, came certain intelligence by Letters out of the Northern parts of the Kingdom, of a most memorable and famous defeat given to the Enemy at S●erburne in the North, by the Parliaments forces in those parts, which for the Readers better content and satisfaction, and for the more full and faithful Narration of the thing itself, I have thought fit to give you that valiant and active Commander Colonel Copleyes' own Letter, 
The famous defeat given to the Enemy at Sherburne in Yorkshire.  sent to the Honourable Commissioners for the War in Yorkshire, this brave Colonel himself being (under God) a principal and most valiant actor and instrument of the Victory: which was as followeth;  

Honourable Gentlemen:  
MY haste last night made my Relation then sent, 
Col. Copleyes' Letter touching the most famous defeat given to the Enemy at Sherburne.  both short and unsatisfactory. This I now present, is for your further and full satisfaction, touching our late fight with the Enemy at Sherburne. Upon intelligence of the Kings advance to Blythe, with part of his Horse, we appointed a Rendezvous on Tuesday morning, purposely to have slapt his advance by Doncaster, but hearing that he had a Rendezvous that morning at Worksope, and thereby fearing his advance into Cheshire, we kept our Quarters and the Guard at Doncaster, as usually, only that we might be in readiness, I also appointed a Rendezvous of all our Horse, at two of the Clock on Tuesday evening. In which interim the Enemy had advanced, beyond our expectation, from Worksope thorough Doncaster by day light, and beat up our Guard at Cusworth, about six or seven of the clock, and in Scawsby-Keyes they quartered, and so marched straight to Ferribridge the next morning, and thence to Sherburne, where they met with a Countryman, who told them that our men were prepared for their coming as so indeed a party of ours were, of about 800 Foot and some Horse, upon whom the Enemy fiercely falling (being but a handful to them) they soon routed the Horse, beat Colonel Wrens Regiment, at the North side of Sherburne, 
The Enemy surpriseth our Forces in Sherburne, both Horse and Foot.  and took all the Foot Prisoners, disarmed them all presently, and laid their Arms in a great heap in Sherburme street, till they could get Carriages to take or send them away, for their further use▪ But, we having certain intelligence hereof, marched thither with all speed, and being now come to Sherburne, we drew up our Horse, and ordered them into bodies for Charges and Reserves. But here, first we fell into a great strait, for we durst not march thorough Milford, fearing the Enemies with their Dragoones, (for, we heard they had such, but they had none) might have put us into disorder; but above the Town, through the hedges, which also was some inconvenience, 
The difficulties our Forces met about Sherburne.  we were forced (whom we came near Sherburne, and the Enemy drawing out against us) to draw over a narrow way, through an impossable Brook, which we knew not of, having much ado thereby to bring our bodies again into order, which truly might have occasioned the loss of the day unto us, had not the Enemy been somewhat too late (being busy with their Arms and Prisoners taken in the Town, as God had wisely disposed of it for us) in drawing out of the Town. So, thus, then, by God's assistance, I brought up against every of the Enemy's bodies (as near as I could) a body of ours, 
Both parties meet together in the Field.  and resolutely faced them in the Field, both parties striving who should be soon in Battalia. But here let me give thee (good Reader) a sight of Sir Marmaduke Langdales' Speech, made to his Soldiers in the Field, before the Fight began, which came to my hand, and was unquestionably a true Copy of the substance thereof; and this it was:  

Gentlemen:  
YOu are all gallant men, 
The substance of Sir Marmaduke Langdalet Speech to his Soldiers before this fight.  and have done bravely, but there are some that seek to scandalise your gallantry for the loss of Naseby Field, but I hope you will redeem your reputation, and still maintain that gallant report which you ever had. I am sure you have done such businesses, as never have been done in any war with such a number, your march from Oxford, first beating of Rossiter, and the relief of Pomfret, the like I believe was never done; And I hope you are Gentlemen, and that you will still maintain it, and redeem that which you have lost; For mine own part, I will not have you upon any design, but where I will lead you myself.   
And thus now, I say, he led them on into the Field.  
Now the Enemy being also much flushed and encouraged with their late good success against us, 
The fight begun.  charged valiantly upon us, and ours answered them with as brave gallantry as could be; at first the left wings on both sides were routed, 
The Enemy routed and put to flight.  but in the conclusion, our Reserves coming on so seasonably and courageously, the Enemy was forced to fly, and we, by God's blessing, got the day, though I must confess, divers of our Horse (as I touched before) were routed at first, and the mischief fell most upon my Regiment, 
The Lord Digby wounded in the Fight, and four Pistols fired on Sir Marmaduke Langdale. The Enemy pursued three miles.  who charged the only gallant men (the Reformadoes) that the Enemy had. One of their chief Commanders (the Lord Digby by name) was wounded, as we were credibly informed, and Sir Marmaduke Langdale himself also had four Pistols fired upon him, but whether he was wounded or not, was then uncertain unto us. But the Victory was clearly ours (ever magnified and praised be our great and gracious God) and we solely kept the Field, and pursued the Enemy at least three miles together, Many prisoners were taken, we believe 400 at least, Sir Richard Hutton was slain upon the place, whose Corpse his kindred (having protection thereunto) buried in the place he formerly had desired to be laid in. I have here sent the List of their slain and prime prisoners taken by us, 
Scarcely ten of our men slain.  which you shall receive by Colonel Lilburne. Many of our men were wounded, but hardly ten slain. This was certainly a great business, and a rare mercy unto us, for the Enemy made themselves absolutely sure to have been in the City of York that night, 
The importance of this business.  or the next day at farthest; but now they are scattered (blessed be the Lord for it:) And that which was not the least part of our Victory, we recovered again all our men and Arms which they had before taken from us in Sherburne, 
All our men and Arms recovered that were taken before.  as also the prevention of the Enemies intended march to Montrose in Scotland, which (with the taking of York in the way) was the main design which the Enemy eagerly aimed at, in this their thus undertaken march. Not unto us Lord, not unto us, but to thy name alone, we give (as most due) all the honour and glory hereof. Honourable Gentlemen, your desire of a full relation, hath made me thus tedious, for which I crave your pardon. I shall present your Order to the Officers and Soldiers, in the expression of your good acceptance of: this our Service, and your farther intended care for us; And for the present I rest  
Your most humble Servant Chr. Copley. Octob. 16. 1645.   

A List of the prime Prisoners, and of the Prizes taken at this Battle at Sherburne, on Wednesday, Octob. 15. 1645. about four of the Clock in the afternoon.  

COl. Sir Francis Anderson.  
Col. Bulmer.  
Col. Chayton.  
Col. Carnaby.  
Lieut. Col Matthew Wentworth.  
Lieut. Col. Gordon.  
Major Graythorn.  
Captain Leneon, Master of the Ordnance.  
Capt. James Cholmley. wounded.  
Capt. Martial. wounded.  
Capt. Pudsey. wounded.  
And four Captains more.  
Capt. Lieut. Salter.  
Lieut: John Turner, and divers other Reformadoes.  
Master Duke Tunstall, a great Papist.  
Mr. Clavering.  
Mr. Lowither.  
Col. Sir Francis Carnaby slain.  
Col. Sir Richard Hutton slain,  
and 40 more.  
Mr. Slingsby sore wounded.  
Col. Clavering and Carnabyes Colours taken, with divers other Colours.  
Lord Digbyes Coach, and the King's Surgeon in it; but eespecially his Cabinet, wherein were divers Letters, some whereof of great consequence, written in a new Character, & the Character also found, which could open all.  
Much gallant Pillage.  
We lost not ten men, but many wounded.  
The Enemy were about 1600 intended for Montrosse, ours about 2250.  
About six hundred of the Enemy gone towards Skipton.  
300 or 400 Troopers taken, & about six hundred Horses.  
40 slain, and many wounded.  
The Countess of Nidsdale taken, and some other Ladies.    
About October 24 we received certain intelligence by Letters from the most renowned General, Sir Thomas Fairfax, his Excellency, to the Parliament, as also by other unquestionable informations out of the West, 
The admirable and almost miraculous taking in of Tiverton Town and Castle.  of the taking of the Town, Church and Castle of Tiverton, by his Excellency's Forces in those parts; the manner whereof, in brief, was thus faithfully related: Upon Thursday, Octob. 16. Major General massy was ordered by the General to advance to Tiverton, and so to quarter beyond the River with his Brigade, which accordingly he did, and soon possessed himself of the Town of Tiverton, 
Major General massy enters Tiverton.  forcing the Enemy out of it, only those that had got into the Church and Castle to keep those places as long as they could. It was then conceived hard for us, nay almost impossible for us to hinder the Enemy's Horse from marching Eastward, if they would have attempted it with their whole strength, except Lieutenant General Cromwell (with his whole Brigade) did come up timely to us. On Friday the 17 instant, the General Sir Thomas Fairfax himself, 
The General fits down before the Castle & Church.  sat down before Tiverton Castle and Church, to take them in, and summoned the Enemy to deliver them up; of which being denied, we planted our battering-Peeces against them, which work went forward that day and the next.  
On Saturday, Octob. 18. our batteries being finished, by the afternoon. Upon the Lord's Day, Octob. 19 the General caused several great Pieces to be planted on the Batteries, against the Castle, very early in the morning, so that they were ready to play by break of day, and all our Canon began to play about seven of the Clock that morning, against the Castles; and the Enemy from thence answered us with their Pieces, but (blessed be God) did no execution upon any of us. But, see the admirable and all-directing power and providence of our wonderworking God, for us, namely, 
The admirable providence of God, here, that one of our Cannoneers shoots a shot at adventure, and breaks down the Draw-bridge of the Castle.  that after some shot which we had made against them, one of our Cannoneers, by one shot from his Piece of Ordnance, most gallantly and admirably (if not almost miraculously) in a moment performed this most difficult business for us; for, at that one shot, it pleased the Lord so to direct the Bullet, (just like him, 2 Chron. 18. 33. which drew a bow at a venture, and shot his arrow at King Ahab, so that he died, as the Lord had said by the Prophet) so, I say, the Lord did so direct this bullet, shot at a venture, that it broke the Chain of the Drawbridge quite in Pieces, whereupon the Drawbridge, presently fell down, and thereby made the passage open for our entrance into the Castle, which most happy opportunity, our Soldiers seeing, instantly laid hold thereon, and without any Order from the General, chose rather courageously to fight, than to stand still and look on, when God gave them so fit and fair an occasion; which their resolution took so good effect, that they soon possessed themselves of all, 
The Castle & Church entered by 〈◊〉 Soldiers.  presently entered the Castle and Church, in which on flat we had only four men slain: And though we entered thus, yet, such was the mild, moderate, and gentle carriage of the General, and such his desire to spare the effusion of blood, that, I say, notwithstanding they took it by storm, yet he himself gave command that Quarter should be given to all that were alive, 
The General's clemency.  which was accordingly performed. We took in the Castle, Sir Gilbert Tal●●●, Governor of the place, above 20 other Officers and Gentlemen of note and quality, 
The Prisoners and prizes taken in the Church and Castle.  and among them, one Master Kemp, a grand Malignant Priest, above 200 Common Soldiers, four Pieces of Ordnance, thirty Barrels of Powder, 500 Arms, and store of other Ammunition, Provision and Treasure, good prey for the Soldier's pains, who so well deserved it. The Works of this Castle (as the General himself testified) were as strong and regular as ever he saw, and this Garrison of singular good use, both in order to the straitning of Exeter, as also for securing of any thing for his Army, whiles it stays in the West. O how are we therefore bound to our so great and glorious wonderworking 〈◊〉 who thus felicitates and facilitates our great and most dangerous endeavours, for the effecting and finishing of his gracious Work of Reformation among us! ever magnified and blessed be his holy name, which exceeds all praises, for ever and ever.  
About the 26 instant, we had also certain intelligence out of Wales of the excellent and most hopeful condition of things in that Principality, 
The good condition of Wales for the Parliament.  viz. That the whole County of Pembrokeshire was totally reduced to the obedience of the Parliament, and the greatest part of Glamorganshire; where generally the Inhabitants showed themselves very forward and active for the Parliament, so as five or 6000 had taken up Arms against the Common Enemy of their true peace and welfare, and many of them had joined themselves to valiant Colonel Morgan, and had done great good Service already in those parts, and had taken Sir John Strangewayes, a great stickler for the Royal Party. 
Carmarthen Town and Castle taken.  And that the Town and Castle of Carmarthen were surrendered to valiant, victorious and faithful Major General Laughorne, for the use and service of the King and Parliament: And that the Inhabitants all there about had unanimously and publicly made Declaration of their resolved fidelity to the Parliament, and had to that purpose subscribed many hands and names, in the behalf of the rest, according to their spontaneous consent and agreement, in a Declaration to the said Major General in these words:  
WE whose names are subscribed, 
The Declaration of the County of Carmarthen.  in the name of ourselves and all the Inhabitants of this County, do absolutely declare for King and Parliament, and will with our lives and fortunes, assist the Forces raised by the Parliament, against any other whatsoever, that shall seek to invade these Countries, and do desire to be received into the King and Parliaments protection, according to the Declaration of Major General Laughhorne. And as for Contribution, we also willingly submit thereunto, proportionably to our neighbour Counties.  
Octob. 11. 1645.  
About the 28 instant we were further certainly informed by Letters out of Wales, that the Town and Castle of Monmouth were taken by valiant Colonel Morgan, 
Monmouth Town and Castle taken by Colonel Morgan.  with the assistance of the Clubmen of those parts, under the conduct of Sir Trevor Williams, being 1500 Foot and 200 Horse; the manner of the taking of them, in brief was thus:  
Upon Colonel Morgan's advance that way, with all those and his own Forces, and his near approach to the Town, the Enemy voluntarily (but out of just strong fear of him) quickly quieted the Town, and drew all their Soldiers into the Castle (for, the King's recruits since his sore loss at Naseby, had drained his Garrisons half dry) whether they betook themselves for their present best refuge. And as soon as Colonel Morgan came to make demand of the Town, the Townsmen and Inhabitants presently gave him all he could desire of them, and fair admittance to 〈◊〉. As soon as he was entered the Town, he sent Summons to the Castle, 
The manner of taking the Castle.  but received a flat denial, whereupon he summoned in the Country, to bring in Spades, Shovels, Mattocks, Baskets, etc. which was expeditiously and in short time performed by them: The next day he began to mine, and to salute the Enemy with some shot, and this presently produced a Parley, and the Parley soon brought forth Conditions, upon which the Castle was delivered up to the valiant Colonel. There were not in all above 130 within the Castle. 
The prizes taken in the Castle.  We took in it seven Pieces of Ordnance, 400 Muskets and Pikes, ten or twelve barrels of Powder, 25 Barrels of Brimstone and Salt-Peter, together with good store of other Ammunition and Provision. The truth of all this was consumed by Colonel Morgan's own Letter to the Parliament, after the reading whereof, the Commons ordered that thanks should be returned to Almighty God, for all these great mercies in those parts, 
The Parliaments gratitude to God for these great mercies, and thanks to Col. Morgan.  the next Lord's Day, in all Churches and Chapels in and about London and Westminster. And further Ordered, That a Letter of thanks should be returned to the said valiant Colonel Morgan, for this and all his other gallant and faithful services for the State, since his having command of Gloucester, and that the said Colonel Morgan should have the command of all the Forces of the County of Gloucester. And as for the Government of Monmouth, it was conferred upon Sir Trevor Williams, a worthy, religious, and gallant Gentleman, A fit and faireway indeed, by gratifying the well-deserving, to engage their hearts and affections more and more to the State and Kingdom.  
And much about the foresaid time the Letters taken in the Lord Digbies Coach at Sherburne conflict (as hath been touched before) were read at a Conference of both Houses of Parliament: 
The Letters taken in the Lord Digbyes Coach at Sherburne in Yorkshire, read in the Parliament.  In divers whereof, to the marquis of Ormond in Ireland, his Majesty much bewails his low and decaying condition, since Naseby Battle, and advises him, if he can, to make a Peace with his Irish Catholic Subjects, or at least a Cessation: But however, though he hazard the loss of that Kingdom, that he should come away in person, 
The substance of 3. or 4. of those Letters.  unto him, withal the forces Arms and Ammunition, that he could get and command from thence, leaving the rest, (namely, the Protestants on the Parliament-side) and the Rebels, to dispute the business together. And to encourage the marquis therein, he promised him, that if he did prosper, he should be preferred to all the dignity that possibly could be conferred upon a subject; but if his Majesty's undertake succeeded ill (as 'twas most like they would, being altogether against God and his Truth) he and the rest of his followers would have the honour to die nobly in a good cause.  
In another Letter upon occasion of Prince rupert's advising him to a treaty with the Parliament; his Majesty checks the said Prince for it, wonders he was so much misled; tells him, that to condescend lower than his terms at Uxbridge, would be as bad as a submission, which, he would never do so long as he lived. And, in another Letter dated at Newarke, October to the King declares the grounds of his coming to Newarke rather than any other Garrison, it being most unlikely to be besieged; Colonel General Poyntz being (as the Letter said) much broken with pursuing him: That he had the greatest strength thence to break out upon occasion, and to get to Montrosse, who by an express, gave him to understand, that his Condition, and late ●ent was not so bad and so great as was reported, but that he was in a good condition, and by an addition of forces from Kalcan, who were coming to him, he should be able to assist the King, etc. In all which premises, we may all see, with what poor and vain hopes, mere Egyptian-Reeds, the King rests on and feeds himself; and thereby, thus, more and more hardens his heart from hearing or yielding any fit and fair accommodations with his people and Parliament, About the 30. of this instant October, we had certain intelligence by a Letter under the hands of famous and faithful Colonel Mitton, Colonel jones and Adjutant Louthian, that the enemy being industrious to relieve that Garrison of West-Chester, and knowing that the loss of that would be the surrender of all the other; 
A brave defeat given to the enemy near Denbigh Castle, who intended to relieve Chester.  They had, therefore, drawn a party out of their Garrisons of Worcester, Ludlow, Bridgenorth and other Garrisons thereabout, 2400 viz. 1700. Horse and 700. foot and Commanded by Sir William Vaughan, being all in one body near Denbigh-Castle, which was about 22. miles from Chester. Whereupon, our forces calling a Council of War, what was best to be done, whether to suffer the Enemy to come nearer, or to go out and right with them they concluded to go out, and so drew forth about 1400. horse and 100 foot, leaving the Works sufficiently man'd before Chester; and on Saturday they came to the enemy near Denbigh Castle, sent a forlorn hope under the command of Captain Otter, the Body being commanded by gallant Colonel General Mitton, the Horse led up by Colonel Jones, the Foot by Adjeant Louthian, who fell on the enemy with as much gallantry as could be expected, there being under their command some Lancashire horse, some of Warwickshire and Shropshire, etc. each Officer and Soldier deserving honour for their resolution and action; among which Major Hanksworth of Warwick 〈◊〉 Major Sanders of Derby did very gallant service: in short, we wholly routed the enemy, took between five and six hundred horse, and above four hundred foot, slew above an hundred on the place, and pursued them six miles, doing great execution all the way, so as in the evening there was not above one hundred left together of the enemy. The particulars could not then be related; this Messenger came on Tuesday night, and had fifty pounds given him for the intelligence; And the Parliament also ordered that letters of thanks, should be sent from that House to Colonel Mitton, and the rest for this and all their other faithful Service to the state.  
And not long after the foresaid time we had yet farther information by Letters from those parts, that renowned, religious and victorious Sir William Brereton, was now safely arrived (as had been long and earnestly desired by the Country, there) at the Leaguer, before West Chester, and that valiant and vigilant Colonel jones having certain notice that Sir William 〈◊〉, 
Another brave defeat given to the Enemy at Holt-bridge, where Sir William Byren was taken prisoner.  the bloody Lord Byron's brother, knowing well the wants and shafts of his said brother Governor of Chester, had therefore got together what provisions he possibly could make and scrape up together, and all the forces he could raise to the number of about 400. near Holt, with an intent thus to relieve the City of Chester on the Welchside thereof. But I say, brave and active Colonel Jones, knowing hereof, chose rather to march out unto him by the way, than to be more dangeously molested near the City walls where he lay, and so leaving a sufficient guard about the Town in the Leaguer, went forth, and met him on the way, bravely encountered him, wherein the fight, having soon routed him, he took Sir William 〈◊〉 himself, their Commander in Chief, Prisoner, with about 50. other prisoners and horse, slew divers on the place, took divers hors-loades of their provision, wherewith they intended to have relieved the City; and thus, by God's goodness hindered this design also; thus, by God's mercy, hastening our hopes of the sooner surrender of the said Town unto us.  
And about the 31. instant, came the most Excellent news (with which I shall conclude this most Memorable Month also). 
Another most famous defeat and brave victory over the Lord Digby, and Sir Marmaduke Langdale, in their march into Scotland, to join with Montrosse.  of a most famous defeat and remarkable routing of the forces of the Lord Digby, and Sir Marmaduke Langdale, in their hoped and intended hot and furious march into Scotland to join with Montrosse his forces there, for a farther great mischief to that poor kingdom, and ours also (had not the Lord graciously prevented it) afterward, upon their success in this intended design of theirs. Which famous defeat was brought to the Parliament, by Sir William Adison, who came to London out of the North and brought the true intelligence thereof; the particulars whereof were as followeth: The Lord Digby, and Sir Marmaduke Langdale having sent to Boulton and others of their party in Lancashire, Cumberland and other places to come in unto them and join with them in their March toward Scotland, where they intended to join with Montrosse, as aforesaid, They marched from Skippon Northward, and endeavoured to have passed by Kirby-Linsdale, but Colonel Briggs having intelligence of this their design, 
The Lord Digby crossed in his way and forced to go another way.  made good a pass against them, whereby he forced them to turn by the way of the Sands about Partmake to get into Cumberland, their Chief guide being Sir William Hudlestone (a new made Oxford-Knight and desperate Malignant) who also engaged what party he could to their assistance and brought them to Millum-Castle, which was his own House, on the Seacoasts.  
About which time there was some four or five ships seen upon those coasts, and thereupon conceived that they were laden with Irish to join with Digby about White-Haven, but they proved some of our own Navy. It seems that Digbies design was to have gone into Scotland, to have joined with Montrosse; which design, he (it seems was much encouraged in by Sir Marmaduke Langdale and Sir William Huddlestone) who is grown so great a man with Digby of late, that he is confident to be added to the new model of Lords.  
Thus by their activity they had gotten together about one thousand horse under the command of the Lord Digbie, and Sir Marmaduke Langdale, and with them were upon their march towards Montrosse.  
Lieutenant General David Lesley with about two thousand was upon his advance towards them, and lay between them and Mistress, to hinder their conjunction with Digby; in the mean while the well-affected Gentry of Cumberland were forced to fly for their security; the enemy plundering, and using great cruelty all the way as they passed: insomuch that the country people made a great acclamation against them.  
General Lesley sent out a Brigade of about 1100. horse, under the command of Major General Vandrusk, to pursue the enemy; and a Regiment of English horse also were designed after them to gain a pass, in case the enemy came back to hinder their retreats.  
Major General Vandrusk with the Scots Brigade pursued the enemy so close, that they discovered them in their march, and endeavoured to force them to engage, which the enemy endeavoured to avoid; Major General Vandrusk divided his then, and made good several passes; but by reason of the lowness of the tide, Digby and Langdale got away over the Fords; over which, Vandrusk followed them: the enemy fled over another water, and so over three or four several places one after another, so long till the flowing of the Sea came in after they had passed the last Ford, and before Vandrusk could with his body get over, the waters were swelled too high to pursue further; whereby Digby got an opportunity with his forces to escape them.  
In the mean while the Lord Balmersnoth with what forces he could raise out of the Frontiers of Scotland, prepared to oppose Digby, who with his party, (Digby it seems having intelligence thereof,) occasioned his retreat, and so wheeling about escaped his forces, and avoided engagement at that time, but all this while Digby increased, and gathered forces; and was 1000 at the least and committed many 〈…〉, and villainous plunderings, with his men in all places where he came, sparing neither friend nor foe; yet all this while Digby and Langdale avoided all our forces, and it seems had guides that were perfect in the ways where he was to march, so that he escaped every parts all this while; but yet we met with him afterwards with a small party, and it pleased God to make them so far powerful against them as to rout and spoil them.  
Sir John Browne, a very gallant active man, undertook with a small party of between 4. and 500 to seek out Digby and his nimble brigade, that had so many quinoes, and turnings, and if it were possible to force them to engage: which he performed with great wisdom and valour.  
Sir John Browne divided his small party, about 150. were sent to make good a pass, whilst the rest being not above 300. marched out towards the enemy, Sir John Browne having then Intelligence that the Lord Digby, Sir Marmaduke Langdale and the rest, in number about 1000 were about Carlisle sands, thither he hasted after them, and Digby (it seems) having Intelligence of forces coming against him, (but it is probable knew not the number, for he) fled from them, nearer to the Sea, whether Sir John Browne followed them, and it pleased God to give him an opportunity to fall on the enemy, the thing that Sir John much desired, and the tide being up Sir John Browne gained a pass, which is a kind of pass over a place which he got and made good; and though he was so few, and the enemy so many, yet Sir John Brown was resolved to engage, and to run that hazard, trusting in God's al-sufficiency, and accordingly drawn up.  
But Sir John Browne, though willing to hazard his own person, yet he sent away his Colours to General Lesly, with some other things that could not do much help but hinder the fight; and sent word to General Lasly, what a resolution he had to force Digby to engage; and what an opportunity he had to do it; which though so few, yet with those he had he would run the hazard, his number being then not full 500 but well mounted, and Armed.  
Upon their approach the Lord Digby took an alarm in his quarters, and understanding that the party were but small, drew into a posture to fight with them, divided his forces into two bodies, one of which stayed with him, and the other Commanded by Sir 〈◊〉 Langdale; Digby stayed with his party, and Langdales came up towards Sir John Browne, and they faced each other a while, the enemy being then surrounded by the waters.  
Sir John Browne sent Captain Lesly on the forlone hope, who drew up; and being met by the enemy charged them very gallantly, the reserve charged up to him seasonably with Sir john Browne; and all of them in their several places, (according to their degrees) did all very much and in short time broke thorough their body and routed them; Their reserve some, of them, came up, but most fled; And in this action Sir John Browne himself deported himself with as much gallantry as any man in the world could do, the whole body being not discouraged, though in number so much overmatched.  
For the particulars of those that were killed, and taken, I refer you to the list, where all the particulars are certified, according to Sir John Brownes own letter.  
The Lord Digby had a clear rout as ever was given to any; The Lord Digby himself, with Sir Marmaduke Langdale and others of his chief Officers that escaped fled over to the Isle of man in a Cockboat: The Isle of man is a malignant Island, between Cumberland and Ireland; the Earl of Derby is the Governor thereof for the King: and of others that escaped there are divers taken stragglers, and their Horse and Arms, but in a body there are none heard of, save only about 200. that are fled towards B●●m; and a party are sent to stop them from getting in thereto, if they can, but of them that are fled that way of the Enemies many of them are fore wounded.  

A List of what was slain, and what was taken by Sir John Brown at the routing of the Lord Digby and Sir Marmaduke Langdale at Carlisle Sands.  


On the Enemy's part.  
ONe hundred slain upon the place.  
Many wounded.    


Taken Prisoners.  
DIgby his Quartermaster General.  
1 Colonel of Langdales' Brigade.  
2 Lieutenant Colonels.  
3 Captains of Horse.  
Divers other Officers.  
Many Prisoners.    


Taken besides.  
TWo Hundred Horse and Arms.  
The Lord Digbyes own Standard.  
Sir Marmaduke Langdales' Standard.  
3 Colours of Horse.    


On our part.  
SIr John Browne shot thorough his side, but not mortally, for he is able to fit upon his Horse back.  
Captain Lesley wounded.  
30 and odd slain, amongst whom some Officers, but none of note that I hear of.  
50 or there abouts wounded on our side in all.  
Digby and Langdale with 1000 Horse, were totally routed by Sir John Browne, with a party of about 500 and Digby and Langdale fled to the Isle of Man in a Cockboat.     
And upon the intelligence hereof, an Order passed both Houses of Parliament, to this effect: It is this day Ordered by the Lords and Commons in Parliament assembled, That the Ministers in the several Congregations in the Cities of London and Westminster, and Lines of Communication, do upon Wednesday next, being the 5 of November, take notice of the great mercy of Almighty God, in preserving and continuing this present Parliament, now full five years complete, notwithstanding all the designs and machinations of the Enemy against them; And likewise to make most thankful mention of God's great mercy in the defeating of the Lord Digby and Sir Marmaduke Langdales' Forces in Scotland, by Sir John Browne of fardel Knight: And that the Lord Mayor be desired to give the several Ministers timely notice of this Order.  
And now, good Reader, let me entreat thee (as there is very great reason) here to make a little stay, and even to stand amazed in the serious and most grateful review and recogitation of the still continued and multiplied mercies of our most good and gracious wonderworking God, in this Month also, to his blessed Burning-Bush, 
The Burning-Bush unconsumed.  still, I say, both unconsumed, and also made most prosperously to stand and flourish in the midst of all the rough and outrageous conflagrations and combustions of Malignants power and policy, might and mischievous machinations, to have utterly 〈◊〉 & destroyed it, root & branch, had not God, I say, the great and gracious, the most wise and vigilant Watchman, over his poor maligned English-Israel stood for them, as hath been mightily manifested in its glorious preservation and propagation; both, in the brave defeat given to the Enemy by Col. Moor Governor of G●●nt-House, the taking of Far●igh Castle in Somersetshire, and of Sandall Castle in Yorkshire. In the happy surrender of the Town and Castle of Winchester, into the Parliaments power; and the pious resolutions of our Parliament to deal mercifully with Malignants and Delinquents, notwithstanding their intended merciless cruelty towards us; and yet herein also the Parliaments prudence and providence for the safety and welfare of the Kingdom. In the most happy taking of Bazing-House, that pernicious den of thiefs, and thus cleansing that foul and filthy Augean-stall; together with the taking of Chepstow Town and Castle by Colonel Margan. In the cleared integrity of the Parliament, touching 〈◊〉 of new Members unto them; the brave defeat given to the Enemy by our Abington Forces; together with that other brave defeat given by valiant Colonel Rossiter to Banbury Forces near Newarke. In the taking of Langford-House near Salisbury; and the sound beating of Sir William Vaughan's Forces by Tamworth Garrison. In the famous defeat given to the Enemy at Sherburne his Yorkshire, by valiant Colonel Copley; and the admirable, and almost miraculous taking of Tiverton Town and Castle. In the happy overture of things in Wales, for the reducing of that Principality to the Parliaments obedience; and the taking in of 〈◊〉 and Monmouth Towns and Castles to the Parliaments party. And lastly, In the discovery of Digbies Letters, the brave defeat given to the Enemy near Denbigh Castle, coming to relieve Chester; And that other brave defeat given to Sir William Byron on the like intention to relieve Westchester, where he was taken Prisoner: Together with that last, not least, famous defeat given again to the Lord Digby and Langdale, in their mischievously intended march into Scotland to Montrose. Upon the most weighty and worthy grateful consideration of all which most memorable and admirable Parliamentary mercies, and mighty blessings; O what infinite cause have we, O in what innumerable and indissoluble bonds of obliged gratitude are we everlastingly bound to bless the Lord, 
Isa. 25. 9, 10, 11.  our thus great and gracious wonderworking God? And with the pious Prophet to be enlarged in our hearts and tongues with abundant expressions of joyful confessions and exultations in our God, and to sing and say, in this our day, Lo, this is our God, we have waited for him, and he hath saved us; This is the Lord, we have trusted in him, and now he hath made us to be glad and rejoice in his mighty salvations, for he hath trodden down Moab (our most proud and politic adversaries) under his feet, even as straw is trodden down for the dunghill. 
Isa. 28. 29.  This also cometh all forth from the Lord of Hosts, who is wonderful in counsel, and most excellent in working. Go on, O Lord, we pray thee still to make thy great name more and more glorious, 
Psal. 9 19, 20.  and let not men prevail; Let still these irreligious Royalists be judged in thy sight; Put them still in fear, O Lord, that they may know they 〈…〉 men. So shall we thy people, and the sheep of thy pasture, give thanks 〈◊〉 to thee, and bless thy name (as we do this day) for ever and ever. 〈◊〉 now to go on.  
And here, 
November. 1645.  now, we will begin the yet further most grateful contemplation and admiration of the most memorable Parliamentary Mercies of this next ensuing Month also of Novem. 1645. with a most notable evidence and testimony of the most prudent and provident care and vigilancy of our Parliamentary Senators, for the good and welfare of the Kingdom, every way, in two memorable Ordinances of Parliament, 
Two excellent Ordinances of Parliament.  ratified by the Lords and 〈◊〉. The one giving power to the Committee of Goldsmiths-Hall in London, to tender the Solemn League or Covenant, to all persons coming unto them out of the King's Quarters to compound for their Delinquency; And the other for the enabling of the Commissioners of the Great Seal, and the other Committees in their several Counties, to tender an Oath to all such persons of what degree or quality soever, that shall come into the Parliaments protection. Both which Ordinances, together with the foresaid Oath, I have thought fit, for the Readers better content and satisfaction, here to insert, as they were printed and published by authority of Parliament, which were as followeth:  

Die Sabbathi 1 Novemb. 1645.  
An Order of the Lords and Commons in Parliament Assembled, giving Power to the Committee of Gold-Smiths-Hall, to tender the solemn League and Covenant to all such Persons that come out of the King's Quarters to compound for their Delinquency.  
ORdered by the Lords and Commons in Parliament Assembled; That the Committee of Goldsmiths-Hall shall have Power to tender the solemn League and Covenant to all persons that come out of the King's Quarters to that Committee to compound, either upon Master Speakers Pass or otherwise, and to secure such as shall refuse to take the Covenant, until they shall conform thereunto.  
Joh. Brown Cler Parliamentorum.   

Die Sabbathi 5. April. 1645.  
BE it Ordained by the Lords and Commons in Parliament assembled, That all and every person of what degree or quality soever, that hath lived or shall live within the King's quarters, or been siding, assisting, or adhering unto the Forces raised against the Parliament, and hath or shall come to inhabit or reside under the power and protection of the Parliament shall swear upon the holy Evangelist in manner following.  

I A. B. do swear from my heart, That I will not directly nor indirectly adhere unto, or willingly assist the King in this War, or in this Cause against the Parliament, nor any Forces raised without the consent of the two Houses of Parliament in this Cause or War. And I do likewise swear that my coming and submitting myself under the power and protection of the Parliament, is without any manner of design, whatsoever, to the prejudice of the proceedings of the two Houses of this present Parliament, and without the direction, privity, or advice of the King, or any of his Council, or Officers, other than what I have now made known. So help me God, and the Contents of this Book.    
About the 2 of this instant November, we received certain intelligence by Letters from the Northern parts, about Newark, that the King being then in Newark, and extreme strictly eyed and watched by faithful & active Major General Poyntz, 
Shelford-house stormed and taken by valiant Major Gen. Poyntz.  and that he could not stir any whither, but still the Major General was on his back molesting his designs, and especially, he, at this time, lying about Shelford House, his Majesty fearing the Major General intended at last, to lock him up within Newark walls, and so at length to block him up for a siege; The King therefore would very fain have been nibbling with him, watching opportunity to dislodge him (if it might be) from so near an offensive neighbourhood, had therefore a purpose (at least made a show thereof) to set upon the Major General, in his quarters. But the sedulous and watchful Major General being too circumspect to be so caught asleep upon his Couch of Security, and having timely notice of a party of the kings out of Newark approaching toward him, had his forces in a fit and defensive posture; which also the enemy by their Scouts understanding, immediately they turned their course back again to Newark and durst do nothing upon them. Whereupon the noble and most active Gen●rall resolved that now he would do something on the Enemy, and that to purpose too; and thereupon fell close upon Shelford-House, a strong Garrison of the Enemies) sent a Summons to the Governor which was flatly denied, 
Shelford-house summoned.  by reason that they expected (and made no doubt of) speedy relief by Newark horse; which as was briefly touched before, failed them, they only making a show as if they would have helped them, but presently faced about and very peaceably departed to Newark. And now also the Major General having received an additional strength from valiant and active Colonel Rossiter, he presently, on the foresaid denial, stormed the House and very resolutly got over the works, 
The House taken.  which was, indeed gallantly defended by the enemy, and disputed most hotly on both sides for about half an hour's space, at the swords point; the Enemy (standing upon their honour, fortunes, and strength of their works) choose rather to die in their obstinacy than to ask for quarter, upon which their desperate pertinacy (there being about 180 of them in the house) most of them suffered by the edge of the sword, 
A sore slaughter made in the House by the Enemy's obstinancy.  for we slew above 140. and gave quarter, not to above 30. or 40. at most, among whom was the Governor, Son to the Earl of Chesterfield, who had received many dangerous wounds, and some ('twas believed) mortal. Now this strong Garrison being thus subdued, we had thereby much fairer opportunity and accommodation for the besieging of Newark; but yet for the present, Major General Poyntz his design was next for Worton, whereof more in its more proper place.  
Much about the same time we had credible information by Letters out of the North, 
Digbyes late scattered forces being rallyed again, are again met with and miserably mangled and brought to nothing.  that since the routing of that brave upstart Commander the Lord Digbies forces upon C●rlile-Sands, forementioned, His scattered forces which remained after that rout, being afterward rallyed together again into a body, they marched toward Dumfreez in Scotland but were happily met with all again; some of them by Sir john Browne of fordel, who fought with them, put them to flight and took 100 more of them. Another party of them that fled toward Beeston-Castle, were encountered by Colonel Brigges, and the Lancashire forces and 200 more were taken by 〈◊〉 also. Likewise above 〈…〉 of them flying through 〈…〉 withal, by Major General Van- 〈◊〉▪ So that the 〈◊〉 party of 1600. of the King's prime horse under the Conduct of Digby that 〈…〉 now turned 〈◊〉 General 〈◊〉- man, was thus 〈◊〉 spoiled & taken; only Digby himself, and La●gdale, the Lord 〈◊〉 Sir William 〈◊〉 and not to more (as was credibly informed) had the unhappy happiness to prolong their shame and-miserie, by escaping in a small Frigate, or Cockboat, or some such like small vessel, to the Isle of Man, there to condole their distress with their as unworthy and ignoble unsuccessful Copesmate the Earl of Derby, Governor of the said Isle.  
And about the 3. Instant we were credibly informed, by Letters out of Wales, that valiant and Victorious Major General 〈◊〉 had taken in Abarashwait, 
Abarashwait, a strong Garrison of the enemies in Cardiganshire taken. Thanks returned to the Lord, on this 5. of November for the happy preservation and Continuation of this present Parliament. Thanks and praises also returned to the Lord by order of Parliament for the City of London's preservation from the plague of Pestilence.  a strong Garrison of the Enemies in Cardiganshire, and therein a Pieces of Ordnance, 200. Arms, and all their Ammunition, Bag and Baggage; So that, now, not only all 〈…〉 but the rest also of Major General Laugh●●●s association i● 〈◊〉 of all the Enemy's forces and Garrisons.  
November the 5. being the 〈…〉 day of solemn thanksgiving, or, the annual 〈◊〉 of England's former wonderful deliverance from that unparallelled (next to this present Epidemical- 〈◊〉 of the 〈…〉, and Atheistical Malignants against this Parliament, and indeed I may say all Christendom where the 〈…〉 Religion was professed) the Popish-Powder-Plot, I say, was with great and accustomed Solemnity observed and kept throughout London and Westminster; And among other things, Comm●●rated on this days Solemn Celebration, the Ministers were desired by Order from the Parliament to return humble and hearty thanks to God, as for the special deliverance (as upon that day) from the Popish intended Powder-Plot (a full and exact History whereof, I myself have written and is extant in print) So likewise, for God's wonderful preservation over, and 〈◊〉 of this present Parliament, now 〈◊〉 5. years together complete; notwithstanding the many most mischievous Plots Diabolical Practices and most Malignant Machinations of the Enemies to have 〈◊〉 and dissolved it. Also 〈◊〉 like humble and hearty thanks and 〈◊〉 should be tended and ascribed to the Lord for his most gracious and merciful continuing this great and most populous City of London in so much health and welfare, especially from the noisome Infection of the Plague of Pestilence, especially, also in such a time, when very many parts of the Countries round about it, were sorely visited and afflicted with it; And the like solemn thanksgiving was ordered, throughout all the Parliaments quarters, a most pious and Commendable act in our most renowned Parliament arie-worthies, and unquestionably wellpleasing to the Lord in Christ Jesus.  
About the 6. of this instant, we received certain intelligence by Letters out of the Northern parts of the Kingdom, concerning the farther active proceedings of that valiant and experienced Commander, 
Worton Garrison surrendered  Major General Poyntz, whose forces were now near unto W●rton (a House belonging to the Lord Caworth) before which they being approached, and all things prepared for a storm, they first summoned the Garrison, and the Enemy thereupon soon condescended to Articles of Agreement for the surrender thereof; viz: to march out the next morning by 10. of the clock, with Arms and Baggage, and the works to be slighted. This House was indeed very strong, but Shelford-Quarter frighted them sorely. There were taken in this Worton-House 150. Arms, 40. Pikes, 3. Barrels of Powder, a proportionable quantity of Match, and Bullet, 2. vessels of strong-beer, and store of other provisions. 
Wiverton Garrison taken.  After this they clapped down before Wiverton-garrison; which they finding to be a very strong place also, the General, upon treat●●, agreed that the Enemy should march away with bag and baggage to Banbury; the Governor thereof, Sir Robert Terrill was a known Papist; And thus also this strong hold was surrendered into the Parliaments possession. Lastly, our forces came before Welbeck, the marquis of Newcastles House, another strong hold of the Enemies where after some agitation and articles agreed upon (one whereof was that Tickbill Castle should be slighted, 
Welbeck-house surrendered.  and we in lieu thereof to have this strong-House slighted also) it was, at last, surrendered and quitted by the Enemy, who marched thence to Newarke, leaving us to slight the House, as was agreed on, and the the Country thereby was brought into much safety and security from former continual danger.  
About the 8. of this instant November, we had unquestionable information out of Wales of the remarkable Overture and change of things, almost over that whole Dominion, especially in the County of Glamorganshire, how the active Gentry and inhabitants thereof did most unanimously unit themselves into a firm confederation for the expulsion of their plundering Enemies, the arenous Royalists, out of their Country, and for putting themselves under the protection and power of the Parliament, that so they might enjoy their houses and estates free from plunder and mine; And that the Reader may see upon what firm and solid grounds these their undertake were most discreetly and advisedly laid, I shall give you an ample fight and satisfaction in this their own ensuing Declaration.  

A Declaration of the Knights. Gentlemen and Freeholders of the County of Glamorgan, 25. Octob. 1645.  
WHereas it hath pleased Almighty God of his infinite goodness to bless the weak endeavours of the well-affected Gentry and Commons, of this County, to free themselves from those overmastering powers, and arbitrary pressures they gr●●●d under, whereof they have been desirous of a long time to be freed, and now by the providence of God are in some measure restored to the Law and undoubted liberties belonging to the freeborn subjects of this Kingdom.  
We have therefore thought ourselves bound to testify before all the world our most hearty and unfeigned thankfulness unto Almighty God for so great a mercy extended toward us. And also our most humble and hearty thanks unto that supreme wise council of this Kingdom the Parliament for their unparallelled and unwearied care of the public, and their particular favours to this our Country, in sending Captain Robert Moulton Admiral of the Seas, and other Gentlemen since to assist and countenance our endeavours against the violence of the enemy of the peace and quietness of the Kingdom. And we do all hereby declare, that albeit being formerly over mastered by forces so far, that we were not able to appear so readily as the duty we owed to his Majesty and the great Council required of us. Yet our affections ever sided and adheared to them, & our firm resolution is from hence forward to hazard our lives for their preservation, who have so long adventured theirs for the good and welfare of the Kingdom; and no longer to be lookers on, but joint labourers, by the direction & protection of the Parliament, in the happy stablishing this kingdom in a happy peace, as far as our exhausted abilities will extend, for the preservation of the true reformed protestant Religion, His Majesty's royal person, prosperity and dignity, the ●oo●ing and preserving, the 〈◊〉 of the 〈◊〉 Kingdoms of England, Scotland 〈…〉, the rights and privileges of the Parliament, the Laws of the Land, which 〈…〉 and property of the Subject.  
All which we will endeavour to maintain with the 〈◊〉 of our lives. And this unfeigned Declaration we 〈◊〉 from our hearts, and ●●●●fie under our hands.   
About the tenth of this Instant we had certain intelligence by various Letters out of the North, of the surrender of Bolton Castle to the Parliament Forces: 
Bolton Castle in the North surrendered.  and that the defendants therein, the Colonel Scroop, and the rest of his Officers and Commanders, had liberty to march away thence to Newark with their Horse and Arms, and the other inferior Officers and Soldiers only with their Swords. There were taken in this Castle about 100 Muskets 50 Pikes, two Barrels of Powder, and good store of other Provisions.  
And much about the same time we had certain information by Letters from Gloucester, 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy near Canon-Froom, and a notable Engine taken from them.  that that valiant and most active Governor of Gloucester had intelligence of a design against Canon-Froom by the Enemy in Hereford, for the storming and surprising of it, with a strange Engine which they had provided for that purpose, and brought along with them; marching thus forth out of Hereford with about 400 men, with their Governor, they only faced the House, and after that wh●●led about toward Malvern Hils, to meet with additional Forces from Worcester, f●lly to besiege it, whereof the Governor of Canon-Froom having knowledge and considering his present dis-furnishment of things necessary to defend the Garrison against a siege or assault, he sent to valiant Colonel Morgan to Gloucester, 
Col. Morgan frights away the Enemy.  praying his assistance, who presently came forth to help him with 500 Horse and 200 Foot, and marched to Ridley, where he joined with 300 of Corstane men, but the Enemy having notice thereof (lying then about Ledbury) posted thence quite away, 
The Engine is left behind.  but had left behind them the strange Engine (which sorely frighted our men at Froom) guarded with two or three Troops of Horse from Hereford, till they returned. In the interim those that had faced Canon-Froom, as was touched before, falling in at Ledbury, in their way to Malvern, to refresh themselves there, a Quartermaster of Canon-Froom, with about twelve only of their Horse, accidentally being forth to view the Coasts and coming through the Town, not knowing of the Roisters being there, fell upon them all, and seeing themselves suddenly engaged cried out Fall one, Fall ane, slew two on the place, and brought away five prisoners, passed by the Engine without much ado, the Enemy It seems being amazed at the sudden onset, and unprovided, some drinking, and others careless of any such attempt, cried Horse, Horse, and went away in a distracted manner, where they surprised the Engine within a mile and half of the place, drove away the Troops that were with it, seized on it, with the two Captains, and many prisoners, and brought all, with their Ladders and other Instruments provided for the storm, to the Garrison of Canon-Froom; upon the coming in whereof, such a shout was made, that all the Country rang of it. The Engine was such a one, as the like hath not been known since these wars: The Roisters called it a Sow. 
The Engine was called a Sow.  It was carried upon great wheels, and to be drawn with Oxen, it was made with rooms or lofts one over another, musket proof, and very strong, out of which were holes to play and shoot out. 
The description of it.  It was so high, that it was above all the Works at Canon-Froom, so that they could discharge over the Works; besides which, a door opened to bring them into the Works, out of which went a Bridge for their entrance. The Garrison was then in such a condition, that had they not been thus disappointed, in all probability this Engine had effected their intended design; but, God be praised, it was prevented. On the Lord's day following, Novemb 9 Master Jackson a Minister in Gloucester, having information thereof in the morning (before Sermon) gave public thanks in the Pulpit, for so great a deliverance, and unexpected, and unlikely preservation.  
About the twelfth of this instant a Messenger from the Right Reverend Assembly of Divines at Westminster, was tendered to both 〈◊〉 of Parliament, therein acquainting them, that according to an Order sent unto them from the Parliament, Novemb. 20. 164●. they had now fully perused the Psalms, 
Master Rouses Psalms approved of by the Assembly of Divines.  translated into English out of the Original Hebrew Tongue, by learned and much honoured Master Rouse, conceiving them very fit to be publicly made use of thorough the Kingdom: and that they had likewise perused the Psalms translated by Master Barton, a reverend and learned Minister of the City of London, who (they acknowledged) deserved much commendation for his great pains and abilities therein also; but conceived the other most fit for public use, which were accordingly authorized by the Parliament, whereof more in its due place.  
And about the 14 of this instant Novemb. we were certainly informed that Colonel Sir Thomas Aston (lately before made Lord Ashton, forsooth) who in the beginning of this Parliament was a mighty stickler for the Prelates, and a chief Agent to get hands to Petitions for supporting of the Bishop's Hierarchy, 
A brave defeat given to the Lord Ashton, and himself slain therein.  and was one of their grand Champions of a Laic, as they termed them, to write in defence of them:) That this Ashton, I say, came with a party to seek some additional relief for the King his Master about Dudley Castle, and those parts, of whose design valiant, active, and loyal Colonel Stone, Governor of Stafford, having intelligence, sent out a party, and encountered him in the way, who soon routed all his party, which was in number about 100 Horse or more, took at least 80 of them, slew some on the ground, sorely wounded the said Lord Ashton, who within a seven night after (as was for certain informed) died of his wounds (yet he lived to see his darling Episcopacy and many base apostatising Bishops to die and fall before him, a just increment and addition to his other wretchedness,) the remainder of his Horse which was about twelve or sixteen at most, fled for their lives to Worcester, to carry news of their Leaders good success and fair recruit in that design. And much about the same time we were also credibly informed that Major blundel of Reading, with a party of Horse, met with a party of the Kings, the most of them being Gentlemen of his Life Guard, 
About forty of the King's Life Guard surprised by Major blundel of Reading.  near unto their Garrison at Wallingford, where they were most jovially revelling in their Nectar-Cups, all whom he there suddenly surprised, being about 40 of them, and carried away with him prisoners to Reading, without any resistance.  
Upon the 17 of this instant November, the anniversary commemeration of the happy and blessed inauguration or coronation of that most peerless and precious Princess of ever blessed memory, eternally to be renowned pious, magnanimous and Heroic Queen Elizabeth, was still, even to this day, most solemnly celebrated in the famous and faithful City of London, 
The just and glorious commemoration of rare and renowned Queen Elizabeth on the 17 of November.  and in some places Sermons preached on her most happy memorial, and thus incessantly hath continued, notwithstanding her so long decease above 40 years; In which regard, this (me thinks) is a most remarkable note, and worthy most Christian serious observation with all true English Protestants and sincere Christians, (and which I desire the godly Reader to take special notice of, as most pertinent to these times) that, notwithstanding, I say, her so long decease, she should still so constantly and cheerfully be so highly honoured, and so zealously remembered (being as it were most deeply engraven with indelible Characters of gratitude and joy) in the hearts of the heartiest surviving Subjects of this Kingdom, yea, and their posterity after them, and that for so many years together after her death, verifying that faithful word of the Lord, Them that honour me, 
1 Sam. 2. 30. Psal. 112. 6.  I will honour. And that of the holy Prophet David, The righteous shall be had in everlasting remembrance. Whereas her immediate Successor King James (which makes the wonder indeed remarkable) a Prince, I confess, learned and wise (after the world's esteem,) yea, and bred and brought up in the Protestant Religion all his days, 
A brief, but bad and sad mention of King James his life and death.  and in his reign in Scotland held a precise Puritan, but managing his whole Reign in the Kingdom of England in such an unresolved way (to say no more) for God and true piety, and in such a doubling condition 'twixt Protestantisme and Popery, as extremely encouraging Popish Jesuits and tyrannical Prelates in both their impious and Antichristian ways and wiles, even to the (then) brewing, and (now, and of late times before) broaching of all these most bloody and pernicious modern mischiefs, now (most justly) fallen upon us, even now, I say, in his most unhappy Sons days, and all for our so juggling dealings with our God, in (then) turning true piety into mere policy and machivilianisme, and in our now of late more evident base backslidings from our first Love, the Lord Jesus.  
See therefore, I say, (good Reader) how our most wise and just God hath chose verified that righteous saying of his, They that despise me shall be lightly esteemed. 
1 Sam. 2. 30. Prov. 10. 7.  And that of the wise King Solomon, The name of the wicked shall rot. For, ever since King James his decease, his memory hath perished among his people, who ●●ver since the time of his death to this very day, 
King James quite forgotten in the hearts of his people.  hath had one years annual commemoration of his name and memory, but is extinct and dead in the hearts of his people, as his Corpse lies dead and putrifying in the Urn of his Sepulchre. Whereas, had King James and King Charles his Son, been sincere and cordial indeed to their (but merely pretended) Principles, 
King James and King Charles' not true to their Principles.  of true piety and the Protestant Christian Religion, O how happy had England been? O how glorious and illustrious had the name and memory of these two Princes been to the present age and its posterity! Had, I say, these two immediate Successors of that pious Princess lovely Elizabeth, been as truly zealous for God in the suppression of Popery and Papists, 
King James, King Charles', and Queen Elizabeth paralleled together in point of Reformation.  as she was (who, considering she was but a woman, and began the Work of Reformation first of all, and had therefore a hard pull of it, the light of true Religion then breaking forth with much difficulty, and in a glimmering light and weak twinkling condition, yet was carried on by her, and through Divine assistance, broke forth through the clouds of many and mighty oppositions, especially I mean in Doctrine, to a most fair and hopeful condition.) O, I say, had they closely and faithfully followed this work, how had it, long ere this time, flourished (by God's gracious assistance, who loves truth in the inner parts) and grown up to tall growth, in Discipline also as well as Doctrine, and in all probability, been brought to a great perfection? But, alas, see (in brief) the unhappy difference; She was still guided by her most wise, 
Queen Elizabeth's rule.  grave, and faithful Counsellors (who were all▪ for the most part, brave Statists, and solid Commonwealths men) and by her Parliaments, by which means, and by whose wisdom and providence, not only the Protestant Religion was strongly established, but the Trade of the Kingdom, abroad and at home, mightily increased, and her happy Subjects marvellously enriched: Whereas, 
King James and King Charles rule.  both King James and his Son King Charles, by their strange juggling and dallying with Religion, and now at last palpably and downright fight against God (though, still, as covertly as they can) led therein by loose, lewd, and upstart Lords and Counselors, Priests and Prelates, who strove strenuously to have made their lust our Laws, 
Parliaments made the King's Stalking Horses to get Subsidies.  rejecting to be ruled by their Parliaments, but making these only their Staulking-Horses, to get money for the something of their illegal designs, and their dissolving them, without any redress of grievances, thus introducing all kinds of oppression upon the Subject's Estates, bodies and souls, by mere and monstruous Arbitrary Tyranny: Thus, I say, making not only themselves, but also their formerly famous and flourishing Kingdoms, 
Arbitrary Tyranny.  (as much as in them lay) most unhappy every way, being most miserably impoverished, and almost totally and most ruthfully ruinated, 
The Power of godliness to be beaten down.  and all this, I say, by juggling with Religion (in the prime place) and dallying and dissembling with the Lord, who (though we ourselves may be herein easily deceived) cannot be mocked, 
Popery or profaneness to be set up; in Germanies blood.  and all this to beat down the power of godliness, and to set up Popery or Atheism and Prophanasse; for confirmation of all which, witness, O witness, the Oceans of Christian blood shed all over desolate Germany, and in special the ruruine of the Palatinate, and King James his Offspring, all which let England judge, if England might not have timely saved in King James his time, if King James had pleased, witness the blood of most woefully ruinated Rochel, 
Roc●els and the Isle of Rees blood.  and all the brave English blood spilt in the Isle of Ree, in King Charles his days, witness, O witness, the late most lamentable Irish Massacree of almost 200000 English innocent souls there, 
Ireland's blood.  far worse than so many dogs destroyed. Yea, witness all the (still) fresh gashes and bleedings, or rather gushing streams, nay floods of blood, of Scotland and England to this day: 
England and Scotland's blood.  To say no more of other secret streams of blood which Heaven, the most righteous revenger thereof, will certainly reveal and vindicate in his due time) and all this for the impious enjoyment of a cursed Spanish Match, 
Other blood not yet revealed.  and the satisfying of the lust of a Popish Lady, a proud Prelatical and Atheistical inconsiderable party of consciencelesse Cabinet-Counsellors, 
The Authors of all this.  and juggling Junctoe's (of whom the Law takes no notice) whose only aims, interests and engagements herein, have been to ruinate Religion in the power and purity of it, and to open a wide gushing sluice to Popery and Atheism, and base slavery of bodies and souls, 
The crafty colour of all this.  upon the poor miserable abused and seduced Subject, and all, under the specious (but most fallacious) vales and vizards of Protestantisme, unity and universal conformity. Pardon, good Reader, I pray thee, this somewhat large digression, if so I may call it, yet, certainly, a very necessary one, and whereunto I have been thus far transported by my ardent zeal and fervour for God and my distressed Country, especially being thereunto fairly led by occasion of this 17 of Novembers happy commemoration of that precious Paragon of her age and sex, eternally to be renowned Queen Elizabeth. But now to proceed.  
About the 20 of this instant November, we had certain intelligence by Letters out of the West, that a Bark going from Falmouth toward Foy, 
A brave prize taken at Sea by Plymouth Garrison.  laden with Kerseyes to the value of 1500 l. was (by some neglect of the Mariners, and a great mist which happened at Sea) driven into a creek, near Plymouth, from whence a Boat was sent to demand and know whom they were for, the Mariners thinking themselves to be in his Majesty's Quarters, answered, They were for the King. Hereupon our boat left them, and acquainting the Governor of Plymouth therewith, he sent forth several Boats, with Musketeers to take the Bark, which they did, after some resistance, and some few slain on both side, and so brought it safely into Plymouth, to be made use of for the King and Parliament.  
And about November the 24. we also received certain information by Letters out of Gloucestershire of a brave defeat given to the Enemy in those parts, which also was confirmed by another Letter, especially from Malmsbury, the substance whereof was as followeth: That upon occasion of planting and fortifying a Garrison for the Parliaments party by renowned and active Colonel Morgan, the valiant and faithful Governor of Gloucester, at Sir Henry Fred. 
A brave defeat given to the enemy in Gloucestershire, where Major Duet, that French Renegado was slain.  Thynnes House, at Kempsford, in that County; the Enemy belonging to Rad-Court and Farringdon, being enraged at it, and much offended that they should have a troublesome neighbour so near them, to straighten and curb their former accustomed excursions into the Country for contribution-money and plunder: They therefore came forth with a party of about 30. horse to impede and disturb their works begun. Whereupon Captain Moor (who had the Command of Malmsbury foot, left at Letchlad by Colonel Morgan) drew out 60. Musketeers, with which he bravely flankt the Enemy, slew 2. of them, shot their Captain in the thigh, and so made retreat; but this their Commander swore in a rage, that they would ere long be avenged upon our forces, and thereupon they presently fetched in unto them Major Duet (that French-Renegado and base apostate from the Parliaments service, who, since his defection, had been a Scourge and vexation to those parts, though most Commonly with loss to himself) who came that very evening with 100 foot and 120. horse, purposing to have surprised ours in their works, and now to be revenged on them, for his friends former repulse; but valiant and vigilant Captain Moor timely discovered them, sent out another party of Musketters, and the Gloucester-horse thereabout, having taken the Alarm, drew forth also to the Encounter, set fiercely upon the Enemy, 
Major Duet slaire.  put them to the rout; pursued the chase, mortally wounded Major Duet himself, unhorsed him, threw him into the dire, where, within 4 or 5 hours after, he was found dead (a just hand of God now, at last, upon such a disloyal and faithless apostate from the honest Cause which he first undertook) they also slew another Captain and 20. 
The prisoners and prizes taken.  more Common Soldiers, upon the place, took 30. prisoners whereof one was a Corner, and 5. of the King's Lifeguard, 40. horse, and 60 fire-armes, And thu● having by God's great mercy (to whom alone be all the praise and glory thereof) chased them close to Rad-cot-Bridge even almost to their very works, they returned victoriously safe to their Garrison, without the lose of any one man of theirs slain, only 2. or 3. wounded, but not mortally.  
Finally, about the latter end of this November it pleased the Lord to put into the hearts of our most prudent and provident Parliamentarie-Statists, for the more luculent and clear manifestation of their heart's integrity to manage all matters for the greater honour of that great and supreme Court of Parliament, 
A Notable testimony of the Parliaments integrity touching Protections and Bribes.  and the fairer evidence of their own personal sincerity in and about the same; to take into their serious debate, the great prejudice which many have received by protection of Members of Parliament, and their servants or attendants, and therefore, how the same might be remedied for the future. The result whereof came, at last, to this issue, that they appointed a Committee of New elected Members, who were to meet certain days, weekly, with power to hear and examine complaints of such as have suffered in that nature. And also to receive such complaints as shall upon just ground be brought against any Member of Parliament for taking of Bribes or for any other act of injustice whatsoever. Certainly such acts of justice as these (especially being faithfully and effectually carried on) will make this (already) most famous Parliament much more famous and illustrious to all posterity, and cannot but most justly stop the mouths of all malicious-hearted Malignants and others who have or shall endeavour injuriously to scandalise their honourable proceedings.  
And here, now, again (good Reader) let me desire thee to stay a while to make a most grateful review, & there in to admire the rare and remarkable Parliamentarie-mercies of this month also, in the clear and most demonstrative ratification of this admirable wonder of the Burning-Bush still unconsumed, 
The Burning-Bush unconsumed.  and rarely kept and recovered from the many menaced distractions of it, by the incessant assailant furious flames and conflagrations flashing continually round about it, as hath been most apparently seen and set forth, both in the Parliaments provident care and Circumspection for the safety and welfare of the Kingdom and City of London, 
1.  in those two excellent Orders against Delinquents. 
2.  In the taking in of Shelford-House; And miserably taring in pieces of the Lord Digbies late scattered forces again rallyed into a body. In the surrender of Abarashwait, a strong Garrison of the Enemy in Cardiganshire into the Parliaments power; And the grateful recordation of the Parliaments happy preservation from the malicious machinations, of the plotting Enemies thereof, since the beginning of it to this present. In the taking in of Worton-Garrison, Wiverton and Welbeck-house; And the spontaneous falling off of all Glamorganshire from the King's pernicious party. In the surrender of Bolton-Castle in the North to the Parliaments forces; And the brave defeat given to the Enemy at Cannon-Froom, and surprisal (then) of a notable Engine for battery called, a Sow. In the notable defeat given to the Lord Ashton and his forces, where himself was slain. And the brave prize taken at Sea from the Enemy, by Plymouth Garrison. In the brave defeat given to Major Duet, that French renegado and base Apostate, where he himself was slain. And lastly, In the remarkable testimony of the Parliaments integrity, shining forth in that excellent order of theirs against Parliaments protections and taking of bribes. All which graciously and gratefully considered can amount to no less, than a most cordial and comfortable acknowledgement and confession of the Lords unchangeable free grace and unexhaustible bounty to us his most unworthy people of England, even to admiration and astonishment to all our neighbour Nations round about us; And that therefore they may and must most justly cause, yea compellus, with thankful thoughts, 
Psal. 60. 12.  hearts and tongues to confess and say with holy David, Through the Lord alone we have done thus valiantly, and he it is that ●ath thus graciously and gloriously trod down our Enemies. 
Isaiah, 41. 10. 11.  Yea, He it is that hath bidden us not to be afraid of our most potent or politic Enemies, since he is with us; and that we should not be dismayed, because he is our God and mighty defence, who thus hath strengthened us, holpen and upheld us, with the right hand of his power and righteousness. And now (therefore) behold (and beholding, O admire it) all those▪ that were incensed against us are ashamed and confounded; they are even become as nothing and they that stubbornly strove with us are mightily destroyed and perish before us. 
Psal. 116,  O, then, what shall we return to the Lord for all these great and amazing mercies to us? O what are we able to repay to our God for all these free and utterly undeserved favours thus copiously conferred upon us? O let us all faithfully and thank fully take the Cup of Salvation and praise the name of the Lord our God, and readily and really pay our vows to this wonderworking God of our Salvation.  
But now to proceed to the yet farther progress of the contemplation and admiration of the continued wonder of the Burning-Bush unconsumed, 
December. 1645.  nay rather, more and more dressed and made to flourish in the midst of the flames of this Month also of December, 1645. And here we shall first begin with some of our loyal and loving Brethren of Scotland's actions about Newarke, whether they being now come in to our assistance, with a very considerable Army of Horse and Foot, to help to besiege this stubborn, rebellious, and very pernicious Town, to bring it under the Parliaments obedience.  
About the beginning of this instant December, 
Newark besieged, and Muschamp Bridge and Fort taken by our Brethren of Scotland.  the Scottish Commissioners received Letters from his Excellency, General Lesley, Earl of Leven, fully informing the particulars of his taking of Muschamp Bridge, by his Forces, viz. That about the 6 of November last, his Army being advanced within about a mile or two of Newark, the General caused a Line to be drawn close to Muschamp-Bridge, and there placed some Musketeers, intending to cross the River and storm the Fort upon the other side; but the Enemy apprehending the design, resolved to cut off the Bridge, and upon the 28 in the morning before break of day, they sallied out upon the Scots, and attempted the cutting off the Bridge, but were most resolutely and bravely beaten from it by the Muketeers with little loss to our friends, which the Enemy perceiving, set fire to the Drawbridge, but the Scots falling stoutly on them again, beat them back, and very closely pursued them, and made them forsake all their Works, and so our valiant Brethren became masters both of the Bridge and strong Fort, and now have very closely besieged that part of the Town. Upon the reading of which Letter in Parliament, the thanks of the Houses were returned to the Scottish Commissioners, and a vote passed, That his Excellency General Lesley, for the better and more orderly managing of the Siege against Newarke, 
General Lesley made Commander in chief of all the Forces both English and Scottish before Newark.  should command in chief all the Forces, as well English as Scottish, before Newarke. Which Vote was fully and freely assented unto by both Houses of Lords and Commons, where now we will leave them till another opportunity, with our prayers for their prosperity in this great work and proceed.  
About the fourth of this instant December, a Letter, Petition, and Declaration of the County of Brecknock in Wales, was presented to the House of Commons, and there read, declaring their firm resolutions to comply with, and wholly to submit unto the commands of the Parliament, 
The County of Brecknock in Wales comes in to the Parliament.  which Declaration, bearing date Novemb. 23. 1645. for the fullness and excellency thereof, and for the Readers better content and satisfaction, I have here inserted verbatim, as it was printed and published by authority; which was as followeth.  
WE the Gentry and Inhabitants of the County of Brecknock, whose names are subscribed, do declare and profess, That we are fully satisfied in conscience, that the two Houses of Parliament now sitting at Westminster, are the true and undoubted lawful Parliament of England, and the supreme Court of Judicature of the Kingdom; To whose judgement and determination we do and will in conscience of our Loyalty, and not by terror or constraint, submit ourselves, our lives and fortunes.  
We are also persuaded and confess, That the Arms taken up and continued by authority of Parliament in this defensive War, are raised and continued in their own just defence, and for the just defence of the Protestant Religion, the Person and Honour of the King's Majesty, the Privileges of Parliament, and the liberty of the Subject; And that the Forces raised or to be raised within the Kingdom of England, or Dominion of Wales, without their consent, are raised and employed for destruction of Parliaments, fomenting and establishing Popery, Prelacy, and an illegal Arbitrary Government.  
In apprehension whereof, we do unanimously resolve, and firmly engage, and undertake that we, with all persons under our power and command, will from henceforward, to the extremest hazard of our lives and fortunes, adhere to, and assist the Forces raised or to be raised by authority of Parliament, against all other Forces raised or to be raised against them, or without their consent; and we shall willingly and cheerfully join with Mayor General Laughorne, and those three associated Counties whereof he is Maior General, and with the County of Glamorgan, with whom we are already associated; and contribute our utmost assistance and endeavours proportionably to the said respective Counties, in such way as Mayor General Laughorn shall think fit, and meetest for the Service of the Parliament.  
And from this resolution and engagement we shall not swerve or recead, by adhering to the contrary party, or imbra●ing a detestable neutrality, either by persuasion dread, or any other motive whatsoever.  
After the reading and debate of this Declaration and the other Papess from the County of Brecknock, it was referred to the Committee of Gloucester to draw a Letter in answer to the same, and inform them how that the Houses of Parliament had granted their requests, and do cheerfully accept of them, and commend their submission and declarative resolutions as aforesaid, etc.  
And about the sixth of this instant, there came Letters to the Speaker of the House of Commons certainly signifying the surrenner of Latham House in Lancashire, a strong and pernicious Garrison which had much infested that County, which, having been the busy, yet cowardly Earl of Darbies' House, had been held and maintained against the Parliaments Forces for the space of two years at least, by the Countess of Derby, (the said Earls Lady) that stout Virago, who proved the better Soldier of the two, and had so long, indeed, bravely maintained the same against us, and was now enforced to yield it up only for want of bread and drink, for they had above six weeks drunk nothing but water, but had store enough of other provisions, and about 200. Common Soldiers. 
Latham House taken.  The Governor alone was to depart with his Horse and Arms, and ten pounds in money; the Officers above the degree of a Lieutenant, only with their Swords: All the rest only with staves in their hands, and to depart to the King's next Garrison, or home to their houses if they pleased, and the House, with all therein, Ordnance, Arms, and Ammunition, to be delivered up for the use of the Parliament. In which there was taken eight Pieces of Ordnance, six Murderers, 500 Arms, with store of other Provisions and Ammunition, with great plenty of rich prizes and pillage. By the reducing of this House, the whole County of Lancashire is now totally set at liberty, and cleared of all its Enemies; and Colonel B●oth, and the other Forces which lay before it, advanced thence toward Chester to join with Sir William Breretons Forces before Westchester.  
About the eighth of this instant, we also received certain intelligence by Letters out of the West, that his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Forces had taken in Fulford House, a strong Garrison also of the Enemies on the other side of Exeter, with all the Arms and Ammunition therein. 
Fulford House taken.  By the taking of which Garrison the way was made fully open to Plymouth, so that our Army there had a free passage to advance for their relief, which not long after was also happily effected, whereof more in its more proper place.  
And now about the 20 of this instant December, Letters were read in the House of Commons, both from Colonel Morgan, and Colonel Birch, fully relating the particulars of the taking of the Town and Castle of Hereford; the substance of both which Letters, together with other unquestionable information whereof, I have here, for the Readers better content and full satisfaction therein, set down a true and exact Narration, which was as followeth.  
Colonel Birch having been not long before in London, 
Hereford surprised and taken by a brave stratagem.  was by Order from the Committee of both Kingdoms, sent post to his Forces at Bristol, for the effecting of some design against the City of Hereford, (which ever since our Brethren the Scots raised their siege thence, was grown very jocund, proud and secure of all danger) from thence he marched to Gloucester, to advise with Colonel Morgan about the design, but finding the way, which was at first intended, altogether frustrate, and the Governor of Gloucester at that time not very well, Colonel Birch went with Sir John Bridges near to Hereford, and sent for thither two Gentlemen with whom Sir John had treated before about matters tending to this business, who were then out of Hereford, fearing to come into the Town; and there Colonel Birch was fully satisfied concerning the Enemy's supine security, and the apparent negligence of the Guards of the Town, being, I say, most fearless of any approaching danger to them.  
And now Colonel Birch consulting again with Colonel Morgan, whom now he found in perfect health, and most active to promote the work; 
Col. Morgan and Col. Birch provide to promote the design.  presently Colonel Morgan provided about 1100 Horse and Foot to join with Colonel Birches 900 Foot, and his own Troop, being about 50 more Horse, which were quartered about Gloucester, to be ready at an hour's warning, whensoever they should be called, and ordered to furnish themselves with knapsacks and provisions for a long march; and so about Monday, Decemb. 15. they began to march from Gloucester, at which time, the snow being almost knee deep, they were constrained to march in file one by one, both Horse and Foot, and so to keep one tract, intending to reach to Hereford that night; but, 
The Soldiers sore march the first setting forth.  I say, the snow was so deep, and the weather so extreme cold, that the Foot Soldiers had a very hard march, insomuch that three of them died by the way, the Foot being to beat their way thorough the snow. Here Colonel Morgan and Colonel Birch were constrained to make an halt before they had marched within six miles of Hereford, but their forlorn hope had marched within two miles thereof, and were so near engagement, that they came not off without some difficulty: But the two gallant Commanders finding that they were discovered (the better to colour their business) marched back half way to Gloucester with part of their foot, and lodged them at Ledburie, 10. or 12. miles from Hereford, and others of their horse marched almost to Gloucester. After which, having rested their foot (and the Enemy now conceiving that they were marched back and quite gone) suddenly, on Wednesday, December the 17. about 9 of the clock they marched again toward Hereford, 
The whole army come near unto Hereford.  the same way and in files, as before, and came by midnight within twice Musket-shot of Hereford, and there rested the whole body of the Army, being 2000 Horse and foot effective. Now here I must remember you, that Colonel Birch, as you heard before, had been in these parts 4. or 5. days before to lay the design, and to view the ground with those worthy Gentlemen fore mentioned, Sir John Bridges and the others; At which time, it pleased the Lord to put an excellent prize and opportunity into their hands, which they accordingly, (by God's assistance) wisely made an excellent improve meant of, and which took also most answerably. For about that time Scudamore, the Governor of Hereford had sent out a warrant under his own hand to the High Constable of an adjacent Town for Labourers to be sent into Hereford, to break the ice about the City; now this warrant they had happily laid hold on, and taken, from the high-Constable, the substance of which warrant was thus:  

THese are straightly to Charge and Command you to send to my Garrison at Hereford out of your hundred, 
A Copy of the warrant which helped to win Hereford.  a hundreth able men, with spades, Shovels, Pickaxes, and other necessaries fit for Pioneers, for his Majesty's Service, whereof you are not to sail, as you will answer the contrary, at your utmost peril.  
Barnabas Scudamore Given under my hand this 14. of Decemb. 1645.   
Now the Governor of Gloucesters' Secretary had made a return to this warrant, as from the high Constable of the hundred, expressing; That he had now sent the Constable of such a Town with 6. men to work, the rest were to follow. And upon this ground Colonel Birch had plotted and contrived the work as followeth; 
The manner of managing the business with the Constable and his warrant.  He had provided 6. faithful and resolute men, in the form of Labourers, and one more with them (a stout and resolute Lieutenant) to be as a Constable with this warrant to bring thos● his Townsmen to work in the City; To whom (for their present encouragement) he had given a good sum of money in hand and had promised them a larger reward on their faithful performance, which accordingly they all did, as now you shall hear. These 6 men and their Constable, together with 150. firelocks, in the dark of the night, lodged near the Gate of the City in one of the burnt houses, within Pistol shot of the bridge, even as near as the ground would possibly admit; In all which time, ours with careful Spies and Scouts kept back all intelligence from the Enemy, So that they never discovered or suspected us, after our first retreat toward Gloucester▪ Now I say, these Firelocks, were for the better managing of the business, left to Colonel Birches Leiutenant Colonel Hammond; who, indeed, carried the business bravely and behaved himself most gallantly therein; and the main body of foot, Colonel Birch himself led, and Colonel Morgan the horse, but the forlorn hope of horse, which were first to enter, was Commanded by brave Captain Temple. These things being thus designed, in the morning after that the trevalley was beaten, and upon the first letting-downe of the drawbridge, 
The drawbridge is let down.  3. men came out of the City, not discerning any body (the Firelocks lay so close) and now the Constable, with a hedgebill on his shoulder and the other 6. Soldiers, like homely Country Labourers, with spades and Mattocks, came forth to their work; and the 3. foresaid men went along on their way, seeing none else, till they came beyond the hill, and then perceiving our men, they spoke pretty loud to themselves, What do all these men here? Whereupon they were instantly surprised and snapt-up, and so could not stir back to give any notice of aught they saw. And now the Constable and 〈◊〉 Labourers were come to the Draw-bridge, where the guard began to examine them; The Constable told the Sentinel, that he was come to do his work with those workmen according to his warrant from the Governor, which they presently desired to see; the Constable showed it him, and so he and the rest looking on it, to read it, the 6. men came close to them, and were now on the top of the bridge, and as they were reading the warrant the Constable with his hedge-bill knocked down the Sentinel who instantly fell down dead at his feet, 
The Constable knocks down the Sentinel.  the other Labourers killed 2. more of them and so all these 7. kept the others in play bus●ing at the Bridge, to over master them, all which Lieutenant Colonel Hammond seeing who stood on the top of the hill to watch the Event, 
The Firelocks rush out and haste to the City.  and so gave the sign to all the Firelocks, by holding up and shaking his Hat unto them, even all the 150. that lay couched in the house; whereupon, out they all rushed, and came speedily, but yet orderly to the Bridge where they found the Constable and his Labourers, close at their work, indeed, and so the Firelocks making way for the horse, and the horse close following them, over the Bridge they got, and into the Town they entered, Captain● Temple and Sir John Bridges marched on in the forlorn hope of horse, Lieutenant Colonel Hammond with the forlorn hope of Firelocks, and Captain Aldern with the reserve of foot; and thus I say, they entered bravely; Captain Temple with his horse-troop doing special good service, making his way to the mainguard, where his horse was shot under him, and he fought so stoutly that his sword also was broken in his hand to the very hilt, and three of his Troopers only being slain, which was all the loss that we sustained of our men in this whole work and some wounded. The Commanders both of horse and foot, I mean especially both Colonel Morgan and Colonel Birch, did most excellent service, from the first to the last of this brave service, and so did the rest of the Commanders and Officers, and went on so gallantly and undauntedly (notwithstanding that they and their Soldiers had lain out all that cold night) that they quickly seized on all the guards, 
The Town fully entered, and obtained.  insomuch that at last many of the Enemy had got through the market place up to their chambers, and thence discharged their Muskets and Pistols upon our men (and many of the Malignant Townsmen did the like out of their windows) which so enraged our men that they slew 8. in the streets; but when the Enemy saw our men come in so fast and in great numbers, they cried out for quarter. By this means the Soldiers fell to●●●●ndering and rifling, and took what they could catch, from which the Governor of Gloucester Colonel Morgan could by no means restrain them, for they accounted all their own in regard they entered the City by an ouslat and had so much opposition; And thus by 12. of the clock that night they had fully got the whole City and taken most of their prisoners. This mercy was wonderful unto us let the Lord have all the honour and praise thereof, who made in so successful unto us in all the particulars of it from the first to the last.  
A List of the prisoners and prizes thus taken in Hereford, by Collell Morgan, Governor of Gloucester, and Colonel Birch, now made Governor of Hereford. THe Lord Brudenell, the Bishop of Hereford, by name, Doctor Cook, Sir Fra. Howard, Sir Marmaduke Floyd, Sir Henry Beding-field, Sir Walter Blunt, and 2. 
Lords and Knights 21. in number.  more of the Blunts, both Knights also and Papists, Sir Rich. Kennish, Sir Richard Weston, Sir Thomas Lunsford, Sir George Vaugham, Sir Gyles Mumpessons, Sir John Stepney, Sir Fra. Lloyd, Sir Philip Jones, Sir Edw. Morgan Sir Nicholas Throgmorton, Sir Richard Basset▪ 
Lieutenant Colonels and Majors, 10. in number, besides Judge Jenkins.  Sir Henry Spiller, Sir Roger Bodingham, Lieutenant Colonel Price, Lieutenant Col. Jones, Lieutenant Colonel Lewes, Lieutenant Colonel Tooley, 
Many Gentl. of Quality.  and Lieutenant Colonel Jefferies; Major Mathewes▪ and Major Sayer, Major Lewis, Major Roberts, 
At least 2000 Papists.  Major Price; and also Judge Jenkins. Captains, 9 Secretary Barnes; 4. Leivtenants 3. Cornets one Ensign, one Quartermaster; one Commissary 2. Gentlemen of worth and quality, besides Mounseiur Peter Morlet, French Gent. 3. Surgeons; together with many other Officers and Troopers of worth and quality; and by the relation of the Townsmen, there were at least 2000 Papists of all conditions then in the Town, who had fled hither for their security, since the taking of Chepstow and other places there abouts. We took there also 12. pieces of Ordnance, but as for the rest of the Magazine and Ammunition, there was not then a full account given thereof it being then so scattered and dispersed in the Town.  
Of what consequence this Town is unto us, may appear in that the whole County of Hereford is (by thus obtaining of this City) brought into the obedience of the parliament; 
The great consequence of the obtainning this City.  and not only so, but all South-Wales, and a good Omen for the reducing of Ragland Castle, all provisions and intercourse being stopped out of Wales also to Worcester and Ludlow, and the Enemies of other Garrisons thereabout, being by this means in a fair way of reduction, to the Parliament, this next Spring, by the gracious assistance of our good God.  
Colonel Morgan's Secretary, 
The Messengers of this good news to the Parliament rewarded.  who first brought the intelligence of this so gallant piece of service to the Parliament, had 50 l. given him for his pains therein; and Colonel Birches Messenger had 20 l. given to him also, by Order from both Houses of Parliament.  
And the Parliament taking into serious consideration, 
Orders of Parliament voted and confirmed upon this great providence of God.  the extraordinary providence, and unexpected (much more immerited) mercy of God, in thus gaining this strong City, and that with so little loss of blood, made thereupon these several Orders following:  
First, 
1  That on the next Lord's Day bounden thanks should be rendered to Almighty God, for this great mercy, by the Ministers in their several Congregations throughout London and Westminster, and the Lines of Communication.  
Secondly, 
2  That Colonel Birch should be Governor of Hereford, and the Committee of both Kingdoms to send him his Commission, and that his Regiment should be recruited to 1200 men, according to his own desire.  
Thirdly, 
3  That 6000 l. should be charged on the Excize, and forthwith paid in, to be at the disposal of the Committee of both Kingdoms, for the payment of his Forces, and to discharge his engagements to his Soldiers, for their activity and fidelity in this design.  
Fourthly, 
4  That 1600 suits of clothes, knapsacks, shoes and stockings, should be speedily sent to the Common Soldiers of the Garrison of Gloucester, that had so great a hand in the performance of this great and good service in thus taking of Hereford.  
And fifthly▪ 
5  and last, The House of Commons religiously and piously considering this business to be the work of God alone, and that his hand was chiefly visible in it: They therefore to improve this mercy to Gods farther and future honour and glory, took into their most serious consideration the settling of able and faithful Preachers, both in Gloucester and Hereford, and for that purpose there was an Ordinance t●ice read and committed for the uniting of several Churches in the City of Gloucester into one only Congregation, and allowed among them 300 l. per annum, 
Great gratitude expressed by the Parliament, both to God and man, for this great mercy.  to be paid to the respective Ministers of them, out of the Revenues of the Dean and Chapter of that City, a●d the disposal of them to be in the power of the Mayor, aldermans, and Common-council of that City, and the vacant meeting-places in the City to be set apart for a Library, an English-Schoole, a Magazine for Arms, and other public uses, for the honour of that famous and faithful City. Also, that a confirmation should also be made of all the Lands, Liberties, and Franchises heretofore granted under the Great Seal of England, unto this said City and Corporation. And likewise for the better encouragement of the Soldiers of that City, the House Ordered that 30 l. a week should be paid to the Officers of the Trained Bands, that do service at the Mainguard thereof, there being near 200 that do constant duty there. And shortly after also Lieutenant Barrow, (for, so was his name, that so neatly and notably acted the Constable's part, whereby we thus became possessors of Hereford, being come to London, was admitted into the House of Commons, where he made a narrative of the whole business to the House, and afterward being ordered to withdraw, the House ordered that 100 l. should be forthwith issued out of Haberdashers-Hall to the said Lieutenant Barrow, 
Lieutenant Barrow, the pretended Constable, rewarded by the Parliament.  for his present support, and further ordered, That the sum of 50 l. per annum should be conferred on him and his heirs for ever, for this his gallant undertake in that service, to be truly paid him out of the Estate of Sir Henry Lingen, a notorious Delinquent near Hereford. A rare and singular act of encouragement to stir up the hearts of honest and active Soldiers to cheerful industry and fidelity in this the Parliaments most just and righteous Cause. And now put all these together, and then say, was not here an ample and pious retribution of bounden gratitude, both to God and men, his Instruments for this great goodness and mercy to us? yes certainly, and therefore most worthy to be recorded to Posterity, for the Parliaments indelible honour. But now to proceed.  
About the 23 of this instant December, we had certain intelligence by Letters out of the West, 
Canon-Tean, a strong Fort, taken at Exeter.  that our most renowned General Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Forces had taken Canon-Tean, a strong Fort or Blockhouse of the Enemies, by which means they had the command well-nigh of all the River of Ex; it was gained by storm, and they found among those of the Enemies slain in the enterprise, a Lieutenant Colonel, and two Captains, and divers Common Soldiers, and that after the taking thereof, there came voluntarily in unto Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Forces thereabout, a Cornet of the Enemies, with 30 good Horse, who had revolted from them. Also by other Letters out of the West, we were certainly informed, that a party of his Excellency's Forces there had taken in another strong Garrison of the Enemies, lying upon the said River, 
Callyntine House taken.  West of Excetor, called Callyntine House, and therein between thirty and forty Horse, as many prisoners and their Arms; by the gaining of which place the Enemy is much more straitened than before, and the passage upon the River is quite blocked up.  
And about Decemb. 26. the House of Commons received Letters from the Northern parts of the Kingdom, of the rendition of the strong Garrison of Skipton Castle, which had been long besieged by our Forces, the Enemy having had fair Conditions and clear performances of the same, 
Skipton Castle surrendered to the Parliament.  viz. To march away with their Arms, either to Newarke, Oxford, or Hereford, of the taking whereof, it seems they then had not had information or knowledge. Now upon the reading of this Letter, the House referred the further consideration thereof to the Committee of the North. This surrender of Skipton Castle in Craven, was, no doubt, of very great consequence; for by this means, not only all York shire, is cleared and happily reduced to the obedience of the Parliament, but also all Northumberland, 
The Freedom of almost all the Northern parts.  Cumberland, Westmoreland, and Lancashire, the Enemy not having any one Garrison in their hands in all those parts of the Kingdom, nearer than is Newark. A wonderful mercy indeed, and most worthy our dearest and deepest engagements of 〈◊〉 gratitude to the Lord our most blessed and bountiful Fountain of all our good. And, O that the sweet and serious consideration hereof might raise and rouse up our souls to an earnest and ardent de●ire and endeavour for the building of God's House who thus even in the first place hastens the building of ours.  
And about the latter end of this Month of December, the prudent and provident Senators and Common-council of the most renowned City of London, 
The singular providence of the City of London, and of the Parliament for the defence and safety of the said▪ City.  with a joint and most unanimous consent among themselves, at a Common-council h●ld in their Guild-Hall, resolved, that in regard of the many designs of the Enemy against the said City, 500 Horse should be forthwith raised for the 〈◊〉 thereof, and to prevent any audacious mutinies or insurrections that might probably happen, by reason of the multitude 〈◊〉 Delinquents and Royalists, which were then la●●ly come out of the King's Quarters; And that the Guards of the City should be doubled, and that every one should contribute according to their ability, toward the maintenance thereof. And the Commons in Parliament, likewise referred it to a Committee to consider how the prisoners in the Tower of London might be secured, removed, or confined to their Chambers, and that they might be prevented from giving or holding any correspondence unto and with the Enemy: And the said Committee was likewise to consider, in like manner, of all the other Prisons in London, and to prevent intelligence between them also and the Enemy. And immediately after it (for the more fully enabling of the said renowned City, to terrify and over-awe their open and secret Enemies) the House of Commons passed an Ordinance for the establishing of a court-martial in the said City of London, for the trial of Spies and other noxious Delinquents, who shall come out of the King's Quarters, to lurk and watch for opportunities of doing mischief, and named several Commanders and Gentlemen who were to be Members of that Council.  
And here, now, good Reader, be pleased again to make a little pause, seriously to ponder and consider in thy most thankful heart, the unexhaustible overflowings in bounty and blessings, and the unwearied out-going of thy wonderworking God, in this Months mighty mercies also, and most memorable benedictions on this his blessed Burning-Bush still unconsumed, 
The Burning-Bush not consumed.  still marvellously preserved and maintained in a most fair and flourishing state and condition, maugre the many and mighty flames of the fiery and restless rage of the Royalists, continually menacing and molesting the same, as hath been most copiously discovered, both in our most loyal and loving Brethren of Scotland's faithful and valiant assistance in the besieging of Newarle, and their brave winning of Muschamp Bridge and Fort there: And the voluntary submission of the County of Brecknock in Wales, to the obedience of the Parliament. In the obtaining of that pernicious den of robbers, I mean that strong Garrison of Latham House in Lancashire, and Fulford House in the West. In the most remarkable and happy surprisal of the Town and Castle of Hereford, by a notable stratagem, wherein the hand of God was most admirably evident. In delivering that strong Fort of Canon-Tean; and that strong Garrison of Callyntine-House at Exeter into the Parliaments possession, and thereby strengthening ours, and weakening the Enemy's hands. In the happy rendition of Skipton Castle, also a strong hold of the Enemies into our hands, whereby almost all the Northern parts of the Kingdom were set at liberty. And sixthly and lastly, In putting into the hearts of our Worthies in Parliament, and the loyal Citizens of London, prudently and providently to foresee future probable contingent dangers, and carefully to forecast to prevent and avoid them. All which rare and remarkable Parliamentary Mercies, gratefully and graciously put together, give us great cause with holy David to sing and say, 
Psal. 62. 7, 8.  In God the Lord alone is our salvation and our glory, the rock of our strength, and our sure refuge is in God. O therefore let us trust in him at all times, and pour out our hearts before him, in all holy and humble acknowledgements, that God alone is a refuge unto us. But to go on.  
And now I shall again begin the serious survey of the rich and rare mercies of God to this his Burning-Bush the Parliaments Cause, 
January. 1646.  in this ensuing Month of January, with a memorable passage of fidelity in the Governor of Plymouth Colonel Kerre, who having been most vehemently tempted by Sir John Digby, Brother to the traitorous George Lord Digby, who then commanded in chief those Forces of the Kings, which so long had besieged this brave and loyal Town of Plymouth, this young treacherous Royalist, I say, having by Letters, Messages, and mighty promises of a reward of 10000 l. in money, and high preferment in the King's Army, endeavoured to entice the noble and loyal Governor to betray and give up this brave Town into the Enemy's hands: He chose most loyally disdaining such base and treacherous underhand-dealing, returned that traitorous Knight this noble Answer, which for the honour of this brave Gentleman's so faithful resolution, I have thought exceeding fit, here to insert, which was as followeth:  
SIR,  
YOur motion to treason I have seen, and detest it, it is below my spirit for a personal injury (supposed only by an Enemy) to take a national Revenge, and for a punctilio of honour to take advice from Hell, and to betray my trust; I am sorry that one so ingenious as yourself should 〈◊〉 your natural parts only to do mischief, yet I have no reason to ●●der much at your persuasion to treachery, because I have had experience of the endeavour of your Family to corrupt others also; I remember the Gunpowder-plot, and withal, the Letter which not long since your Brother wrote to my Lord Roberts, tending to the same subject, and his negotiation with Major General Browne at Abington: Surely these principles came from Spain, but you should have told me also that Spanish Proverb, To love the Y reason, and hate the Traitor.  
Sir, if my counsel may take with you, than I beseech you to consider of the evil counsel which you and your party have given to his Majesty, whereby the Kingdom, especially those parts under your power, are become almost a desolation. And when you have thought upon the sad effects of these wars, then let your heart tell you this truth, that much of the blood and rapine in this Country must lie upon your account, and guilt may enforce you to seek for terms of Reconciliation, first with God, then with the Representative Body of the Kingdom, whom you have se highly offended: Let not this advice from him whom you call Enemy, be despised, as you hope for mercy, and the respects of him, who according to the national Covenant resolves to be,  
Assuredly your Servant, JAMES KERRE.  
How the young Gallant did blush (if at least he had any shame in him) at the perusal of this Letter, I leave to all the ingenuous Readers to judge. It was a brave letter indeed, and most worthy to live in Cedar, or to be engraven in indelible Marble, and out live them both to this brave Gentleman's eternal honour; which being speedily after made known to the Parliament, was (and that most justly) most gratefully resented by both Houses, and he rewarded with the present gift of 500 l. and most loving assurance of farther preferment on the first and sittest opportunity. And presently after this, the Lord, to show his detestation of all such disloyal traitorous enterprises, as a punishment of this particular impious instigation to this treason, crowned the loyal Governor of this Town of Plymouth with a fair occasion of just revenge, and put a fit opportunity into his hands of singular good success against this Treacherous Enemy, which had there long besieged them, 
Plymouths singular good success against their besieging Enemies▪ Canterbury Fort taken.  which was intimated by Letters to a worthy Member of the House of Commons in Parliament, in their taking of 2. Forts from the Enemy, which had been a great annoyance to those our loyal friends and by which victory they then got more elbowroom and liberty to enlarge their quarters than before, the particulars whereof were as followeth. Our men, after a small dispute, took from the Enemy Canterburie-Fort, and in it 17. Prisoners; And afterward marched to Saint Bendeaux, 
Saint Beudeaux taken.  where after a hot skirmish of an hour and a half long, our men took the Churchyard, which was strongly fortified and the Church also, and in it, 140. Prisoners, among whom was Major Stukley, a Major of horse, Major Salt, Capt. ●rice, Captain, edmond's, Capt. Lapet, Capt. Baker, 3. Leivtenants, 3. 
The prisoners and prizes taken.  Ensigns, 8. Sergeants, 55. Horse, 2. Barrels of Powder and 100 men's Arms (besides the Arms taken in Canterbury-Foot) with Match and Bullet proportionable; there were 10. of the Enemies slain, 
The slain on both sides.  and 7. of ours, whereof Major Heynes was one, and about 20. more of our men wounded. And thus the Lord was graciously pleased to show favour unto us, that we might justly raise up our hearts with thankfulness unto him.  
About the 6. of this instant Januarie, we had again Letters from our noble General's Army in the West, certifying that his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax and Lieutenant General Cromwell made a general Rendezvouz, and afterward advanced into the Enemy's quarters, resolving either to enforce them to fight, or at least to remove more remotely toward Corn-wall into the quarters from whence they came; 
A brave victory obtained by our Forces at Bovy-Tracy in the West.  And thereupon, a party was drawn up farther West which fell upon them in their quarters at Tracie, and beat them out of them, and out of the field also; and in the pursuit of them, we took 4. Colonels, 3. Leiutenant Colonels, 5. Majors, 11. Capt. and other Officers, 
The prisoners and prizes taken.  7. Colours, whereof one having the Crown, and C. R. upon it; 400. horse at least, 300 Arms, 140 Prisoners, 150. head of cattle, and store of other provisions, designed for the relief of Exeter which, thus, now (blessed be the Lord) came short of it. After this, our renowned General pursuing his victory came to Ilminster, which he also took, with all the ammunition, in it, 
Iminster taken.  where some Commanders of the Enemy had much a do to save themselves, but by throwing good store of money out of windows into the streets among our Soldiers, which whiles they gathered up, the said Commanders and Officers in a dark night (as it was then) escaped by a back way, & saved their lives, whiles our men were tardy to pursue them. After this also our forces advanced to Ashburton, 
Ashburton taken.  but the enemy having received a hot alarm by those that escaped, as before mentioned, they speedily quitted that place also (being then their head quarter) in great Confusion, and amazement, sending their foot one way and their horse another, but our forlorn hope pursued them so fast through the Town of Ashburton that we took above 20 horse, and 9 or 10 prisoners there, and took the Town, with all the Arms and Ammunition in it. Then the General advanced to Totnes, where the Enemy had a Foot Quarter, as having been the Prince's Head Quarter, 
Totnes taken.  where his Life Guard lay, and where indeed we thought the Enemy would have disputed our pass; but our Forces following on close upon them, soon frighted them thence also, took that strong Garrison, with all the Arms and Ammunition in it: yea, and immediately after this also our Army marching and advancing on still, 
Okehampton taken.  reduced Okehampton, a strong Garrison of the Enemy's, to the obedience of the Parliament, where we also took (as was credibly related to me) two Colonels, five Captains, 20 Horse, and many prisoners. And it was credibly informed and assured, that since that overthrow given to the Enemy at Bovie-Tracy, aforementioned, we have taken from them at least 1000 of the Enemy's Prisoners, many of whom were Commanders and Gentlemen, of no small repute in the Prince's Army.  
And hath not the Lord, here, admirably appeared for the comfort and hopeful flourishing condition of this his Burning-Bush, his just and upright Cause? yes certainly, even to the amazement of our Enemies and to the stopping of the black and foul mouths of Malignant envy itself; for ever glorified and omnified be our wonderworking God for it. But to proceed.  
About the tenth of this instant, two Letters were read in the House of Commons from the Commissioners for the Parliament, residing in Ireland, the one dated the 19 of Novemb. 1645. from Belfast, the other the 22 of Decemb. last, from the same place, relating the great and singular good success which it pleased God to give to our handful of Forces under the conduct and command of Sir William Cole, 
The most brave victory over the Rebels in Ireland at Sligo.  Sir Charles Coot, and Sir Francis●Hamilton, against the Rebels in Ireland, in the Province of Cannaught and Ulster, and particularly and especially of that most memorable and remarkable deliverance and great victory over them at Sligo▪ And upon reading of the said Letters, the House ordered that the next Lord's Day the Ministers in their several Churches within London and Westminster, should return humble and hearty thanks to Almighty God for this great Victory. And that the Reader may the better see what cause we have in an extraordinary manner to congratulate and give thanks with our Brethren, for the same, and for the Readers better content and satisfaction, as also because this Victory hath no small influence upon, and reference unto the great and present affairs of our own Kingdom, as in the sequel you will clearly see, I have therefore here thought it very fit and pertinent to our present history, to insert the particulars of that brave and famous Victory, which was as followeth:  
On Sunday the 17 of October last, the Irish Rebels having surrounded Sligo with 1000 Foot, and 300 Horse, the Garrison seeing little hope of the advance of the Ulster Forces (who were then near them at Bandron) though unknown to them, conceived it absolutely necessary to hazard the fight with the Rebels with their own strength, and Sir William Coles Troops, rather than to starve themselves and lose their out Garrisons which were blocked up, the Enemy lying between them; Captain Richard Coot and Captain Richard Cole commanded our Horse being two hundred, who charged the Rebel's Horse very resolutely, and fell in to the sword pell mel, and beat them among the divisions of their own Foot, and routed them, which Lieutenant Colonel Saunderson seconded with the Foot, and Sir Francis Hamilton came also with his Troops in the nick of time, and had the execution of the Rebels for five miles, their Foot taking flight upon giving ground of their Horse. In the pursuit their Commander and Precedent of that Province was slain (the titular Archbishop of Tuain.) Our men took one hundred and fifty of their Horse, with Pistols, all their Baggage, Tents and Ammunition; there were two Wagons with rich Spoil, and many in them, they took several of their Standards and Colours, 24 Drums, and Officers of note, in number 48 who are now prisoners in Sligo, about two hundred of their men lay killed in the place, and many more had been, if plunder had not been preferred before execution by our Foot; we had but one killed of Sir William Coles Troop, and some Horsemen hurt, and some Horse.  
There were of the Irish Rebels taken Prisoners at Sligo as followeth:  
Great Morogh ve Divo O Flabeety, Lieutenant Colonel to Richard Bourk, Cousin German to the Earl of Clanrickard and his next Hair. John Garye, Lieutenant Colonel to Sir Tibbot Bourk, eldest Son to the Lord of may. Richard Bourk, Major to Richard Bourk the Earl of clanrickard's Heir, and Son to Sir William Bourk, Brother to the late Earl of Clanrickard. Captain William O Shaghuise brother to Sir Roger O Shaghuise. Captain Garret Dillon, Son to Sir Lucas Dillon, who saith that his Father was shot in the thigh. Captain Ro. Castallogh.  
Killed. Edward Brown, Captain of 100 Musketeers out of Galloway, brother to Jeffery Brown the Lawyer. Three Lieutenants of Foot. 
The slain  Two Cornets. Three Engines. Killed also the Titular Archbishop of Tuain, the Rebel's precedent of Cannaught, a principal incendiary in that Kingdom, in whose pockets were found Letters and other papers of great importance, and for his own particular an Order from the Council of Kilkenny, for levying the arrears of his Bishopric, together with several other prisoners of inferior quality both of Horse and Foot, and 22 or 23 were drowned.  
And here now I shall desire the Reader (by way of introduction, to what I have further to say touching this Irish Victory, and especially some of the Papers taken from this foresaid Archbishop of Tuain) to take special notice of the admirable wisdom and providential mercy of the Lord unto us therein, 
God's good providence in the apprehension of certain Papers and Letters from the Archbishop of Tuain.  viz. That in regard of the wonderful great and good success, which the Lord hath lately given to our Forces in the West of our own Kingdom, and the King finding what bad success he hath of late had (as well as all along, indeed, for the most part) in all the parts of the Kingdom, both West and North, now therefore sent Letter after Letter to the Parliament, for the procuring of a (pretended) well grounded Peace, and the way (nay, forsooth, the only way, in the opinion of the subtle Oxonians,) that must lead thereto, he propounded to be by a Treaty nay, when that could not serve, by a Personal Treaty in himself, proffering himself to come in person to our Parliament. 
The danger of Treaties with our Malignant adversaries.  But our prudent Parliament, who by much experience knew very well of what danger and disadvantage such Treaties have been, and this also of the King's personal coming (in this juncture of time) would be, both to foment pernicious delays and abusive designs, 
Yea of a Personal Treaty with the King himself.  for raising desperate parties to spoil us all, resolved therefore most peremptorily to go a nearer way to work, to wit, by drawing up Bills, and to present them to the King, to have them immediately signed and made Acts. But now that the Reader, I say, may see how fairly the King meant, 
Remarkable mischief, and impiety discovered in the King's party.  both in sending Letters thus for a Treaty of Peace, yea, and proffering himself in person to treat of Peace, I have here thought fit to set down the substance of one of his Letters, sent to the Parliament for this purpose, verbatim, and most faithfully, as it was printed and published, and therewith also a Declaration, of his compacting with the Rebels in Ireland, against God, our Religion, and his English Protestant Subjects, yea the whole Kingdom and Parliament: And then, I say, the impartial Reader may see how crossly and craftily (yet most accursedly) things were carried underhand, even with extreme Atheism and impiety; and now, I say, for the full clearing hereof, take here first a true Copy of the King's Letter to our Parliament, expressing his even greedy seeming desire of Peace with his Parliament and his Protestant People; and than you shall have the other Letter or Declaration sent into Ireland, and then be amazed and confounded in thy thoughts at such hideous and horrid, yea even hellish dissimulation.  
Upon Friday, Jan. 16. another Trumpet (for you must know by the way, as I touched before, divers former Trumpets and Messages had been sent) came from the King with a Letter directed to the Speaker of the House of Peers, pro tempore, the substance of which Letter was.  
C. R.  
HIs Majesty doth express his great wonder, 
A Copy of the King's Letter to the Parliament.  that whereas he had sent a gracious Message on the 26 of December last, the subject whereof was for a Treaty for peace, that the Parliament should return no Answer to that Message ever since. He much admired what should become of his Trumpeter▪ whom he sent unto them in December last, having heard 〈◊〉 news of him since his departure from Oxford unto London: He seems to be very careful of the Government of the Church, and desireth that it may continue as in the days of Queen Elizabeth and King James of blessed and perpetual memory: yet he expresseth, that because the Act it abolished for the use of the Book of Common Prayer, he is not altogether averse that the Directory shall pass as it is now used in some Churches of London, and this He is content to condescend unto for the ease of tender consciences, He maketh no question but that He shall give both his Houses of Parliament a full content for the choice of the Lord Admiral and other Officers of State if He finds his Houses of Parliament inclinable to a Treaty for peace, in which he intendeth to assist in Person, He expresseth a special care to satisfy the Scots in their arrears, and to discharge the expenses of the City, and for the business of Ireland He doubteth not but He shall give His Subjects of England perfect satisfaction.  
Subscribed. Given at our Court at Oxford, Jan. 15. 1645.  
This is the substance of his Majesty's Letter, which though communicated by former pens, was read in the House this day, and it is the rather here inserted, because you may see how cross it is to His Majesty's Letter sent to Ireland, and sealed with his highness' Signature and Royal Signet, which Letter, together with other papers of great concernment, were found in the pocket of the Archbishop of Tuain, slain at Sligo in Ireland, the tenor of which Letter was as followeth:  
C. R.  
CHARLES' by the grace of God King of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith: To our trusty and right well beloved cousin, Edward Earl of Glamorgan, greeting.  
WE reposing great and special trust and confidence in your approved wisdom and fidelity, do by these (as firmly as under our great Seal, to all intents and purposes) authorise and give you power to treat and conclude with the Roman Catholics in our Kingdom of Ireland, if upon necessity any thing be condescended to, wherein our Lieutenant cannot so well be seen, as not fit for us, at the present, publicly to own: We therefore charge you to proceed according to this our Warrant, with all possible secrecy, and for whatsoever you shall engage yourself upon such valuable considerations, as you in your judgement shall think fit, we promise in the word of a King and a Christian, to ratify and perform the same that shall be granted by you, and under your Hand and Seal, the said Confederate Catholics having by their supplies testified their zeal to our service, and this shall be in each particular a sufficient Warrant to you.  
Given at our Court at Oxford under our Signet and Royal Segnature in the twenty year of our reign, etc.  
It was therefore ordered by the said Earl in the King's behalf,  
1 That all the professors of the Roman Religion in Ireland, of whatsoever degree or quality shall enjoy the free and public use of the Roman Catholic Religion.  
2 That the professors of the said Roman Religion shall enjoy all the Churches within the Kingdom of Ireland, other than such as are now actually enjoyed by his Majesty's Protestant Subjects.  
3 That all the Roman Catholic Subjects of Ireland should be exempted from the jurisdiction of the Protestant Clergy.  
4 〈◊〉 whereas there was an Act made 〈◊〉 Parliament holden in Dublin in the second year of Queen Elizabeth, entitled, An act restoring to the Crown the ancient Right and Jurisdiction over the State Ecclesiastical; and for the abolishing of all foreign and Popish power repugnant to the same. And whereas there was another Act for the Uniformity of Common Prayer and Service in the Church, and Administration of the Sacraments, and sundry m●cts laid upon the professions of the Roman Religion: it is accorded and granted that a Parliament shall be called in Ireland, and that an Act shall pass for the relief of his Majesty's subjects; and that neither of the said Statutes, nor only branch, Article, clause or sentence in them, neither in any other Statute made either by his Majiesty or any of his Predecessors, touching the free and public use of the Catholic Religion shall extend or be of my force to prejudice the professors of the Roman Church for any matter or cause whatsoever.  
And these things and some other of the like nature being granted by the King, according to his promise made in the word of a Christian and a King, the Confederate Catholics did oblige themselves to bring in the number of 10000 men, who are to be armed there, one half with Musket's, the other with Pikes, to be shipped to serve his Majesty in England, Wales, Scotland, at his Majesty shall appoint.  
Thus have I set forth the King's Letter to the Parliament on the one side, and his Letter or Declaration to the most bloody and barbarous Rebels of Ireland on the other side: And now how the King is able to reconcile these two vast contrarities, and to give the Kingdom and Parliament full satisfaction (as in that Letter to them he says he will) concerning the affairs in Ireland, let the world judge, and God and his own soul be witness. Therefore the Parliament (as by God's mercy to us they have done all things hitherto, for the most part, with much moderation and 〈◊〉) did very 〈◊〉 (I think) present to his Majesty in the●● Letter or Declaration sent unto him, 
The sum of the Parliaments Answer to the King's Letter for a treaty for a pretended peace.  on their knowledge of these things, that the war in Ireland being fomented and prolonged by his Majesty, to the utter ruin almost of the Kingdom of England and Scotland, that until satisfaction and security be 〈◊〉 given to 〈◊〉 Kingdoms for the same, his Majesty's coming to London could not be convenient nor assented unto. Thus, I say, the Parliaments providence (next under the infinite wisdom and mercy of our good God) hath still wonderfully discovered and disappointed all the pestilent plots and dangerous designs of our adversaries, and (maugre all their malicious machinations and craftiest combinations) made all our Parliamentary great, grave, and godly affairs, go on with wonderful safety and security, ever magnified and praised be the Lords most glorious mercies for it. But now to proceed.  
About the 14 of this instant January, we received certain intelligence by Letters out of the West, that the Enemy in those parts continued in a most distracted condition, flying still before us, and our men losing no advantage and opportunity to pursue them. And that they no sooner had heard of our Forces approach toward Plymouth, but (as they were in their Garrisons and Holds before Plymouth about Plympton) they immediately forsook them to provide for themselves by a shameful flight, 
Plymouth totally relieved and relinquished by the Enemies.  and were no sooner fled, but our men became masters of their Works. There were found in Plympton, upon this the Enemies hasty flight, seven pieces of Ordnance, which in that confused haste they were not able to draw off, there were also taken divers barrels of powder, and great store of Arms and Ammunition; and it much joyed the Garrison of Plymouth, to see a full deliverance come so soon and so unexpectedly, 
Plymouth made good advantage of the flight of their Enemies.  and that in the depth of snow and dead of Winter, whereas according to ordinary reason there could, in such a time, no relief be expected. But the Garrison of Plymouth, to be sure, made good use of the flying condition of their Enemies, for immediately they sallied forth after them, and took about 60 of them, one whereof was said to be a Commander of note, and one of the most active against the Parliament in those parts.  
And as the Garrison of Plymouth was active, so our renowned General Sir Thomas Fairfax, with his most loyal and active Forces would lose no time or opportunity, but took all occasions of the Enemy's fears and flights, and following them close made them quit Sir Francis Drakes House, 
Sir Francis Drakes House taken.  which they had made a strong Garrison, and our men took possession of it. And then Sir Thomas commanded a considerable party to march to Dartmouth, who with much willingness undertook the march, and the Town being summoned, the Enemy not only refused to submit, but sent out a party to fire some out houses, 
Dartmouth summoned.  supposing that they might▪ be beneficial to us during the siege; but our Forces routed the party, took 40 Horse, and divers prisoners, and slew the Lieutenant Colonel that commanded the said party. And in the mean time Sir Thomas Fairfax sent to Captain Batten, Vice Admiral of the Parliaments Ships in the Western stood, 
Captain Batten Vice-Admiral helps to besiege Dartmouth Sy Sea.  to come up to Dartmouth 〈◊〉, because he would storm it both by Sea and by Land, whereof more in its more proper place.  
January the 16 a Petition was 〈◊〉 to the House of Peers, in the name of the Lord Mayor, Old ●men, and Common-council of the City of London, 
The City of London petitions the Parliament about Church-Government.  for the speedy settling of Church Government in the City, and over the whole Kingdom, (as the day before they had presented one of the same to the House of Commons) and upon the presenting of the Petition, Alderman Gibbs made a Speech to their Lordships, and after some consideration of the Petition, the Lords returned them a most acceptable answer which Petition together with the Answer thereunto, from the Lords, for the Readers better content and satisfaction, and the honour of that most famous and renowned City, in such a pious Act and Petition, I have thought fit here to insert them, which were as followeth.  


To the Right Honourable the LORDS now Assembled in the High Court of PARLIAMENT.  
The humble Petition of the Lord Mayor, aldermans and Commons of the City of London in Common-council Assembled.  
showeth;  
THat in Novemb. last the Petitioners made it their humble request to this honourable House, That Church-Government might be settled; and are most humbly thank full for your favourable interpretation thereof▪ proceeding from the good intentions of the Common-council, who are resolved, according to their duty, to have a tender respect to the Privileges of Parliament, whereby the Liberties of the City and Kingdom are preserved: That in December last, at the choice of new Common-council men for the year ensuing, the Inhabitants of most of the Wards in this City petitioned their respective Aldermen in their Wardmote, to move your Petitioners to make their further address to the Honourable Houses of Parliament, for the speedy settling of Church-Government within this City, and against Toleration, as by a Copy of one of the said Petitions annexed appeared.  
That private Meetings, especially on the Lord's Day, (of which there are at least eleven in one Parish) are multiplied, whereby the public Congregations, Ordinances, and godly 〈…〉, are very much neglected and contemned, as if they were Antichristian, and our present times were like the Primitive persecutions, or as if we were still under the Tyranny of the Prelatical Government, and by reason of such 〈◊〉, and the preaching of women and other ignorant persons, superstition, Heresy, Schism, and Profaneness are much increased, 〈◊〉 divided, and such Blasphemies as the Petitioners tremble to think on; uttered, to the high dishonour of Almighty God.  
That the Petitioners are informed that divers persons have an interition to Petition this Honourable House, for a Toleration of such Doctrines at are against our Covenants; under the Notion of Liberty of Consel●●.  
The Petitioners therefore having no power of themselves to suppress or overcome these growing evils; Do, according to their Covenant, reveal and make the same known to this Honourable House, and for timely prevention and removal thereof do 〈…〉 the Pre●●●sses may be taken into your most serious consideration; And that Church Government 〈◊〉 speedily, 〈…〉 to our most Solemn Covenant, with the most high God, in such manner and form, as to your Wisdoms shall seem most agreeable thereunto, before me be destroyed one by another through 〈◊〉 and divisions; And that no Toleration be granted, either of Popery, Prelacy, Superstition, Heresy, Schism, profaneness, or of any thing contrary to sound Doctrine and the power of godliness; And that all private Meetings, contrary to the said Covenant (the rather in regard of the sad effects thereof) may be restrained,  
And the Petitioners shall pray, etc. MICHAEL.   

To the Right Worshipful the Alderman and Common-council men of the Ward of Farrington within at their Wardmoot; A representation of the Humble desires of the Inhabitants of the said Ward.  
I THat Church Government may speedily be settled within the City, before we be utterly ruined with rents and divisions.  
TWO That this Government may be that which is agreeable to the Word of God, and example of the best Reformed Churches, according 〈◊〉 solemn League and Covenant with the most high God.  
III That no Toleration either the Popery, Prelacy, Schism, Heresy, Superstition, Prophamenesse, or any thing contrary to sound Doctrine, or the power of godliness, may at all be yielded unto, as being against the Word of God, and contrary to the very Letter of our Covenant.  
And these our most humble and earnest desires, which we are obliged and encouraged also to make, by reason of our said Covenant, we entreat the Right Worshipful the Alderman, and Common-council men of this Ward, to represent to the Right Honourable the Lord Mayor, and the Honourable Court of Common-council at their first sitting, that they would make their further address to the Honourable Houses of Parliament, for the obtaining of these our just and necessary desires.   

The Answer to the said Petition, pronounced by the Speaker of the House of Peers.  
THe Lords have always had great experience of the care and good affections of the Lord Mayor, aldermans, and Common-council of the City of London, for which they are glad of any opportunity to express their great sense, and to return their hearty thanks, and 〈◊〉 especially upon this occasion, wherein the Common-council have ma●●● so great zeal and faithfulness to the true Worship of Almighty 〈◊〉 and care for the Peace and well ordering of the City of London, 〈…〉 the whole Kingdom is so nearly concerned; The Lords therefore 〈…〉 of the Petition now presented unto them, and the expressions of that worthy Alderman made unto their Lordships▪ have commanded me in their names to give ye further and larger acknowledgements for your great care and endeavours to prevent so growing a mischief, giving ye this assurance, That as they have been very forward formerly to do what in them lay for a settlement of Church-Government, so they shall still continue to advance and perfect a Work so much tending to the glory of God, and to the ●er●ing of the Peace of the Kingdom, holding themselves thereunto obliged by their solemn League and Covenant; and they do seriously recommend it to the care of the Lord Mayor, and such at 〈◊〉 in Office in the City, to suppress and prevent such great Offences by you mentioned, which are so much to the dishonour of God and the disturbance of the present and future good Government of the City of London. And wherein ye shall find yourselves wanting in p●wer, the Lords will be ready to contribute their authority for your encouragement and assistance.    
And about the 20 of this instant January we were credibly informed by Letters from Abington, of an excellent exploit performed by the Forces of most active, loyal, and renowned Major General Brown, 
A brave defeat given to Wallingford Forces by Major General Brownes Forces.  against Wallingford Horse, in which he had taken Lieutenant Colonel Lour, the Deputy-Governour of Wallingford, some other Officers and Prisoners of note, 50 of the Enemy's Horse, their Riders and Arms, and also rescued 30 Horse which the Enemy had before taken of ours, by which defeat Wallingford Garrison was much weakened.  
On the 23 of this instant, we received happy and most welcome news out of the West, of the taking of Dartmouth, with the Castle, Ordnance, 
Dartmouth Town and Castle taken by storm.  etc. by storm on Sunday night, Jan. 19 and there was also a Letter read in Parliament from his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, of all the particulars of the storming and taking of the said strong Town and Castle, with a List of the Prisoners therein taken, which being a full and authentic narrative of the whole business, I have here, for the Readers better content and satisfaction, inserted a true Copy of the said Letter, which was as followeth:  
My Lords and Gentlemen:  
AFter my coming to Totnes, the Enemy rising in great disorder from the siege at Plymouth, and leaving their Guns and some Ammunition behind them; I considered with those about me of attempting upon Dartmouth, and it being concluded affirmatively, I caused two Regiments of Foot to march to Ditsam, 
The relation of the manner of taking Dartmouth, signified by Sir Thomus Fairfaxes Letter to the Parliament.  and two to Sucheflemming, being on the West of Dart River. I having summoned the place before, resolved upon Sunday night to attempt it by storm, which was agreed to be done in three places. The first Post was on the West Gate by Colonel Hamond, the second on the North end of the Town, by Lieutenant Colonel Pride, and the third on Tonstall Church and Works, by Colonel Fortescue; the time resolved on was in the evening. Our men fell on accordingly, with great resolution, (to whom Colonel Lambert's Regiment was a Reserve, and to alarm the Enemies elsewhere) Colonel Hamond entered the West Gate, where four Guns were planted, and two upon the Mill-Pool, upon his Flank the Enemy ●●ring his great guns but once, his men that had the forlorn hope did very gallantly (as indeed they did all) and went freely on, and beat off the Enemy, and possessed one Fort after another, viz. Mount-Flaggon, the West Gate, and Paradise Fort, and beat off the Main-Guards, where were taken four Lieutenant Colonels, and so we possessed the Town from the West Gate to little Dartmouth. 〈◊〉 the interim Lieutenant Colonel Pride attempted the North part of the Town, called Harness, where beating off the Enemy be entered it, and took about eighty prisoners in it, and by it possessed all the North part of the Town unto the Drawbridge, which divided the North part from the rest of the Town: where Colonel hamond's men and his met; Colonel Fortescue with his men, attempted Tunstall Church, which was very well man'd with above 100 men, and having in it ten Guns: His men, after some dispute, with good resolution entered the place and possessed it, so that by this time the Enemy was beaten out of all, except the great Fort on the East side of the River, called Kingsworth Fort, and the Castle, with the Fort which lay over the Castle, at the mouth of the Harbour, called Gallant Bover,: to which last the Governor, with the Earl of Newport, and as many as escaped out fled. After they were forced from their strength out of the Town, the Governor coming back from the Castle to see what posture the Town was in, had a remarkable shot as he was in the Boat, one sitting by him, a Musket shot was made at the Boat, which pierced the Boat, and through both the thighs of one that was next unto him, and about three inches into his own thigh, upon which he retreated to the Castle. Our Dragoons, with two Companies of our Firelocks, and some Seamen, were ordered only to alarm Kingsworth Fort, wherein was Sir Henry Cary with his Regiment, having in it 11 Guns, and 12 Barrels of powder, and convenient proportion of Ammunition. This was a very strong Fort, with about four good Bulwarks, strong enough to have made a troublesome resistance: but the Enemy came willingly to terms: and to save time I willingly condescended to let Sir Henry Cary march away with the rest, leaving the Arms, Ordnance, Ammunition, with all Provisions in the Fort to me, and all engaging themselves never to take up Arms more against the Parliament, which was accordingly performed. Next morning being thus master of all but the Castle, and Gallants Bower, I summoned that, the Governor was willing to listen unto me, but I held him to those terms upon which after some dispute he yielded, which was to deliver himself and all Officers and Soldiers upon quarter: he sent me out Colonel Seamor and Master Denham for Hostages, with whom came out the Earl of Newport, and all was this day performed accordingly. In this Fort and Castle were 11 Guns, with proportion of Ammunition and Provisions. We have taken in the Harbour two men of War, one belonging to the Governor of Barnstable, with 12 Guns, Burden 200 Tuns, the other belonging to Newcastle, formerly Captain Jonson's; of ten Tuns; In the Town one hundred and three pieces of Ordnance, and about 600 prisoners, and 100 Horse, with good proportion of Arms and Ammunition exact particulars, whereof I am not able to give your Lordship at present an account; There being many of the Inhabitants of this Town Soldiers in Plymouth, and some Officers. And understanding that that Town had 2500 in Garrison, besides Townsmen, I have sent thither for 500 Foot for this place, who quickly will increase to more: and to this I desire your approbation: for having found more work to do, I held it not fit to weaken my Army, especially considering the Recruits designed by you. I doubt will be too long before they come. I have given your Lordship a brief account of this service, which I desire may be accounted a sweet mercy of God in a very fitting season, and only ascribed to him who truly did direct and act it, and made all the preparation to it, both in the ordering our hearts, and giving health to the Army, which laboured two months ago extremely of sickness, but is now in good disposition generally to health. I can say, I find it to be in the hearts of all here, in all integrity to serve you: And that it is so, is still the mercy of God: for surely the success of your affairs, only depends upon the ordering of a gracious providence, which is no less visible in your counsels, (which we congratulate) than amongst us; that being the common root and spring of all, and which, can and will carry you through the greatest difficulties, and us in serving you, until God hath finished, his own work: wherein to profess the obligation and readiness of myself and the Army, by the same good hand of God, is all the undertaking of  
Your Lordship most humble servant, THO. FAIRFAX. Dartmouth, Jan 20. 1645.  

A List of the Prisoners and Prizes taken at Dartmouth, Jan, 19 1645.  

Prisoners taken.  SIr Hugh Pollard Baron, Governor of the Town.  
The Earl of Newport.  
Colonel Saymor.  
Master Denman, Baron Denmans Son.  
Lieutenant Colonel Nicholas Codrington.  
Lieut. Col. Bluet.  
Lieut. Col. Thomas Warkland.  
Lieut. Col. Searl.  
Major Francis Fielf●rd  
Major Hooper.  
Captains 16.  
Lieutenants 14.  
Ensigns 10  
Cornet, 〈◊〉 and others not then brought in.  
Master Reynolds, Gentleman of Arms, besides 6 Gentlemen of note of the Country, and divers others.  
Divers Ministers or Priests, and many inferior Officers.  
Common Soldiers betwixt 800 and 1000 who were all set at liberty, and to repair in peace to their dwelling houses, who took it as a great favour, as also did the whole Country to whom they were related.  

Prizes taken.  Many Barrels of Powder.  
1000 Arms; besides many broken ones.  
Two men of War in the Harbour, the one belonging to Barnstable, the other to Newcastle.  
And 60 Sail of Ships, both great and small.  
120 Pieces of Ordnance ready planted, with those 13 in Gallows-Brow.  
In all, by Sea and Land, near upon 200.  
100 Horse.  
8 Horse Colours.  
5 Foot Colours.  
7 Standards of Foot Colours, and one with the Kings own picture on it.  

Major Pollard slain on the Enemy's side.  Major Pollard of the Enemies part slain in the storm.   
After the reading of this Letter the Commons in Parliament took into their serious consideration, the great and worthy valour, and singular good success of his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, and reserted it to a Committee to consider how the 5000. 
Deserved thanks and reward given to our renowned General Sir Thomas Fairfax.  l. per annum, formerly voted to be conferred on his Excellency and his Heynes for ever, might be presently settled, possessed, and enjoyed by him. They likewise ordered, That a Letter should be written to his Excellency, to return the thanks of both Houses of Parliament, for his noble valour and unwearied pains in the service of the State, and particularly in the storming of Dartmouth, and to inform him what a great mercy the Parliament esteems this business of Dartmouth, and how highly they respect and esteem of his Excellency, and his designs and undertake.  
And here, now, I shall desire the Reader (for God's greater glory and high honour) to consider seriously, and most graciously and gratefully, 
Certain observations on the Premises.  how admirable wisely, powerfully and advantageously, (for us) the Lord carried on all these late great works in these few ensuing observations, worthy our cordial consideration.  
As first, That God all along cast such a panic fear upon our Enemies, such a Magor-Misabib into their hearts and spirits, that they were a continual terror to themselves, and that since our taking of Bovi●-Tracy, God hath given into our hands near 1000 of the Enemy's Horse; and that upon the advance of a party of ours from Credi●●on, the Enemies fled, and only ●ix of Colonel Okeyes Dragoones put 500 of their Horse from their post, at which time they fled from Plymouth, leaving their Guns, Arms, and Ammunition, behind them.  
Secondly, That Captain Batten, Vice-admiral of the Parliaments Ships, coming to block up Dartmouth by Sea (as our noble General Sir Thomas Fairfax had ordered him) li● upon a Ship of the Enemies, bound for France, wherein were many Gentlemen of quality, and money and jewels to a good quantity, together with many other rich 〈…〉.  
Thirdly, which is indeed very remarkable, That till our Forces came before Dartmouth, in at least seven week's space, there had been little or no 〈◊〉 upon that 〈◊〉; but now our Army being there, there was such a mighty shoal of Mu●●its taken, as comfortably fed our Army, and which so continued among them to the great admiration of all the Inhabitants.  
Fourthly, That in the storming of the Town, though all things answered not the appointments of the Council of War, yet there was no confusion or miscarriage in the whole work, and withal, that we had very fair weather all the time of the siege and storm, even to a minute, till the Town was taken, and then only it reigned much.  
Fifthly, That notwithstanding the great strength of the Fortifications of the Town, and in men and Ordnance also, yet it was taken without much bloodshed, we having lost but two men in all the whole work, that we could possibly hear, of, which was even a miraculous mercy to us; considering, I say, that there were 〈◊〉 strong Works and Forts in it, and about 100 Pieces ready mounted and manned, which might have been thought sufficient to have maintained the Town and Harbour against a very potent Army.  
Sixthly and lastly, That Master Peter, one of the Ministers of the Army at this time, presented to the Parliament divers Colours taken in the Town and Country, and among the rest, the Kings own first Colours, which he first advanced at York against the Parliament, with the Kings own picture on it, and a Sword in 〈◊〉 hand, and a book in the other; together with a bundle of brave Letters found in the Governors' House in Dartmouth, some of the Princes, some of rupert's, some of goring, some of Culpeppers, and their Commissions by Sea and Land, besides a Popish Masse-Book and an Altar, taken from the Engineer of Dartmouth, who was a Dutch Mass Priest.  
For all which so rare and remarkable free favours and mighty mere mercies, so graciously conferred upon us, our most renowned Parliamentary Worthies most rightly and religiously ordered a solemn day of Thanksgiving to be kept, a Copy of which their Order I have here thought fit to insert, which was as followeth:  

Die Jovis, Jan. 26. 1645.  
THe Lords and Commons in Parliament assembled, 
A Solemn day of Thanksgiving ordered to be kept in London and over the Kingdom.  do order and appoint this day fortnight, being Thursday, for a day of Thanksgiving, for the taking in of Dartmouth and Hereford, to be kept within the Cities of London and Westminster, the Lines of Communication, and ten miles about; And this day three weeks for all other places over the Kingdom in the Parliaments power.   
About the 26 of this instant January we received also certain intelligence by Letters out of Stafford-shire, that Captain Stone, that valiant and active Commander, 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy at Cark near Stafford.  had sent out a party of about 100 and odd Horse to beat up the Lord Molinaux his Quarters, who fell upon the Enemy at a place called Cark, within seven miles of Stafford, and managed their charge with such martial resolution and dexterity, that they routed 300 of the Enemies, and took prisoners three Captains, two Cornets, eight Reformadoes, ten inferior Officers, about 100 Horse, and divers prisoners, above 100 Pistols: In which conflict many of the Enemies were wounded, and some slain. And thus they returned victoriously to Stafford again, with their Prisoners and Prizes.  
And about the 28 of this instant we were certainly informed from our Army in the West, 
Pouldram Castle taken.  that Pouldram Castle, which was Sir William Courteens House, a strong Garrison of the Enemies near Exeter, was surrendered to brave Colonel Hamond, who commanded in chief, upon these Conditions; The Officers and Soldiers to depart to their own dwellings, leaving all their Arms behind them. There were about 120 in the Castle, 4 Pieces of Ordnance unmounted, 5 Barrels of powder, with Bullet and Match proportionable, but little other Provisions. His Excellencies most courteous carriage and merciful useage of those at Dartmouth, notwithstanding that he won it by storm, had a great influence and operation upon the spirits of the Enemies elsewhere, and was not only a prevalent motive to these of Pouldram Castle to yield so soon unto his famoused mercy, but made many others also, shortly after to desert the Enemy; 
The most noble and renowned Generals singular mercy and clemency toward his Enemies.  for there being at least 120 Cornish men prisoners in Dartmouth, notwithstanding their former, even most barbarous cruelty to ours; yet, I say, renowned and merciful Sir Thomas Fairfax, (as I was credibly informed) set them all at liberty, and gave them two shillings a man to bear their charges. And was not here a heaping of Coals of fire on their heads (as our Saviour commands and commends in his Disciples) and a rare way of winning of hearts, even of those formerly heathenish cruel Cornish Enemies. Those of them that would stay and take up Arms for the Parliament (as divers did) he gave them ●●ree shillings a piece: to all the Seamen in prison he freely gave their liberty, and to all their Common Soldiers, unwilling to take up Arms, he gave Passes to go to their own habitations; nay to several Officers (of whom any of the fair conditioned Townsmen could give any good Character) he also gave Passes to go to their own homes also, on promise of future fair and peaceable demeanour toward the Parliament and their friends. This indulgent and most noble favour, thus showed by his Excellency, was not altogether fruitless unto us immediately after, for some of those Officers proved very serviceable to our Army in some of their succeeding designs; nor could less good effects be expected from many others where his Excellency occasionally made his Martial progress and advances; whereby he hath most certainly, and more and more most worthily been crowned with ancient Caesar's more than Golden Diadems of perpetual same and honour, 
Sir Thomas Fairfax a second Caesar.  viz. Caesar noster Anglicus, dando sublevando, & ignoscendo, Gloriam adeptus est. But now to proceed.  
About the latter end of this Month of January, we had further certain intelligence by Letters from Dartmouth, in the West, that a Bark which came from France, putting in at Dartmouth, not knowing it was in the Parliaments hands, and being come within command, 
A Ship from France taken at Dartmouth, with Letters of great consequence.  before they discovered it, was there instantly seized on. But special order and directions having been given to the Master of the Ship, that in case he saw himself in danger to be taken by any of the Parliaments Forces, he should throw his packets of Letters overboard into the Sea, which now he had accordingly done; but it being upon examination confessed, Colonel Lambert presently commanded out boats to search for them, and to see if they could espy any such Packets floating on the waters toward the shore, which by God's good providence at last they found so indeed, and took them up and brought them to the noble Colonel, even Letters of great concernment from the Queen, Jermine and Goring, which were all speedily posted up to the Parliament. And thus, besides the prize of the Ship and the fraught therein, the Lord was most graciously pleased, even by our Enemies themselves, (and especially by admirable interception of their Letters from time to time, even all along) to lay open and discover unto us the most hidden (I had almost said the most hideous) secrets of their hellish hearts against us, and thereby giving us fair and seasonable opportunities (by his blessed assistance) to prevent and avoid their intended malice and mischief toward us; blessed, O ever blessed be the pure and precious grace and mere mercy of our good God unto us.  
And here now again, good Reader, I shall desire thee in thy wont patience and piety, together with me, to make another short stay, and take a summary and brief survey and grateful revise of all the sweet and salubrious mercies of this month also, so much conducing to the health and happiness of this long languishing Church and State, 
The Burning-Bush unconsumed.  to the dressing, pruning, and prospering of this our Burning-Bush still (as you see) unconsumed, the Parliaments just Cause, thus still sustained in the midst of all the fiery machinations and flaming molestations, burning and blazing round about it, as hath been most comfortably and conspicuously seen to us all, 
1  both in the great mercy of our God, in so upholding the heart of the renowned Governor of Plymouth, with such impregnable loyalty and fidelity to the Parliament and its most just Cause, as not to betray that great trust committed to him by the Parliament, in safeguarding the said famous Town from the paws and possession of the Enemy; and also in the singular good success which immediately after the Lord gave to those his loyal befieged servants, against their besieging Enemies, as a just reward of their late base battery of treachery shot against it. 
2  In that famous defeat given also to the Enemy at B●vie-Tracy; and our winning of Ilminster, Ashburton, Totnes and Okebampton; together with the famous victory obtained against the Rebels of Ireland at Sligo, 
3  and the excellent effects ensuing thereon. In the most happy total relief of Plymouth from a long and dangerous siege, by base and bloodthirsty Enemies, and recovery of Sir Francis Drakes House, 
4  a strong Garrison also, out of their hands. In God's great goodness unto us▪ in still stirring up the hearts, and raising up the spirits of the most renowned Citizens of London, to stand close to his truth, and to be very zealous for the building up of God's House, as was most eminently evident in their most excellent Petitions to the Lords and Commons in Parliament, for the speeding thereof. 
5  In the most happy surprisal of the Town and Castle of Dartmouth, a mighty mercy unto us indeed, it being a place of great consequence to the whole Kingdom, and a fair and famous Haven and inlet from other foreign parts. 
6  And sixthly and lastly. In that brave defeat given to the Enemy at C●rk near Stafford; the taking in of P●●ldram Castle by Sir Thomas Fairf●●s forces in the West; and his most Excellent and amiable demeanour among the people of those parts, even like a second Julius Caesar. Together with the most seasonable surprisal of that Ship from France in Dartmouth harbour, by which that 〈◊〉 of Letters of so great Concernment was also by God's g●●d providence apprehended and found floating on the waves of the Sea. All which most gratefully put together, and seriously and sanctimoniously considered can amount to no less than a most large acknowledgement of our most dear and Deep en●●gement to the Lord our God in all the bonds of most bonden gratitude; and therefore to break out into holy and hearty zeal 〈◊〉 Cordial thankfulness and with the good Prophet to con●●●● and say, 
Jer. 10. 7.  Who would not fear and love thee (O King of Nations) 〈◊〉 to thee alone indeed, it doth appertain; for as much as among all 〈◊〉 and strong man of the Nations and all their kingdoms, their 〈…〉 like unto the Lord our God: 
Zecha. 25.  Who hath most mercifully and 〈◊〉 been a wall of fire to us, this unworthy Jerusalem, round 〈◊〉 as, and the only glory in the midst among us. But now to proceed.  
And here now I shall begin the farther prosperous per 〈…〉 in the comfortable contemplation of the continued wonder of the Burning-Bush unconsumed in this Month also of February 1646. 
February. 1646.  with the certain intelligence by letters out of the North- 〈◊〉 parts of the Kingdom, about the beginning of the 〈◊〉 of February, 1646. That the strong and almost impregna●● Garrison called 〈◊〉- Castle, being one of the strongest and 〈◊〉 buildings in the Kingdom, 
Belvoir-Castle surrendered to the Parliament  and therefore called Belvoir, 〈◊〉 word, signifying a Fair-Prospect, which had 66 steps or 〈◊〉 unto it, and therefore might well overlook the Country, which (for the most part, being valleys round about it) seemed 〈◊〉 yield obeisance to this Castle, which now, I say, is reduced 〈…〉 obedience of the Parliament, Sir lartis Lucas, the Governor thereof▪ withal the Commanders, Officers and Soldiers therein, 〈◊〉 permission to march away to Litch-field, upon more honourable terms, indeed, than they deserved.  
And 〈◊〉 Thursday, February they came letters out of Cheshire, 
The City of Westchester taken.  from that 〈◊〉, faithful, and religious Commander, Sir Willi●● 〈◊〉, of the most happy surrender of the strong and long 〈◊〉 Castle of West-Chester, into the noble Commanders 〈◊〉, for the use of the King and Parliament. And that which made the mercy much more sweet and remarkable, was, that the surrender of this Town was a clear and most evident return of the prayers of God's people, who had the fast day before the Month of January been pressing the throne of grace for this great mercy in particular. 
A most sweet and evident return of Prayer.  And now this Thursday February, 6. being the day of solemn Thanksgiving, set a part by special command of the Parliament, for God's great goodness in the obtaining of the strong Town and Castle of Dartbmouth, whiles the Parliament was in the midst of that God-delighting duty of Thanksgiving in Margrets-Church in Westminster, there came a Gentleman belonging to renowned Sir William Brereton with letters directed to the Speaker of the House of Commons, certifying that the City and Castle of Chester were surrendered to Sir William for the use of the King and Parliament, the third day of this instant February, about the hours of 11 or 12. at Noon, upon very fair, yea indeed, too fair terms and conditions to such a bloody Butcher as Byron was, 
Chester surrendered upon very conditions, and the reason thereof.  save only in mercy and pity to the poor and miserably long-besieged without, and much abused within Inhabitants of the City, and to avoid the utter ruin and devastation thereof, which this bloody Byron had vowed rather than to surrender on terms inferior to those now thus granted: For, in the present condition thereof, it was exceedingly impoverished by the Enemy's obstinacy and cruelty within, very little provisions to be found therein, save only of arms and ammunition, whereof indeed was good store. The particulars whereof take in this list thereof, 
The prizes taken in the City of Chester  the best and fullest that was then imparted to us. There were taken in the City of 〈◊〉 upon the surrender thereof, 300. Pieces of Ordnance, 3000. arms, 20. Ships and smaller Vessels, 40. Barrels of Powder and good store of Bullet, 2000 Bandeliers, 200. Firelocks, ●2. Skins of Match, 200. Horse, 300. Saddles and other furniture, 30. Hogsheads of Wine, 17. Firkins of Butter, very little Cheese, 20 Wagons, 17. Flitches of Bacon, and a little salt-beefe for the Officers, 8000. Ounces of Plate and good store of other rich treasure in Byron's quarters, for Byron himself was permitted to carry away with him not above 50. l. in money; the Seal of the County-Palatine, a 1000 Records and Evidences; there were also in the City, two Powder-Mills, and 250. Irish Prisoners.  
This City and that of Dartmouth were of singular concernment and very great mercies to the Parliament, and their loss so 〈◊〉 the greater to the Enemy (blessed be our God for it) for● this of Chester was most Convenient for landing of the Irish-R●●●, and that of Dart-mouth, for the French; besides the strength which the Enemy had in them, which is now by this means much weakened and scattered, and our forces also which were a●● them now at liberty to be elsewhere employed on other useful and important avocations toward Oxford, Litchf●ild, or some such places.  
About the 8. of this instant February, we had certain intelligence by Letters from Leicester, that a party of about 80. horse and 40. dragoones were sent out of Leicester under the command of Major Mere a very valiant and discreet Gentleman by night, into Ashbie de la Zouth, 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy at Ashbie de-la Zouth.  who carried on the design exceeding ●●avely, and marched with such expedition and privacy, that they came to Ashbi● about 11. of the clock, that night, altogether undiscovered, which was about 12. miles' march, whither being come, they suddenly surprised the Sentinels, fell in at the Turnpike, broke the chain, and entered the Town, took near 100 of the Enemy's Horse, being the greatest part of the horse of that Garrison, 30. whereof were ready Saddled, and fitted to have gone forth upon some design of theirs, all of them excellent good horses, and some of them worth, 20. 30. and near 40. l. a horse; they took store of arms, and more other Pillage, released divers prisoners, and some Country men whom the Enemy had taken for ransoms; and thus having plundered the Town, in part of requital of the many mischiefs and plundering of that Garrison to the Parli●●●ts friends, all these 〈◊〉 friends, returned to Leicester without the least molestation: the Enemy (who was in the great House or Close) either not 〈◊〉 the alarm or nor daring to come forth at all against them. And thus, I say, they came safely back again to Leicester, with all their horse, prize and pillage.  
And about the 10. of this instant we received certain information by Letters out of the West, 
The good and prosperous success of our army in the West.  of the most prosperous proceedings of the Parliaments forces in those parts; And how the Enemy did mightily desert their Colours and Commanders; yea and how that some of the Commanders themselves with their Soldiers came in unto our renowned General Sir Thomas Fairfaxes party, and in particular, that a Commander with a party of Horse from the Prince's Army came voluntarily and proffered his Service to his Excellency, who was most nobly entertained by our renowned General. And the said Commander did also assure his Excellency, that as soon as opportunity did serve, divers more intended to come away from the Enemy (a great part whereof were North-Countrie Gentlemen:) who had an earnest desire to serve his Excellency; And that a party of Sir Franis Drakes regiment went to visit a guard of the Enemies kept at Burrington, where they took the Major and all his guard being about 40. Horse in number; this party of ours was commanded by Major Stephens, he that formerly routed goring Brigade and took his Colours from him.  
About the 12. of the instant February, our prudent and provident Worthies of the House of Commons took into their serious consideration the great obstructions in several parts of the kingdom, and how much it might prejudice the people, in case they should not enjoy the benefit of the Laws of the kingdom: Whereupon, 
The Assizes of Oyer and Terminer revived.  they ordered, That (as formerly) Commissions should be issued forth under the Great-Seale of England to the justices of Assizes, and Oyer and Terminet, Goale-deliveries and Nisiprius should continue and proceed in their power in their Circuits, according to former Votes and instructions. A singular good work, indeed, and much conducing to settlement of the peace and tranquillity of the Commonwealth; the long intermission whereof (which could not till now be well remedied by reason of the Civill-warres among us) having been of great prejudice to the whole Kingdom.  
And the 19 of this instant February being Thursday, the House had ordered a day should be set a part as a solemn day of Thanksgiving for the great mercy of God to this Kingdom for the happy surrender of the City of Chester into the Parliaments possession, 
A Solemn Thanksgiving for Chester, and a charitable Collection made.  and that a Collection should be made in all the Churches, for the relief of the Sick, maimed and wounded Soldiers that lay before that place; and likewise for the relief of other distressed people in and about that City, who had suffered much and been brought into great poverty and misery by the enemies there. And our most loyal and loving Brethren of Scotland kept the like solemnday of Thanksgiving in their army, to bless God with us for this great mercy unto us. And see and admire, as a farther ground of Thankfulness, and to raise up our Spirits to a higher pitch of bounden gratitude; Even the very same morning that we were praising the Lord for that great mercy so graciously received, there came yet more joyful news to the Parliament, of a great overthrow given by his Excellency renowned Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Forces, to the Enemy at Torrington in the West, 
A fresh spur to quicken the spirit of praises.  the particulars of which so memorable a victory, cannot (I conceive) but be of most singular satisfaction to the Kingdom and people of God, especially; I shall therefore give the Reader a full and faithful intimation thereof, as it was sent in a Letter from a Gentleman of piety, credit, and eminency, in his Excellency's Army, and was read in the House of Commons, Febr. the 20. which was as followeth:  
SIR,  
SAturday, Febr. 14. our Army marched from Crediton and the quarters thereabout to Chimleigh, Sunday they marched very early to a Rendezvous some two miles in the way to Torrington, with intention to have gone on, but our Parties of horse bringing in some prisoners, by whose examination we could not certainly learn which way the Enemy bend, whereupon another party was sent out of Colonel Butler's Troop, the forlorn of which party being twelve took twelve of the Lord goring Lifeguard, and 24 Horse, and brought them to the General, upon their examination it appears, the Enemy was ignorant of our motion; The Lord Hopton was in Torrington. And further, that a party of the Enemy's Horse was at Burrington, the General sent a party of Horse to meet with them, under command of Captain Barry, who accordingly charged the Enemy, put them to a rout, shot Lieutenant Colonel Dundash a Renegado, and of the Lord Cleevelands Brigade, and took several prisoners, and brought Dundash three miles on the way, but being mortally wounded, was enforced to leave him at Ringdash a foot quarter of ours. Also another party of Horse toward the East met with the Enemy, taking some Prisoners and Horse, and shot Major Bret; by this time a Bridge was made up some two miles off Chimleigh, so that our Army might with convenience march over, but the day being so far spent, it was not held fit to march with the whole Army, so three Regiments of Horse and three of Foot marched some four miles towards the Enemy; that night the rest returned to Chimleigh, with Orders to march. Monday Feb. 16. the General with that part of the Army that was at Chimleigh marched up to the rest of the Army and within five miles of Torrington had a general Rendezvous both of Horse and Foot, drew them up in Battalions, and so marched up towards the Enemy.  
When we came within two miles of Torringron, our forlorn hope of Horse charged theirs, put them to retreat, whereupon they came on again with a very strong party, and put ours to a stand; the reserves of our forlorn being come up, and some foot, forced them to their Body again, our forlorn of horse pursued and alarmed them at Squire Rolls his house, within a mile of Torrington where they began to fortify, but the Enemy perceiving our Foot came up, quit the House, and drew their Forces to Torrington, and our forlorn of Horse advanced after them.  
The Enemy drew their Foot out of the Town into the closes about a quarter of a mile, our forlorn hope of Foot lined the hedges, and so faced each other about two hours, within half Musket shot exchanged many shot, and there was then continual skirmishing by the Forlornes and Reserves on both sides, and some Prisoners taken; by this time it began to be dark, and a Council of War was called, whether to engage before day or not, whereupon the General, Lieutenant General, with the rest of the Colonels, deferred a Resolution a little time, and rid to the forlorn hope, to see in what posture they were while they were there, the Tattoo was heard to beat in the Town, which assured us the Enemy continued in the Town, not flying away, as was reported, but to be certain, six Dragoones were commanded to creep under a hedge near the Barracadoes, and to give fire, to see whether they would answer, by which we might know whether they stood to defend the Town.  
The Enemy received the charge, and answered it with a very sharp volley of shot. Our forlorn hope seeing the Dragoons engaged gave fire: whereupon the Enemy gave fire all along the hedges and Works; thereupon the Reserve to the forlorn came on to relieve them, and so being engaged, the whole Army advanced, and about eight at night the battle began some six fields from the Town, and we fought from hedge to hedge until we beat them into their Barracadoes, which they maintained for an hour after very resolutely, our men being often repulsed, yet at last got over the Barracadoes, and forced the Enemy into the Town: whereupon the Horse were let in, who scouring the streets were received by the Enemy, and a hot charge given by both parties, yet it pleased God at the last we do 〈◊〉 them out of the Barracadoes at the furthest end of the Town, and by this time many prisoners were taken and put into the Church, but far more escaped being dark, 
Torrington Church fired by the Enemy.  over the hedges and byways, which was not possible for us to prevent, throwing down their Arms, and every man flying several ways. Our Forces were no sooner possessed of the Town, but the Enemy's Magazine which they left in the Church was fired, whether on purpose by the Enemy, or by accident, we cannot yet learn: but it proved a terrible blow not only blazing up the Church; with all the wood and lead that was upon it, deforming many houses in the Town, but killed some of the Prisoners in the Church, and some of our men that were in the Churchyard: two great Webs of Lead fell within twice a Horse length of the General, but it pleased God he escaped, though in eminent danger; many others being hurt both with the Timber, Stones and Led, most of the Town was shaken by this blow, being the terriblest that hath been seen in the memory of man, there being about 80 Barrels of powder blown up together, and one barrel which was blown out of the Church into the street, which took not fire.  
The Enemy perceiving their Magazine to be 〈◊〉 fired, gave one charge more with their horse up to our Barracadoes, commanded by Sir john Digby, but our Musketeers gave fire, whereupon they took their farewell, our first instantly advanced through the Town after them, and began the pursue about 11 of the clock at night.  

Hoptons' Army totally routed.  Thus it hath pleased God in an instant to scatter those Forces of the Lord Hoptons', his infantry being taken, slain, and totally routed, his horse, many taken and dispersed, and the rest gone in great disorder toward Cornwall, where shortly I hope we shall meet with the remnant left of that crew, and put an end to the Field Enemy in the West of England. They confessed they had 8 Regiments of Horse, consisting of 2500 men; some other of their Officers that are prisoners, 
The valour of the Cornish men.  say 3000. Indeed they are very resolute men, sought valiantly, and after they were chased from hedge to hedge, defended their Barracadoes and Works at push of Pike, and with the butt end of their Muskets, till our Foot got over a hedge and flankd them, so that they were forced to quit it.  
They were old Cornish Foot, and all Green●iles and Goring old Soldiers, both English and Irish, who were engaged in this service, but now are scattered. We have abundance of men wounded, both Officers and Soldiers, more than have been at any storm since the Army came forth, for indeed every hedge was as it were a Bulwark to the Enemy, so strong are their hedges in those parts, but few of ours killed, many of the Enemies, both Horse and Foot. Let the glory of the victory be all given to God. Our first Word in this fight was Emanuel, God with us, and a far Push in our hats. Their Word was, We are with you, and a handkerchief tied about their right Arms, but by taking some of ours prisoners the Enemy had gained the Word and Sign●●, and therefore we changed our Word, which was Truth, and a handkerchief or white mark in our hats.  
A true List of the Prisoners, and of the number slain and wounded on both sides in this fierce fight and brave victory at Torrington. 
Prisoners, prizes, and spoil, in and after this fight. The slain in this fight.  Prisoner's taken of the Enemies 600. among whom were many of quality, even 80 of the Prince's Lifeguard, 30 of Hoptons' Lifeguard, one Lieutenant Colonel, 9 or 10 Captains, 6 Lieutenants, one Cornet, 3 Ensigns, together with other Officers, 200 Horse, 3000 Arms, Hopton himself shot in the thigh near the belly, one Letter said shot dangerously in the belly, Sir John Digby wounded in the head, and some others of note sorely wounded, and Major Threave, and Captain Fry and other Officers slain. Of the Enemies slain in the City by firing the Magazine 200. full 80 barrels of powder blown up in the Church, which (as was most credibly and for certain informed) was done on purpose by Hoptons' instigation, who gave 20 l. to one of their own party to fire the same, a most cruel act. 20 of ours slain in the fight, and by blowing up the Magazine, and no more; and about 100 wounded. The Lord Hoptons' Commission to be General under the Prince, Sir John Digbies Commission to be Governor of the Forces before Plymouth, and other Papers of consequence taken. Of the Lord Hoptons' about 400 or 500 li. in money left behind at his Quarters, with much plunder left in Portmantles, and in other places behind them. All the Enemy's bag and baggage taken, and great store of provisions taken in the Town; the Enemy totally routed and fled in great disorder into Cornwall, 
The Parliaments gratuity to the Messengers that brought this good news.  and ours still in the pursuit of them. The two Messengers that brought the Letters intimating this great victory, were called into the House of Commons, and had 40 l. given them, as a gratuity for their pains in the journey. And the Messenger that brought this foresaid List and other Letters in confirmation of this great victory, had 20 l. given to him also. 
A day of solemn thanksgiving set apart for this great Victory at Torrington.   
And upon the 23 of this instant Febr. the House of Commons ordered that Thursday come fortnight being the 11 of March, a day of solemn Thanksgiving, should be kept in London and Westminster, and within ten miles about, for this great mercy and brave victory at Torrington; And for the Country it was ordered that in respect Thursday 7. night was by a former order appointed a day of Thanksgiving for the surrender of Chester, in the several Counties under the Parliaments power, that on the same day, hearty thanks should likewise be rendered by the Ministers of the several Counties for this other great mercy at Torrington.  

The Court of Wards utterly put down.  Upon the 24. instant, the House of Parliament taking occasion by an ordinance for the discharging of the Ward-ship of the Heyres-male of Sir Christopher Wray, late a most worthy Member of the House of Commons; They fell upon a serious debate touching the Legality or Illegality of Wardships in general, and after some time spent therein, they ordered that the Court of Wardships itself, and all Wardships Austres les Mains Primer Seisins, and all other charges incident to the said Office should be from that present day taken away; And all Tenors of homage and all fines, licences, pardons of Alienation etc. should be likewise taken away. This Vote being presently sent up to the Lords House for their Concurrence, their Lordships concurred accordingly therein. And for the better satisfaction of the Reader, I have thought fit to set down the Copy of the order or Vote itself, verbatim, which was as followeth.  


A Copy of the Order or Vote in Parliament for putting down the Court of Wards.  IT is this day Ordered by the Lords and Commons Assembled in Parliament, that the Court of Wards and Liveries, and all Wardship, Lilerie, Primer Seisins, and Austres les Manes, and all other charges incident or rising for or by reason of Wardship, Livery, Primer Seisin, or Austres les Manes be from this day taken away, and that all Tenors by Homage, and all Fynes, Lycences, Seizures, and Pardons for alienation, and all other charges incident thereunto he likewise taken away, and that all Tenors by Knight's service, either of his Majesty or others, or by Knight's service or Soccage in Capite of his Majesty, be turned into free and Common Soccage.   
This act of grace and happiness to the Kingdom I conceive not to be inferior to any of the former Acts or Votes passed by the Parliament, and must needs be extraordinary acceptable especially to the Gentry of England, who by means of that Court were kept under in a mighty deal of homage and vassalrie in their Children and estates; and they, therefore, now so much the more bound to do God the more good spiritual service by how much he hath thus set them and theirs at such an enlarged liberty and freedom from this temporal service.  
About the 26. of this instant February, we had certain and full confirmation by Letters both from active and courageous Colonel Birch of the famous victory obtained over the Enemy at Cardiff by the Parliaments forces under the Command of valiant and faithful Major General Laughorn, Sir Trevor Williams and Colonel Morgan, the substance whereof was, as followeth:  
Ragland-Castle in Wales having long time been fortified by the Earl of Worcester, a Papist, did of late much increase in strength, and committed many cruelties upon the County of Monmouth, plundering, firing and destroying Towns and Houses, having the whole Country under their power, except some few Garrisons of the Parliaments, 
The brave victory obtained over the Enemy at Cardiff in Glamorganshire  no way able to resist them: Now, at length, the Ragland horse drew towards Cardiff in Glamorganshire being a Parliament Garrison; whereupon the Governor and Committee there sent to Colonel Kern, lately made high-sheriff of that Shire by the Parliament, and to the rest of the Country to rise in a body, to oppose the Enemy. But contrary to expectation, this Colonel Kern and the Malignant Gentry being at their Rendezvouz, so prevailed with the people thus now raised, as to besiege Cardiff, 
Colonel Kern the high-sheriff revolts and joins with the Malig. Gentry against the Parliament.  which was done with about 2000 men; and so in a short time they took the Town; having also the assistance of the Malignant Townsmen. Hereupon the Governor, Committee and Soldiers, betook themselves to the Castle; And Gods good providence so ordered it, that Major General Laughorn, Sir Trevor William's and Colonel Keyrl and a party sent from Bristol from Major General Skippon, came in good season to their assistance; (for, the Governor and Committee, as I touched before, had sent to them and to Colonel Morgan, to acquaint them with their estate; their provisions were now almost spent in the Castle) and being so come fought most valiantly with the Country men and Ragland forces (who were joined on a Heath near the Town) and at length, by God's great mercy to us, routed them and just upon the nick thereof, Colonel Morgan with a party from Gloucester came in also unto them and did brave service in the pursuit of the Enemy where they slew many and took many prisoners and forced them to fly back to the Town; but Major General Laughorn pursued them and releived the Castle, the enemy continuing in the Town a while, till at last Articles were agreed on that they should march away with 〈◊〉 flying, match lighted 〈◊〉 But having marched some pretty distance from the Town, 〈◊〉 was given by the Enemy for ●●●ach of their articles, whereupon both sides were engaged in a second very hot fight, 
A second fight and brave victory.  in which were slain and drowned of the Enemy at least 400. above 500 taken prisoners, the rest were all scattered and fled; we lost very few men in this service, though many were hurt. This service, certainly, was of very great concernment, 
The slain, prisoners and prizes.  and rightly considered with the circumstances, was none of the least mercies, among many of our late famous successes and victories, which God vouchsafed us. For had the Treacherous plot took effect by this Colonel Kerns defaction and the revolt of this County of Glamorgan, 
The great concernment of this victory  South-wales had been lost again, which probably would have afforded many thousands to the king, to join in a body with Sir Jacob Ashley, who, to this end and on this hope had drawn his forces this way from Oxford to Worcester and so forward hither, thus to join and make strong recruites; and also to have gathered together their scattered quarter'd-men that came from Chester with Byron, and at Garrisons thereabout, and thus to make a fair army in the field presently. But, our God (with whom they consulted not) saw and smiled at their malice and mischief, and hath thus most graciously crushed this Cockatrice in the Egg; and made this dangerous defigne, a mere blasted Embryo dying in the womb; ever magnified and blessed be the Lord our good God for it.  
Upon the intelligence of which most famous victory to the Parliament, 
The Parliaments gratitude to Mayor Gen. Laughorn for this good service.  it was ordered that 1000 l. should be forthwith charged upon the Excise for the payment of renowned Major General Laughornes forces. And the Commons conferred upon himself an additional considerable estate, in regard of the singular good service, now and formerly performed by him most faithfully and successfully for the King and Parliament.  
And upon the 28. of this instant February we received most certain intelligence of the taking of Corff-Castle, which being fully related in a Letter sent from those parts from a special good hand, I have here for the Readers better content and satisfaction, inserted a Copy thereof, which was, as followeth: Sir There being in Corffe-castle, One Lieutenant Colonel Pitman, who had formerly served the Lord Inchiquin, in Ireland; upon some intimation given that he had a desire to do the Parliament an acceptable service in procuring this Castle to be delivered up to the Parliaments possession, 
Corffe Castle delivered up to the Parliament.  in case he might have a protection granted him. Accordingly a protection was here privately procured, and sent down unto him; and thereupon the plot was thus laid, viz. Lieutenant Colonel Pitman having speech with Captain Aniketell the Governor told him, that if he would give way unto it he would go into Somersetshire and privately get 100 men more, and bring them into the Castle, and then considering what had been formerly done he made no question but they should beat off the besiegers, and make them quit the place: and that he would find means to colour his going out by obtaining leave to go for an exchange of a friend of his for one of the Parliaments side that was prisoner in the Castle; Which being assented unto, and leave given by Colonel Bingham for him to go forth accordingly; an appointment was made, and the design so laid, as that Pitman under the Colour of bringing in the 100 men for the enemy should bring in 100 of the Parliaments Soldiers, and that the besiegers should give the onset the same time. Accordingly 100 commanded men were taken out of several Companies of the Garrison of Waymouth, and secretly marched to Lulworth castle, whence they marched away with some 30. or 40. more joined with them, as silently as they could until they came to the place; Lieutenant Colonel Pitman leading them on to the Sally-port, where Captain Aniketill the Governor stood to welcome them with much courtesy, some of the men being Somersetshiremen, fitted for the purpose, he being that Countryman, yet some intermixed amongst them in a disguised habit who knew all parts of the castle. When 50 of these were entered, Captain Aniketill seeing many yet behind refused to suffer any more to enter, saying, those were enough, and more than he could tell what to do with; at which Pitman seemed to be very angry, saying, he had done him wrong in causing him to bring men so far with the hazard of their lives, and then to shut them out, and make them lie in the cold, and to be in danger of having their throats cut. But those that were taken in got presently some of them into the King's Tower, others into the Queen's Tower, and the rest into the two Platforms, standing upon their guard, and making it good, expecting the besiegers would give the onset by scalado or otherwise, it being about two of the clock after midnight, and thus it continued three or four 〈◊〉, the besiegers in all that time never falling on, and the Garrison in the mean space shooting and vapouring and threatening to cut the throats of all that were entered. But those 50. standing stoutly to it, at last when it was open day the besiegers, when they saw their friends that were formerly entered to be on the tops of the Towers platforms, than they began to show themselves, and the enemy bestowed some shot on them but without doing any harm. At last the Garrison seeing themselves betrayed, and that it was bootless for them to stand it out any longer demanded a parley; which was granted and agreement made that all their lives should be spared, and those that were of the Town should return quietly to their houses, whereupon two by a ladder came over the walls. The rest seeing it, began again to shoot and so broke quarter: so as in conclusion they all became prisoners at discretion, their lives excepted being sevenscore in number or thereabout. The Soldiers got store of plunder; besides which, there were found 17. barrels of powder, with match, etc. good store of victual, besides 30. prisoners or thereabout set at liberty.  
In this Action there was but one man lost on the Parliaments side, though the Enemy shot often and threw down great stones from the wall. And thus the Lord, every way mightily showed himself for us, to the glory of his own great name, the good of us his unworthy servants and the great dread and amazement of all our implacable and incorrigible enemies, to him, therefore, alone, be all the honour and glory of all these our most memorable mercies and mighty deliverances.  
And here I shall again desire the godly Reader to make a short stay, and to take a brief and grateful review of all the rare and rich mercies of this Month also, in the Lords admirable preservation and advancement of the prosperity of this his Burning-Bush, thus, still not Consumed, nay chose, still freshly flourishing and preserved, 
The Burning Bush not Consumed.  both, in the reducing of Belvoir castle, the fair City of Chester, Town and Castle to the obedience of the Parliament, 
1.  In the brave defeat given to the Enemy at Ashbie de la Zouch and the prosperous proceedings of our forces in the 
2.  West. 
3.  In the establishment of the judges to ride their Circuits again, and keeping quarterly Assizes in all Country's 〈◊〉 the power of the Parliament. 
4  In the famous defeat given to the Enemy at Torrington in the West, and totally routing Hoptons' Army there. 
5  In putting down the Court of Wards; the famous preservation of Cardiff Town and Castle, and mighty victory obtained therein: 
6  And the stratagemicall possession of the strong Garrison of Corff-Castle. All which remarkable mercies seriously considered, and gratefully preponderated, O how great cause have we all with holy David frequently and frevently to enter into that his sweet Soul-Soliloquie, and pious expostulation with our own hearts, 
Psal. 116. 12, 13, 14.  What shall we re-pay and render to the Lord for all his benefits thus heaped and multiplied upon us? But take the Cup of salvation, and pay our Vows unto the Lord, which we have made in the depth of our dolorous days unto him. But now proceed.  
And now we shall again begin the most amiable and delectable 
March. 1646.  progress in the comfortable contemplation of the Parliamentary Mercies of this Month of March. 1646. with the farther most famous successful proceedings of our victorious Army in the West, since the coming thereof into Cornwall; and therein particularly their taking of Launceston, a strong Garrison of the Enemies in that Country, 
Launceston in Cornwall taken by the Parliaments Forces.  which being fully and truly related in a Letter by that worthy Gentlemen Master Rushworth, our most noble General Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Secretary, sent to the Speaker to the honourable House of Commons, I have here given the Reader an exact and true Copy thereof, which was as followeth;  
SIR,  
UPon Tuesday the 24 of Febr. the General began his march with the Army from Bedford, and part from Torrington, and quartered that night at Holsworth, being 12 miles from one place, and 15 miles from the other, an extraordinary rainy day, and ways extraordinary deep. Wednesday the 25 we advanced from Holsworth to Launceston, being ten long miles, that the Enemy might be the more amazed at the Armies entering of Cornwall, Colonel Butler was sent from Holsworth with a party of 1000 Horse and 400 Dragoons, on Tuesday night as far as Stratton in Cornwall, to beat up the Enemy's Quarters, and accordingly that night he passed the River, where the Enemy had raised up a Brest-Worke at Tamarton Bridge, and broke down the Bridge to hinder our passage over, but presently quit the passage, whereupon he forced the Horse as well as Foot, that kept Guard, to retreat to their other Guards. and 〈…〉 to the place appointed for their drawing together upon an 〈◊〉, when he charged their Horse several times: at last it pleased God to put the Enemy to the flight. He took about 300 Horse and 80 prisoners, he had more prisoners and some of quality, but the Soldiers minding their ●●ry and booty in Horses, many of the prisoners escaped; this party of Horse of the Enemies being about 800 that lay to keep Guard upon the River Tamar, was commanded by Major General Webbe, who with the rest of the Commanders, were put to a disorderly Retreat, with the rest of their Horses; which gave them such an alarm towards the North parts of Cornwall, that it forced them to draw their Horse back, the rest of the Army marching to Launceston, which amazed them likewise on the left hand, that if their intentions were for breaking through, we could not tell what resolution to take. When we came within two miles of Launceston, we met with their Scouts, having taken several of them, we understood that Colonel Basset with Horse and Foot was resolved to keep Launceston, and not to permit our entrance into the same, whereupon the forlorn hope of Horse and Foot were sent to force entrance into the Town, the Enemy shut the Gates, made some opposition, but at last quit the Town, and that disorderly; we took some prisoners, and killed some 〈◊〉 of them, night being come on, the rest escaped in the dark; the Arms and Magazine in the Town we seized upon; we find the Country, and particularly the place, to express much joy at our coming, though they were made believe by the Enemy, that the Army would give no quarter to any Cornish man or woman, which they did for the most part believe, and was the cause of a great terror upon them: but our Soldiers, notwithstanding the opposition they had at their entering of Launceston, did not so much as plunder any one house, nor did any other prejudice to the Town, that we can hear of, but I hope will so demean themselves in pursuance of the General's Proclamation, as we shall conquer the Cornish sooner by our civility than by the Sword. Thus far into Cornwall it pleased God to prosper things with us, and I hope when we come more into the heart of the County, we shall not find so many Enemies as friends. Very speedily you shall receive a fuller account from  
Your humble Servant, J. R. Launceston, 26. of Febr. 1645. about nine a clock in the morning.  
And upon the 2 of this instant March, 
Abington most percely a●sauled, and most bravely defended and preserved.  the honourable Houses of Parliament took the Garrison of Abington into their consideration; and it was ordered that moneys should speedly be sent down for the payment of it, as indeed it most worthily deserved, whom the Lord did most admirably assist and preserve from most dangerous and desperate ruin, by a most furious assault so daily made upon them by the Enemy from Oxford; whereof, as this day we were given to understand, and as by this ensuing Letter to renowned Major General Browne, is most apparent, even unto full satisfaction, which was as followeth:  
Honourable Sir;  
I Had not an opportunity to send my Letters formerly written, but now God hath afforded an occasion to speed away his Messenger on purpose, to let you know, that the last night the Enemy drew out of Oxford with a strong party of 1000 Horse, and all the strength they could make of 〈◊〉, and notwithstanding all our parties abroad, and our Horse Guard, they came between Thrupp and Norcot to Barton House, and kept covert till day light, and lay still after the Ravalue was beaten, and our out-Centinels called in, and then suddenly arising out of their Ambushment, taking the advantage, our Works (being caved out) at the Spurr, and other places, forced our Guards, beat them all from the Works, entered above 300 men, possessed themselves of Abby-Guard, Spur-Guard, Wayne-Guard and Barn, pressed hard towards the Prison, where three of their men were slain between Master Dues House and the Prison, by which time we had taken the Alarm, and our men were got together, and made good the passage, and then fearing lest they should possess themselves of Bore-Bridge, and so let in their Horse, (which they had in great numbers about our Works) I commanded a party toward the Bridge, and lodged them in the old Redoubt at Bore-Lane end, which was of much good use for us; for, by keeping that, we kept the Town. I also sent another party which did very good service at Wainyard. In the 〈◊〉 time our Horse did most gallantly charge their Foot, routed their Musketeers, and we had doubtless taken most of them that were over the Work, but that they were preserved by a strong body of their Pikes. Major blundel and Colonel Washburn came in unto us in good time, 
Our men most bravely charges the Enemy.  charged gallantly through the thickest of them, which so terrified them, that being on all sides beset, they quit their ground, tumbled over the Works faster than they came in; 
The Enemies beaten out of the Town.  and besides them they carried away, we took 13 prisoners of them. There were slain on our party but two Common Soldiers: Captain Taylor, Captain maddock's, Quartermaster Cox, were dangerously wounded; 
The hurt on our side.  Major blundel slightly hurt with a Halberd on the thigh, Captain Keeling shot in the hand, Colonel Washburn had his great bay horse slain under him, Quartermaster Arnot and Major Blundels' Cornet Horses were slain, and many of our men sorely wounded. The dispute was very harsh for the time, but God gave our men such spirits, that scorning death, they resolved rather to lose their lives than the Town, and some of them fought most desperately in their shirts only as they started out of their beds, 
Some of ours most desperately fought in their shirts only.  and could but snatch up their weapons, and fly to their Horses. Our Horse Guard that lay without Ockbridge ran all away, whether for fear of the Enemy, or for fear of being called to an account for their neglect, I know not, they were part of Sussex Troop. I desire you will please to order the Officers of Colonel Rainsboroughs Regiment to come down to look to their charge, there being here but four of ten Commanders. I am informed that the King hath sworn he will have Abbington and will fire it; 
The King vowed to have Abington, and to fire it.  and that this night again we shall be assaulted with 2500 men; I doubt not, if he come, but he shall find us better ●●aided than before. Sir, I beseech you be pleased to hasten down some 〈◊〉 for the relief of our poor men, whose necessities are great, and their need of encouragement as great. Sir, I shall desire to approve myself, to the utmost of my power,  
Your Honours most humble Servant, George Pain. Abington, March 2. 1645.  
And here, good Reader, I shall desire thee to take notice of God's extraordinary providence in the preservation of this Town, 
A passage of special providence in the preservation of Abington.  i● one especial passage, which was omitted in the Letter, whereof I was credibly informed, viz. That the Enemy having got the Magazine in their power, or so near it, that they might have fired it yet were so confident that the Town was certainly theirs, that though they might, yet they therefore did not: whereas, I say, had they doubted the taking of it, they would, no doubt, have done it, and then had irrecoverably mastered the Town, our Soldiers not having above three charges of powder left them at that time, and so might easily have been all destroyed and taken. Besides, had they taken this Town, 
Abingtons' bad and sad condition had it now been taken.  they would have first plundered it to purpose, and carried away whatever was portable and worth having, and then unquestionably, have set the whole Town on fire, as not being tenable by them, as their case then stood, the King (at this time) necessitated to draw all the Soldiers into the Field, for the forming of a Field Army, and not able to keep or increase Garrisons, especially this Garrison at this time. Therefore, I say, see what an admirable mercy, and special providence and protection of the Lord was here seen to this Town; and therefore what great praise and Thanksgiving is due to the Lord for the same. But to go on.  
Upon the 4. of this instant we received the certain intelligence and confirmation of the surrender of the strong Garrison of Ashbie de la Zouch, 
Ashbie de lazouch surrendered to the Parliament.  to Leicester forces. The conditions of the surrender were, that Hastings, alias, the Lord of Loughborough, together with his brother the Earl of Huntingdon and Colonel Perkins should have their estates unsequestred, protections for their persons, & passes to go beyond Sea; the rest of the Officers to have liberty to compound for their sequestration, and passes (if desired) to go beyond Sea also; and the Garrison to be slighted. Too good Conditions indeed, for such a desperate and wicked Rob-Caryer as Hastings was, but that the Kingdom may be glad to be rid of such wretches. The surrender was made accordingly on Monday, the second instant. We took therein. 5. Pieces of Ordnance, about 300. Arms, little ammunition, and no great store of other provisions. A great mercy and mighty preservation of the peace and tranquillity of all those ad-jacent Parts about it, for which let God have all the due praise and glory. 
Our Armies singular good success in Cornwall, and the taking of Bodman Listithiel and Ware Bridge.   
About the 6. of this instant March, we had farther certain information of the singular good success of our army in the West passing on most prosperously by God Almighty guard and guidance; The sum of which days intelligence was contained in these 2. ensuing Letters from Master Rushworth, which was as followeth:  

To the Honourable W. Lenthall Speaker to the Honourable House of Commons.  
SIR,  
IN my last I acquainted you with the Armies coming to Launceston and of the taking 300. horse near Stratton. By reason of the long, marches the Foot had taken, and many stragglers behind, the General and the Army rested at Launceston two days; and on Saturday last, the Army advanced five or six miles towards Bodman. And this day the Horse and Foot had a General Rendezouz upon the Downs within eight Miles of Bodman; the Forlorn Hope being sent out, they 〈◊〉 with the Eenmies' Scouts, there being eight of them together, which our men took (not one escaping) they all confess they had no intelligence of our coming; that they belonged to a Guard of 300. Horse that was kept on a Pass within three miles of Bodman; and within two miles where they were taken, the Army advancing near to that place, we discovered a Body of the Enemy's Horse, at about two miles' distance, who made a stand, and faced us for a while; but before ever we came were them, retreated to Bodman: As we were upon the Moor, intelligence came. That the two Companies of Dragoons that were sent towards Camelford the other day, and had possessed an House, the better to gain intelligence, if the Enemy intended to break through Eastward, were in some hazard by a great Body of the Enemy's Horse that were 〈◊〉 between them and the Randezvouz, and forced them into a Close for their security; whereupon a thousand Horse were sent to relieve them, but before they came, the Dragoons themselves had beaten off the Enemy, and made good their retreat to a Church, without the loss of a man. Sir James Smith with his Brigade, was the man that had a Design to have surprised them; but now we are in a manner gotten between him and Bodman; for the Army quarters in the field, and all the Villages hereabouts, that he can hardly make his retreat, unless he took the opportunity before our Horse came up. At our coming into Cornwall, especially at Launceston, we found the people possessed with an opinion, That there would be no mercy shown unto the Cornish; but after a day being at Launceston, the Town seeing the carriage of the Soldiers so fair, and not one House plundered (not so much as the Governors own house) and the Country being possessed with the like opinion of the civil carriage of this Army, came into the Market, and brought in provisions for supply of our Forces; but in regard goring Forces had plundered the Country of all their Horse, people were glad to bring it in on their backs. And Friday being the day for the Posse of the whole Country to appear at Bodman, all the North part of Cornwall refused to appear, they positively affirming, They found us Friends, and not Enemies; and those that were on the Westside of Bodman, likewise refused to come in, saying, They had not greater Enemies than goring Horse that were among them. A Gentleman whom I spoke withal this day, who was at their meeting said, The Horse only appeared, the Posse Foot wholly refused to come in; and indeed, there cannot be a greater advantage to us, than to drive goring Horse before us; for their carriages are so barbarous, that they made every man's hand against them where they came: The Army had been this night at Bodman, but in regard the Enemy is numerous in Horse, and that we marched much upon the Downs, and was like to be late before we could get in, it was held fit to quarter in the Fields and Villages thereabouts, and the next day to march in a close Body, Horse and Foot, though it be the slower way, yet it is the more secure: The Prisoners that were taken this day, told me, they were glad with all their hearts they were taken upon so fair quarter; for they knew they should be all taken at last (they said) and that they give themselves already for lost: And indeed, God hath strooken their hearts with a terror. Some Gentlemen of quality have sent privately for protections, whose not appearing against us, though not for us, keeps all that part of the Country in where they are; And just now we have intelligence, that the Lord Mohun is unwilling to obey the Lord Hoptons' Commands, and rather stands upon his Guard against his Forces, than to assist him with any: as far as I can conceive in my poor judgement, we shall drive the Enemy to a corner; and it may please God to bring their Horse to accept of conditions as well as formerly they did bring our Foot; for unless this very night they do break through, which they can hardly do, considering how our Forces are laid, we have them then before us to the Lands end.  
Your most humble Servant, J.R. St. Blessenden, March 1. 1645.   

THe Messenger staying till the morning, I thought fit to give you this further account of the Enemy's motion and our proceedings: This morning by break of the day, the Army was drawn to a Rendezvouz upon the Heath within two miles of Bodman, a party being sent out to discover if the Enemy were in the Town, brought Intelligence they quit the Town last night about ten of the clock, Horse and Foot, the Lord Hopton bringing up the Rear himself: The most of the Foot they had were Welshmen, having Leeks in their Hats, and drunk, and went out disorderly: They marched toward Truro with a good part of their horse; the rest of their Horse we this morning received Intelligence marched towards Warre-Bridge, as if they intended to go Eastward; whereupon Lieutenant General Cromwell who went the night before to relieve our Dragoons, was sent unto by the Generell to desire him to secure the passage at Ware-Bridge, by placing some Dragoons there; who being there with one thousand Horse, and four hundred Dragoons, will give a seasonable interruption to the Enemies advance that way. We find the Towns-people in Bodman no ways fearful of our coming, rather desiring it: They say they have had no Market these two Market days, by reason that goring Horse robbed the Market people, and take away their Horses. There were two Regiments of Foot and two of Horse sent this morning from their Rendezvouz about nine of the clock, to assist those forces at Ware-Bridge, thereby we might the better drive the Enemy before us into a narrow compass of Land. At this place where we are, we may see the Sea on both hands; if the Enemy had had any gallantry left in them, they would have showed it upon our approach to Bodman, their only strength consisting in Horse, where they had room enough upon the Downs to play their Game, but they never appeared but once, and that at two miles' distance, and retreated, I have spoken with some of the Inhabitants of this Town, who were at the grand Posse at Bodman on Friday last, and they affirm, That of the whole County of Cornwall, there did not appear Eighty men; but goring Horse, and the Horse of the County, all appeared in a great body, Those Foot that were in Bodman, were some of the Runaways from Torrington, and some Welshmen that were left at Launceston, and fled hither, and some others of the Country, in all to the number of four hundred at the most, which is the only body of Infantry they have left that we can yet hear of: the same Intelligencer confirmed, That the Lord Mahone is either restrained or wounded by the Lord Hopton; yet the certainty thereof, more than the public report of the Country, we cannot yet hear. I doubt it falls out ill we have not a Squadron of Ships towards Fulmouth, where no doubt they may have rich booty, and intercept persons of great quality. Several Letters have been sent unto Plymouth, to the Commander in chief upon these Coasts; we hope that they will yet come seasonable: The Prince is at Pendennis, and I believe within two days will be in France if the wind hold. The head Quarter was this night at Bodman; three Regiments marched to Listithiel to secure the passage that way: the Forlorn hope of Horse that went thither, made the Enemy quit their Guard at Listithiel; and receiving Information that four Wain-load of Ammunition was in the way to go from Listithiel to Foy, six of the Troopers road after it, and made the Convoy defert their charge, and brought back the four load of Ammunition this night to Bodman, there being 〈…〉 to every draught: Likewise a party being sent out another way, overtook forty two Musketeers, who had their Matches lighted, and Muskets loaden, four Troopers 〈◊〉 up unto them, and made them all lay down their Arm, and brought them back Prisoners to the head Quarters. Another party was sent towards Truro, to discover whether the Enemy's Horse remained in a body, and at Castle-Den● is discovered a body of about a thousand horse an hour before night, which we conceive only ●●aid till the darkness of the night to draw off, after the rest further West; they are so Alarmed by our parties, that they are forced to keep in bodies, and can hardly goe● to Quarter, which will quickly make them weary and over-watch●, and altogether unfit to break through if they had any such intention, which I believe now they have not: That we keep strong Guards at Listithiel, Ware-Bridge, and the Fords upon both Rivers. Sir John Greenville Lieutenant Colonel, and divers others are taken Prisoners.  
Bodman, March 2. ten at night.   
About the 8 of this instant March we received most certain information, That the valiant and most faithful Commander, Colonel Moor, Governor of Mountgo●●ie Castle marched forth in much privacy with a party of about 26. horse and 70. foot having got intelligence that Sir john Watts, late Governor of Chirk-Castle situated within 4. miles of Osmestrie, quartered that night within 3. miles of 〈◊〉- Castle, which with security he conceived, he might the beaten do● in regard the Governors' troop of horse was at the siege before Higharchall; 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy by valiant Colonel Moor.  and the forces of Red-castle were with Colonel Mitton before 〈◊〉. But this brave and as valiant a● vigilant Commander, Colonel Moor, with his foresaid small par●ie, fell suddenly and Courageously in to Sir john Watts his quarter's, but the Enemy much good the Church about 2 hours until the doors were 〈◊〉 upon them; Whereupon our● entered, and Sir john himself was there taken prisoner, together with 5. Captains, 2. Lieutenants, 6. Gentlemen of worth and quality, one Priest, 100 foot, 50. gallant horse, besides tro●pe horses and all his baggage. These forces were appointed to have met Sir Jacob Ashley at his Rendezvous, but were thus happily 〈◊〉 by the gallantry of this noble Colonel Moor, whereby that design was thus much lessened, blessed be the Lord for it.  
And the 12 of this instant March we received yet more excellent news of our most noble and victorious Generals still prosperous advances into Cornwall, by Letters from the foresaid worthy Gentleman Master Rushworth, the General's Secretary, to the Honourable Speaker of the House of Commons, which for the Readers better content and full satisfaction, I have here inserted, verbatim, as they were printed and published by authority, which were as followeth:  
To the Honourable William Lenthall Esquire, Speaker to the Honourable House of Commons.  
SIR,  
IN my last I gave you an account of the Armies being at Bodman, Listithiel, and parts thereabouts; since that time we have not advanced (it being held fit to spend two or three days in securing as far as we are gone, and leaving all safe behind us) the business of Mount-Edgecomb hath somewhat taken up our time, I hope to good purpose; for this day came Master Coriton, Master Lower, Master Glanvile, (all formerly Members of the House of Commons) and Master Trevisa to the General from Master Edgecomb, concerning the surrender of his Fort, and disbanding of his Regiment, and the Forces thereabouts, which is agreed unto, I hope upon such Conditions as will not be unacceptable to the Parliament. What influence this, and the coming in of other Gentlemen of this County may have upon the rest of the Country, you may easily perceive, especially if you consider the quality of the persons of those that are already come in, and desire to live under the protection of the Parliament, viz.  

The Lord Mal●●●●.  
Sir John Trelawny  
Colonel Trelawney  
Sir Nicholas 〈◊〉  
Thomas Lomax Esq  
Pierce Edgeworth Esq  
William Se●●●●● Esq  
Mr. Corriton.  
William Bond Esq  
Richard Edgeworth Esq  
Mr. Glanvile Esq  
Major Nicholas Saul.  
Capt. William Bond of Earth.  
Capt. Bourn.  
Capt, William Saul.  
Alexander Lower Esq  
Mr. Francis Saul.  
Nathaniel Trevanion of Tregerthen Esq  
Major William Trevisa of Crokedon Esq  
John Battersby Esq  
Richard Spur Esq  
Jo. Roe of Trewarnan Esq  
John Horndon.  
Col. Champernoon.  
Mr. Rashly.  
Mr. John Trevery Governor of Foy.  
Mr. Bageley.  
Mr. Walter Hele.  
Lieut. Col. Fortescue.  
Major Warren.  
Sir Richard Prideaux, High Sheriff of the County, and divers others.  
Also Mr. Arrundel the Papist, a man of power, desires to be under the Protection of the Parliament.   
And as a further Testimony of the reality of some others of the Inhabitants of this County near Saint Columb (and yet in a manner now in the power of the Enemy) this ensuing Petition delivered by the hands of Master Vivian, with the consent of the Inhabitants of those parts where he lives, will in some measure show their affection to the Parliament.  

To the Right Honourable Sir Thomas Fairfax Knight, Captain General of the Forces raised by the High Court of Parliament under his Command; and other the renowned Worthies of that Army.  
Right Honourable:  
WE (though not an acceptable number of a more unacceptable County) having by God's blessing, so fair an advantage of giving our due respects to your Honour, do with them present our persons also; which we most unfeignedly protest have been hitherto by us, most unvoluntarily separated, as our former readiness and frequent endeavours to advance this service; besides Imprisonments, Fines, and other most miserable sufferings, can evidently testify: And therefore we first bl●sse the great Lord of Hosts, by whose providence you are made such victorious Ministers of our deliverance from such intolerable bondage; and next to our great and wise Council, by whose public care and commission, we have the happiness this day to see you Conquerors for the preservation of our Religion, so long violated, and restitution of our liberty, so long enthralled: Neither may we omit a grateful acknowledgement of the unexampled valour and vigilance, which have been so magnanimously exercised for the reducing of this unhappy Kingdom from the woeful condition of a bloody war, to so fair hopes of an assured and most happy peace: And now since it hath pleased God thus to bless us; we presume not to motion through difference your future care of his Glory and the Commonwealths good; having so many rare examples of your readiness to defend both: However, give us leave as a people that to our great grief and misery have so long a time wanted the happy influence and equity of the Law to relieve us, to mention our desires of their reparation; whereby also to distinguish ourselves from those which have with an high hand endeavoured to subvert them: and as hitherto you have not wanted our Prayers to God for a blessing upon your Counsels and Actions So now, your Honour shall not want the ready, though weak assistance, so far as the lives and fortunes shall extend, of your servants and faithful votaries.  
The taking into consideration this Petition, and the coming in of the persons afore mentioned; as also the rising of the Inhabitants at Camelford, Ginny-Hill, and other parts in the East and North of Cornwall for our assistance; it was held fit to summon a Posse of five or six of the hundreds, to appear at Bodman-Down to morrow being Friday, where some will be fitted with Instructions, to impart the General's mind unto them: For to morrow part of the Army advances to Saint Columbe and other parts; the Enemy is retreated from Castle Dennis, and last night had his Head Quarter about Truro: some part of their Forces at S. Allens, and kept Guard near S. Columb; as our staying here three days will prove to our advantage in settling these Eastern parts of the Country; So we are confident it will do so for the Western; for goring Horse will sufficiently incline the people to wish the coming of this Army for their ease and preservation. The Enemy gave out they would plunder Truro, because the people there already appear for us; but it was answered, Whether should they go with their plunder when they had it: Several of the Prince's servants have sent unto the General for Passes to come in, and to repair to their homes; which I conceive they now solicit for, in regard the Prince is gone to Sea: but where he is landed, we yet hear not. Last night a Vessel out of Ireland came into Padstow, the Townsmen seized upon her, and three other Vessels, going out with plundered Goods, and sent to our Forces at Ware-Bridge for assistance, which was this morning accordingly sent unto thme. A Spy is just now come from the Enemy's Quarters; most of their forces are North of Truro: We shall be very near Truro to morrow night. I believe the General after one days advance will send a Summons to the Lord Hopton. I take my leave, and rest  
Your most faithful and humble Servant Jo. Rushworth. Bodman, March 5. 1645. two in the afternoon.   

SInce the writing of my Letter, here is Captain far come from Padstow, who with Captain Wogan boarded the Irish Vessel, and with the assistance of the Townsmen and Townswomen put them all to the Sword but two, about thirty in all, wicked natural Irish. God hath most seasonably brought that Vessel thither: It enrages the Country against the King's party for bringing in of foreigners. These are but the forerunners of many thousands speedily to come over, as by their Packets of great concernment appears: Indeed, of so great concernment, considering from whom they come, that it is not fit to be lightly mentioned: they were thrown into the Sea, yet recovered; an express is to come up with them: We have cause to bless God for such a mercy. Several of those Letters subscribed by Glamorgan, Ormond, and Digby, were this day read to Master Corriton, Mr. Lower, Mr. Glanvile, Mr. Trevisa, etc. And one of the two Irish that had not his throat cut, was brought before them, which hath so satisfied them of the King's intentions, and ready preparations to bring in bloody Irish Rebels into this Kingdom, that they offer, to the hazard of Life and Estate, in person to oppose them. I will say no more till the Letters come: Pardon my haste.  
Bodman, March 5. 1645. six at night.  
A Summons is gone to Hopton.   
Which Summons coming in here most fitly by that mention thereof and of most singular excellency, and worthy to be recorded to posterity, I have thought convenient and very necessary here to insert it, the Copy whereof was as followeth:  

Sir, through the goodness of God to his people and his just hand against their enemies, your forces being reduced to such condition, as (to my sense, the same good hand of God continuing with us, wherein alone we trust) they are not like either to have subsistence or shelter long where they are, 
The Summons sent to Hopton.  or to escape thence, nor (if they could) have they whither to go for better: I have thought good (for prevention of more bloodshed, or of further hardship or extremity to any, but such whose hearts God shall harden to their own destruction to send you this Summons for yourself and them to lay down Arms, and withal a tender of such conditions (upon a present surrender and engagement, never more to bear Arms against the Parliament) as may be better than any thing they can rationally expect by further standing out.  
First therefore to the Souldery in General, English and Foreigners, I shall grant liberty either to go beyond Sea, or to their homes in England as they please; and to such English as shall choose to live at home, my Protection for the liberty of their persons, and for the immunity of their estates from all plunder or violence of Soldiers, and all to go their ways with what they have, saving Horse and Arms.  
But of Officers in Commission, and Gentlemen of quality, I shall allow them to go with horse for themselves and one servant or more suitable to their quality, and with Arms befitting Gentlemen in a condition of Peace. And such Officers as would go● beyond Sea for other service to take with them their Arms and full number of horses answerable to their Offices.  
To all Troopers and the inferior sort of Horse Officers [bringing in and delivering up their horses and arms] twenty shillings a man [in lieu of their horses] to carry them home.  
To English Gentlemen of considerable Estates, my Pass and Recommendation to the Parliament for their moderate composition.  
Lastly, for yourself (besides what is before employed to you in common with others) you may be assured of such mediation to the Parliament in your behalf both from myself and others, as for one, whom (for personal worth and many virtues, but especially for your care of and moderation towards the Country) we honour and esteem above any other of your party, whose Error (supposing you more swayed with Principles of Honour and Conscience than other) we most pity and whose happiness (so far as consistent with the public welfare) we should delight in more than in your least suffering.  
These things not from any need or other ends than Humane, and Christian] having offered, I leave to your consideration and theirs whom they concern, desiring your and their speedy resolving, which I pray may be such, as shall be most for the honour of God, the peace and welfare of this poor Kingdom, and for your and their good so far as may stand therewith.  
And having herein discharged (as I conceive) the duty of an honest man, a Soldier and a Christian, if God shall see it good to let your hearts be hardened against your own peace, I shall (though with some regret for that ill which shall ensue to any; yet with chieerfulness and rejoicing at the righteous Judgements of God) pursue my charge and trust for the public in another way, not doubting of the same presence and blessing which God hath hitherto vouchafed in the same Cause, to the weak endeavours of  
Thomas Fairefax. March 5. 1645.   
About the 16. 
A brave defeat given to the Enemy at Saint Culbumbe in Cornwall, and that Garrison taken them.  of this instant, we received more certain intelligence by Letters out of the West, of the still continued good hand of God unto us in Cornwall, and in particular of a brave defeat given to the Enemy by our forces there at or about Saint Cullumbe and the taking of that Garrison from the Enemies, which being fully and faithfully set forth to the Parliament, by master rushworth's Letter, I have here thought fit to give the Reader a sight of the Copy thereof; which was as followeth.  
TO The Honourable William Lenthal Esq Sheaker of the Honourable House of COMMONS.  
SIR,  
BY the last Messenger, the Packet from Ireland taken in the vessel at Padstow, was sent unto you, which I hope came safe to your hands; by which original letters under the hand of the Earl of Glamorgan, you will perceive how (as yet) he is employed for the bringing over of an Army, and what private correspondency there is between him, the Prince, the Lord Hopton and other persons of Note (notwithstanding, he is under the cloud of being accused of High Treason) his being at liberty, & acting the King's Commands in bringing over an Army of natural Irish Rebels, and his correspondency with the Prince, Hopton, etc. is enough to satisfy the World, by whose Command he manages that Affair. I also acquainted you with a Summons sent to the Lord Hopton (or rather honourable conditions) if he would instantly lay down Arms, and disband the Forces in the West, which being sent unto him upon Thursday last, and no Answer returned on Friday: On Saturday the Army advanced towards Saint Collumb, and being drawn to a Rendezuouz four miles from Bodman; the Wether proved so extreme wet, that it was not held fit to advance on any further that day; and so the Foot were appointed to Quarters in Villages thereabouts, and a mile or two forwards: The Horse being likewise at the Rendezvouz, returned to their Quarters; but some went to Quarter nearer the Enemy, and to the Guards, except a very good party of about eight hundred Horse and Dragoons, commanded by Colonel Rich, who was sent away with the same, with Orders to fall upon the Enemy; Guards or Quarters, as he should see it most fit for the service; and accordingly within two hours of Evening, he fell upon their Outguards near St. Cullumb, beat them to their Mainguard: Being then drawn up in a Body, ours likewise drew into three Divisions; one commanded by Colonel Rich, another by Major Fincher, and the third by Major Scroop: The Enemy seeing no way but to fight, the Van of them gave a very good charge: Major General P●rt breaking through one Division himself: But they were instantly put to the Rout, and we had the pursuit of them for three or four Miles, killing many, took about an hundred prisoners, whereof Major General Pert was one, and betwixt two hundred and three hundred Horse. This so Alarmed the Enemy, that it made them desert the Head-quarter for a mile, and caused them to draw all their Horse to a Rendezvouz at eleven of the Clock at night on Michel-Downe, and so continued in the Wet in a great Rain till the next morning, thinking the whole Army had been advanced. Our party returned to St. Collumb, and this morning brought the Prisoners to Town. This party of the Enemies were of the Princes own Regiment, most of them Reformadoes Officers; they confess their Soldiers are very weary, and that if it were published among them, they might have Passes to go home it was not in the Officers power to keep them together; They likewise say, that most of their Officers, if they knew they might be accepted into the protection of the Parliament, they would desert the Service.  
Being asked, if they had heard any Propositions were sent unto them from the General, offering honourable conditions both to Officers and Soldiers, they answered they never heard of any; so by that we perceive the Lord Hopton with some few of his Council keeps the propositions from being published: There are some others come from thence, who say that the French are mighty inquisitive to know whether they might be so far received into favour as to have leave to go beyond seas: Laying all these together, we are of opinion, that it will not be in Hoptons' power to hinder a good effect to the propositions sent him; so soon as the same is published amongst them, which before this, we hope by some means that hath been used is effectually done: This day the General's Trumpeter that went with the summons, is returned with a brief answer from the Lord Hopton to this purpose: That he had taken the letter from the General into consideration, but the sudden advance of our forces gave an interruption to mention at this time any particulars, but by a Trumpeter of his own he would send a particular answer: The Trumpeter was courteously used and much respected. This evening the Lord Hoptons' Trumpeter is come with a letter in answer to the General's propositions, which indeed implies a willingness to end the business of the West without more blood shed, but yet desires to be satisfied whether the King and Parliament be not near a conclusion of a Peace; for being entrusted by the King, it concerns him to support his honour as long he can; and yet withal inclines to have some Country Gentleman come unto him to satisfy him of the state of affairs: Taking altogether, it argnes a coming to us, though it seems yet a distance, or else a way to get time (which I rather believe, because he invited a cessation) until some Irish do land, which is the thing rumoured abroad in their Army, and expected to be there within eight and forty hours; and indeed a duplicate of that Packet we intercepted at Padstow, is since arrived with the enemy, whereby its probable they hasten ships unto them, for the bringing over those Irish that were intended for Chester into these parts: What ever his intention is, the General will not lose a minute of time: All the Regiments this day advanced to and beyond Cullomb within three miles of Truro with a great part of the horse; the headquarter is at Bodman with one Regiment there, which we leave to secure the pass.  
To morrow the General and Lieutenant General advance after the Army, and I believe will quarter at Truro to morrow at night: This advance as it is like to further a good effect upon the Propositions (if God incline their hearts unto it) so it will I hope dispatch the business before such time as any Irish can land: If there be a Treaty it must not be such a one as shall take up above one day's time: therefore a few days will decide that business, and I hope (with God's blessing) much to your advantage and the peace and welfare of this Kingdom. Major General Pert is run through the body, and shot in the body yet not mortal: There was found in his Pocket a Copy of a Letter to the Lords, about the Prince, either sent, or to be sent by him, advising them, That now was a good time to Treat before our Forces advance further; declaring, That they feared else their Condition would be desperate.  
The Country is very forward to assist in the Barrocadoing up of all Lanes and Passes, where probably the Enemy (if they intent to break through) may attempt to pass by. This being all I have to trouble you with, I rest,  
Your most faithful and Humble Servant, J. R. Bodman, March 8. 1645.  
Much also about this same time Sir Ralph Hopton looked very earnestly for new supplies out of Ireland, 
Sir Ralph Hopton expects supplies out of Ireland.  and received Letters thence that he should have them, and that they were ready for him, if he would be pleased to send forth ships to transport them over unto him. 
Foy taken  But, Foy also was now taken by the Parliaments forces, and in it 13. pieces of Ordnance and the news hereof made Pendennis tremble, 
Pendennis besieged.  hearing especially her enemies approaching near her, and now already thundering against her walls; The inhabitants of Cornwall, on all sides, come in unto renowned Sir Thomas Fairfax, being overcome as much by his mercy and clemency, as by his might and courage, who thus drove his Enemies still before him, terrifying Hopton also by his power and prowess and now at last inviting him by his Summons, the effects whereof you now shall hear, namely, that about the 18 of this instant March we received the certain intelligence of the Demands of Sir Ralph Hopton, upon our most noble General's Summons, which were as followeth:  

Sir Ralph Hoptons' Demands.  
SIR,  
I Received yours, bearing date the fifth of this Month, wherein I must acknowledge much kindness from you, and a very Christian consideration of sparing of blood: But one thing there is, I am confident, you have too much honour to expect from me, which is, that to avoid any danger, or to enjoy any worldly advantage, I will renounce my Master's Service, to whom I am both a sworn Subject, and a sworn servant, that I must profess, I am resolved to undergo all fortunes with him, and if there shall be cause, to suffer any thing, rather than in the least point to taint my honour in that particular, and I hope, there is not a man of any consideration in this Army, under my command, that is not so resolved; yet in all honest and honourable ways, to procure the peace of this Kingdom, and the sparing of Christian blood, I take God to witness, I am, and still have been mostdesirous: And I hear, from good hands, our Gracious Sovereign, is at present so far advised to a Treaty with the Parliament, as that he hath promised to pass four of the principal of their Bills proposed, whereof the intrusting the Militia for seven years, in hands agreed between them is one. I desire you to deal freely with me in that particular, for if that be so, it will spare the labour of further Treaty; being, for my part, ready to obey whatsoever his Majesty shall agree unto: God indeed hath of late humbled us with many ill successes, which I acknowledge as a very certain evidence of his just judgement against us for our personal crimes: Yet, give me leave to say, your present prosperity cannot be so certain an evidence of his being altogether pleased with you. It is true, we are reduced to a lower condition than we have been, yet have we a gallant body of Horse, that being preserved to a general all accord, may be for good use against our common Enemies, and being otherwise pressed, I may say it without vanity, want not a resolution, at least to sell ourselves at a dear rate against any odds; Your Propositions, though they be not wholly to be consented unto, yet if a general accord, much more desirable, be not in a likely forwardness to prevent them, I shall be willing, that eight Commanders of ours, with three Country Gentlemen, give a meeting as soon as you please, to an equal number of yours at any indifferent place, to consult of this great business, and to conclude of some Propositions that may be reasonable and honourable for both parts, wherein I hope God will s● bless our clear intentions, as may procure a probable inducement to a general peace, according to the unfeigned desire of  
Your Servant, RALPH HOPTON. March 8. 1645.   

A Party of yours falling upon a Guard of ours yesterday, it is likely they have taken some prisoners; I desire the favour from you, to receive a List of them by this Trumpeter, till I receive a positive Answer to the contents of this Letter, I shall not permit any of mine to attempt any thing upon any of your Forces.  
Your Servant, RALPH HOPTON.   

Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Answer.  
My Lord:  
I Should most freely and truly inform your Lordship the best I could in any thing that might lead you to a right understanding of things in order, to the Peace of the Kingdom, or the real good of yourself and those with you, so far as may stand with my trust and duty to the Publiqve; to what I conceive your more certain knowledge of that your desire to be informed in, concerning the Kings offers to the Parliament, would not be prejudicial: But the truth is, I can give you no other satisfaction or assurance therein, than this, That the King hath made some offers to the Parliament, and amongst them one concerning the Militia something to the purpose, as you say you have heard, but the just certainty what his last overtures are, or how far they have advanced towards a general accord, I cannot at present certify; I do not hear they have proceeded so far as to a Treaty; and I believe, That as the Parliament may be discouraged from that way of Treaty by former experiences of the fruitlessness thereof, and the ill use the same hath been designed or driven to, viz. only to gain advantages for Wars, without real intention of Peace; so the late overtures that way are the less like to be successful, by reason of the clear and certain discoveries the Parliament have had. That his Majesty at the same time was and is labouring by Agents in all parts, to draw in Foreign Forces, and especially, That the Earl of Glamorgan by Commission from his Majesty, had concluded a Peace with the Irish Rebels on Terms extremely dishonourable and prejudicial, upon the only condition of sending over forces under the command of that Lord, to invade England, whereof I presume you cannot but have heard: And though his Majesty did in a Letter to the Parliament disavow any such agreement, and pretended he had given order to the Lord Digby, for the attainting and impeaching the Earl of Glamorgan of high Treason, for what he had done therein: Yet by late discoveries to the Parliament, and especially by Letters intercepted the other day at Padstow, from the Lord Digby, the Earl of Glamorgan and others, to Secretary Nicholas, yourself, Sir Edward Hide, the Lord Culpepper, and others, it is most clear and evident, that the arresting of the Earl of Glamorgan, was only for a present colour to salve reputation with the people, and continue their delusion till designs were ripe for execution: for the same peace is fully concluded with the Rebels, the King to have the aid conditioned upon the same agreement, and the Earl of Glamorgan at liberty again, and to command that force in chief. Now for the overture of a meeting to treat further about the Propositions I sent; Though I know nothing material that I can add or alter, except in circumstances; yet I shall not refuse or decline such a meeting, or aught else that may probably tend to the saving of blood, or preventing further misery to any; Provided that the meeting be speedily, and number of persons not to exceed 4 or 5. But (my Lord) when you consider what I have before related concerning foreign Supplies, which I have reason to think you know and believe, you see what cause I have to be jealous of advantages sought by delays, & not intermit any time, or omit any opportunity to prosecute the service I have in hand; and that there may be no colour of your expecting that forbearance on my part, which you offer on yours, I do the more hasten back this my resolution unto you; In pursuance whereof I do not despise, nor shall insult upon your present condition: I question not, nor yet shall, I hope, be much moved with that resolution of your men: I presume not on former successes, nor present advantage in fleshly power, but desire to trust in God alone, whose favour and blessing to this Army above others, I do not account in what is past, or expect in future, to be for any precedence in merit or goodness of ours, whereby we should be more pleasing to him than others; but from his own free grace and goodness towards his people, whose welfare, with the common good of the Kingdom, we seek and desire with all faithfulness and integrity to pursue. And so committing the issue of all to his good pleasure, I remain  
Your humble Servant, T. FAIRFAX. March 9 1645.  

A List of such as are come in to Sir Thomas Fairfax during the Treaty.  
THirty five Lieutenant Colonels, 
A List of the number of 〈◊〉 Gentry of Cornwall came in to the Parliament.  Sergeant Majors, and Captains came in, March 11.  
Forty Gentlemen of quality that came in the same day, some of great note.  
One hundred Gentlemen, and others that have sto●ne away by parties out of the Enemy's Quarters.  
Ninety six common Soldiers from Penryn with Arms.  
Twelve more followed them.  
Forty from Penryn are gone home, and have laid down their Arms, Colonel Treoanian the Governor of Penryn (by Treaty) since.  
All the Officers and Soldiers in the Fort and Harbour. 
Maus Castle surrendered.   
The Governor of Maus Castle.  
All the Soldiers and Officers there.  
One hundred Officers and Soldiers of Colonel Champernoones Regiment, Falmouth by this means is ours on that side the Harbour.  
Two thousand Horse at least that are ours by the Treaty.  
Three or four thousand Arms.    
About the same time also we received certain information that Sir William Vaughan having united himself with Colonel De Villier, 
Sir William Vaughau well beaten by Captain Ashley.  had a resolution to make some new attempt again in Wales, but he and his Company were so well entertained by Captain Ashley, who was not above half so many in number, that the whole body of the Enemy, consisting of about 300 Horse, were encountered, routed and pursued by ours, many of the Enemy slain and taken prisoners▪ the List whereof was thus in brief, five killed upon the place, 12 mortally wounded, Captain Johnson taken Prisoner, two Captains more, two Lieutenants, one Cornet, eighteen other Prisoners, and good store of Arms. And by the same Letters we received further intelligence, that by the vigilant care of the brave and active Committee of Shrewsbury there was raised a very strong Work within less than Musket shot of Higharchall, 
The activity of the brav● Committee of Shrewsbury.  by means whereof the Enemy could not stir, either in or out, but with their apparent danger. And at the erecting of this Fort, they took their opportunity of the Governor of High-Archals absence, and before his return they had made themselves so strong that although Sir Jacob Ashley came along with him with about 1000 Horse and Foot, they were enforced to retreat and go back again, not daring to adventure on a place so gallantly manned, and made so inaccessible, both by art and nature as that was, which indeed was the winning of that strong Garrison, as you shall shortly hear in its proper place.  
About the 20 of this instant March we received certain knowledge of the taking of Shruardon Castle, 
Shruardon Castle taken.  a place of great importance, which brave service was performed by that active Patriot and courageous Commander Major General Mit●on. And much about the same time also we received a full and exact relation of the remarkable success of valiant and active Colonel Birch, before Goderich Castle, expressed by himself in his Letter to the Honourable Speaker of the House of Commons, which was as followeth:  
Honourable Sir,  
SInce my last the 7 instant finding the forces of Goodrig under command of Sir Henry Lingen, so active that a passenger could not be safe between Gloucester and Hereford, nor could I quarter Horse abroad but they were in much danger, nor could draw for●●● towards Ludlow or Worcester, but they would come near unto the City to plunder, therefore I chose rather to run the hazard of storming the House wherein they kept their out-Guard upon their Boats, and Stable being within 20 foot of their Castle Wall, than to suffer those former inconveniences which was done thus; I marched out of Hereford monday night last with 500 Horse and Foot undiscovered, until I came within Pistol shot of Goodrig, a little before day, than fell on with 100 firelocks for the Forlorn, and entered over the Wall near the end of their stable, the wall was very high, yet got over before they had a full alarm, and found in the stable about fourscore Horse and five men, which Horse I took all digging thorough the wall, and turning them out the men were slain and taken, the stable with hay and other provision burnt; In the mean time I fell on their out-Guard, in a place called the Boat-House, which was within Pistol shot of the Castle, which held out two hours until it was digged thorough, than they desired quarter for their lives, wherein was Major Pateson Commander of the Horse, and Major Benskin and 15 Gentlemen more and Troopers, whom I brought to Hereford. This success it pleased the Lord to give me with little loss, which is very advantageous, and especially enabling me to perform those commands laid upon me by the right honourable the Committee for both Kingdoms: And this day in the way as I was coming to Gloucester to that purpose, some Horse belonging to Goodrig Castle, way laid me, which were out on a party, when I took the rest monday night▪ 
Goodrig Castle taken.  there being with me Colonel Kirle, and about 12 more, but not so many ready; The Enemy stood in the way, which we perceiving, gave them a charge, their number being 14. took and slew 12. and the other two escaping through the River to the Castle.  
For the Forces under the command of Sir Jacob Ashley they are now near Worcester. I question not but a speedy course will be taken with them which shall be the constant endeavour of your most thankful Servant,  
John Birch.  
About the 23 of this instant March we received certain intelligence of the famous and most happy victory obtained by the Forces of ever to be honoured Sir William Brereton, valiant Colonel Morgan, and Colonel Birch, over the Forces of Sir Jacob Ashley, which was a very hot and furious fight, our Forces being twice worsted, 
The famous fight, and glorious victory obtained against Sir Jacob Ashley.  but at last, by God's mighty power and assistance, the victory was given to ours at least 200 being slain on the place, 3000 totally routed, and at least 2000 Arms taken. The particular description of which most famous fight and glorious victory, being delivered in a Letter to some Honourable Members of the Parliament, by a Gentleman of quality and credit, under Sir William Brereton, and by their order and authority printed and published, I have thought fit, for the Readers better content and satisfaction, here to insert, which was as followeth:  
Honourable Sir;  
ACcording to my engagements, 
A description of the fight at Stow in the Old.  I shall give you an account of the proceedings of our Forces, in reference to our great Victory at Stow, Sir William Brereton having intelligence of Sir Jacob Ashleyes' march, and being invited by valiant and active Colonel Morgan, to follow and set upon him, he forthwith marched from Litchfield with about 1000 Horse to Colshell, and from thence thorough Warwick Town toward Stratford upon Avon; where Sir William had intelligence that Colonel Morgan was returned back as far as Cambden, by reason of his intelligence of the cross and Counter-marches of Sir Jacob Ashley, 
Sir Jacob Ashleyes' cro●se and crafty marches put Sir William Brereton to tedious marches.  insomuch that Sir William Brereton was forced (out of his earnest desire to meet and join with Colonel Morgan, as was mainly intended) to march up and down, backward and forward, at least 30 miles, to overtake him, and at last did so, and then being joined, we all marched about a mile, by which time the Scouts had brought us word that the Enemy was drawn up into a body near Stow in the Old, at which all our Soldiers greatly rejoiced, being very desirous to engage. Then we marched (the whole Army) in Battalia, 
Both Armies are met.  and after we had discovered them also, standing in Battalia, we faced them an hour before we fought, both sides waiting and longing for day light. Then Sir Will. Brereton and Colonel Morgan agreed (without any difference) in the drawing up of the Army, which was ordered as follows; Sir William Brereton led the right Wing of Horse, which were those that came with him from Litchfield, and the Gloucestershire men were placed in the left Wing, Colonel Morgan himself most gallantly led the Van, 
The signal Word on both sides.  our Word was God be our Guide▪ the Enemies Word was, Patrick and George. Upon the first charge the Enemy forced our left Wing to a disorderly retreat, by over pouring them, so that the victory, at first, seemed somewhat doubtful; but Sir William Brereton most bravely going on with his right Wing of Horse, 
The fight begun.  and at least 200 Firelocks, fiercely charged their left both of Horse and Foot▪ and totally routed them. In which brave piece of service undaunted and valiant Major Hauksworth had a principal hand, and was a main help utterly torout and put to flight all the left Wing of the Enemy, 
The Enemy totally routed and pursued.  and Colonel Morgan by this time performed his charge so bravely also, and with so much courage and good success, that having rallied his men up gallantly again against the Enemy, he put them also to an absolute rout, and so they pursued them into Stow, killing and wounding many in the Town, 
The Lord Ashley taken prisoner.  both Gentlemen and Officers of quality, and in this pursuit Major Hawksworth his man (as I was credibly informed) took the Lord Ashly prisoner, and all his foot Officers were then also taken prisoners; 
Sir Charles Lucas also taken prisoner.  and Sir Charles Lucas (as was credibly reported) was then also taken in the fight, but immediately after rescued by a party of Firelocks of the Enemy, and on his rescue fled into the Wood hard by for hoped safety; but after the fight our forces searching the wood for stragglers found there the said Sir Charles Lucas, even he who formerly had done the King great service in the North, and was Governor of Berkley Castle, but now, I say, was taken prisoner again and put into safe custody.  
This most remarkable piece of service being thus successfully performed, 
Sir Jacob Ashleyes' words to our Soldiers sitting on a Drum.  and Sir Jacob Ashley being taken Captive and wearied in this fight, and being ancient (for, old-ages silver hairs had quite covered over his head and beard) the Soldiers brought him a drum to sit and rest himself upon, who being sat, he said (as was most credibly informed) unto our Soldiers; Gentlemen, ye may now sit down and play, for you have done all your work, if you ●all not our among yourselves. Meaning, indeed, that, now he being thus beaten, the King had never another army in the field in the whole kingdom.  
There were taken in this famous fight and glorious Victory, 
A List of the prisoners and prizes taken in the battle at Stow in the Old.  Sir Jacob Ashley, alias, Lord Ashley, the General; Sir Charles Lucas, Col. Corbet, Col. Gerrard, Col. Mouldsworth, Leiutenant-colonell Broughton; 3. Majors, 17. Captains, 16. Leiutenants their Marshal General, 5. Cornets, 11. Ensigns, 3. Quartermasters, the Chirurgeon, and Sir William Vaughan's Chaplain, 2000, arms at least, and all their Ammunition, Bag and Baggage. A brave, famous and most seasonable victory it was indeed, and a most hopeful way and means of a speedy end (by God's mercy) of all the intestine wars and bloody broils in the Kingdom; to God alone be all the honour and glory thereof.  
About the 26. of this instant March we received advertisement of the full disbanding of all Sir Ralph Hoptons' forces in the West and divers other occurrents of our Army there, by Letters received from Truro to the honourable speaker of the House of Commons; One of which Letters for the Readers better content and satisfaction, I have here inserted Verbatim, as it was printed and published, which was as followeth.  

SIR,  
IN my last I gave you an account of the beginning to disband the Lord Hoptons' Army, I can now satisfy you of the conclusion of that great work, this day having put a period thereunto, except two troops of the Prince's Regiment, under the Command of Sir Francis Mackworth, which by reason of the darkness of the night could not be conveniently dispatched, and so put off till to morrow at seven of the clock, 
All the enemy to depart from Truro.  by nine it will be done; and presently after, Proclamation is to be made for the Enemy, or any belonging unto them, immediately to depart from Truro, and all those Ports, to be with the convoy to morrow night, or else to be taken as Spies, and proceeded against accordingly. I have been present at the disbanding of these Forces, from the first to the last [except as aforesaid] and never did see a thing done with so much civility on both sides, 
The extraordinary fair carriage of the Soldiers.  and not the least appearance of insulting of ours, as if we had never been at variance each with other, not a reproachful word used nor the value of two pence taken from any man by the Soldiers of this Army, though the country people are apt enough, (if they have opportunity and the enemy's Soldiers straggle) to revenge former injuries, but the convoy (so long as the Soldiers keep with them) suffer not the least prejudice to befall them, the number of Brigades in all that have been disbanded are nine, viz. the French Brigade consisting of three Regiments; 
The 9 Brigades that were disbanded.  the Lord Wentworths Brigade consisting of three Regiments; Sir James smith's Brigade consisting of three Regiments; the Lord cleveland's Brigade consisting of four Regiments; Major General Webs of three Regiments, the Lord Hoptons' Brigade commanded by Colonel Rovil; the Lord goring Brigade of five Regiments; the Prince's Lifeguard consisting of nine troops, and 700. men armed; Sir Richard greenvil's Reformadoes, the men that are dismounted are proper and lusty men: 
Our Army to march Eastward.  Orders are given out for the Army to face about, and march Eastward, part of it moves to morrow, the residue on Saturday, except two or three Regiments that are to stay behind for the blocking up of Pendennis and the mount; the Castle of Pendennis was summoned yesterday, but those within gave a peremptory answer of refusal; and Master Arundel bears the name of Governor, but Sir John Digby, sir Henry Kilegrew, Colonel Slaughter, Colonel Sir Abraham Chipman, and some others of desperate Fortunes overrule the Gentleman, and make him govern and command to serve their own ends, though it be to ruin himself. On Wednesday the General sent this Bearer in haste with a Letter to Saint Maws, who embarked himself there and went three or four Leagues to Sea, to the Parliament ships and acquainted them with a Frigate of Dunkirk that lay in the Harbour at Falmouth and much annoyed our men at Penny-com-quick, 
A Dunkirk Frigate taken by our ships.  a place of good shelter for our men that lie against the Castle. So this morning between one and two of the clock, a Frigate of ours put into the Harbour, being Moonlight, had the honour to be saluted with twenty pieces of Cannon from the Castle, but got in without any prejudice, and hauled the Dunkirk, who instead of yielding gave two broad sides, but our Vessel presently made up, and after a little dispute Boarded Her, put the Irish to the sword, preserved the rest, and have them Prisoners a broad. It is a fine Vessel belonging to Brown Bushel, commanded by Captain Lewis and will be of singular use to clear the Harbour, if any Vessel of the Kings happen to come in, having the benefit of Saint Maws on the one side, and at the mouth of the Harbour, 
Hilford Castle taken.  the assistance of Hilford Fort, which was this day surrendered to us, wherein were twenty and six pieces of Ordnance; so their strong Castle of Pendennis is of little use at Sea, and by Land of no great prejudice, considering the narrow neck of Land it stands upon, and the Line that may be drawn from Sea to Sea, and may be defended with as many men as are in the Castle.  
Leiutenant Colonel Jngoldsby going to view the Castle, 
Lieutenant Colonel Ingoldsby slain by Musket shot.  received a shot from some Musketeers of the Enemies that were behind the Mud-wals▪ of which he died within three hours, being a valiant and stout man, Major Cobbet also was shot in the Arm, but not dangorously.  
This is all the account time would give me leave to present you with concerning the Army, of these parts, which I thought fit to send this Bearer purposely withal, that you may be certainly informed of our condition, adding this, that about an hundred with their Arms came this day▪ from the Mount to Truro, the head quarters, many took up Arms with us, the rest went to their homes.  
I am Sir your Servant, J. R. Truro, March 19 1645.   

The Messenger staying till this morning, I can now satisfy you, that the two Troops that remained of the last night, are this morning disbanded: I have no other news to write, but to morrow the General's Army marches towards Exeter.  
Truro, March 20 1645. at 4 in the afternoon.   
And March 27 the House of Parliament in way of bounden gratitude to almighty God, for this great mercy of the thus reducing of well-nigh all Cornwall to their obedience, and that also of subduing and overthrowing of Sir Jacob Ashleyes' Army, and thereby obtaining a most happy and hopeful end of our troubles, 
A day of solemn Thanksgiving for the forementioned great mercies to the King.  they having first invited the Lord Mayor, aldermans, and Common-council of the most famous City of London, to hear two Sermons that were to be preached before them at Christ's Church in London: In answer thereof, the Lord Major, Aldermen, and Common-council aforesaid, invited both Houses of Parliament to a Dinner on the same day of Thanksgiving: At which invitation Alderman Foukes delivered himself, as from the whole City, to the House, making a Speech unto them; and Master Speaker answered the same by command of the House in a congratulatory way, much affection and amity being expressed mutually on both sides.  
About the 28 instant we also received certain information by Letters out of the West, 
Our noble Generals advance to Exeter.  of our most noble Generals advance toward the City of Exeter, and concerning the taking of Pouldram-Fort near Exeter, and of Inch-House also by Colonel Welden, the Governor of Plymouth, the particulars whereof were in substance as followeth;  
That about March 21. 1645. the said Colonel Welden having summoned Inch-House, where the Enemy kept a strong Garrison; they returned a scornful Answer: Whereupon the Colonel sent 60 Muketeers to keep them from coming out, and appointed 60 more to follow with a Demyculverin: 
Inch-House surrendered.  But upon the landing of the first, they within begged Quarter for their lives, and so surrendered all unto the Colonel. There was taken in that Garrison 90 Muskets, 4 Minions, and 6 Barrels of Powder. And by the same Letter we were likewise certified of the surrender of Pouldram strong Fort, 
Pouldram Fort taken.  with 18 Pieces of Ordnance in it, and much Ammunition, with other Provisions good store▪ which was thus yielded up to valiant Sir Hardiesse Waller, those in the Garrison having had (in both of them) fair Conditions to depart to their own homes, upon engagement not to take up Arms any more against the Parliament.  
And about the 30 of this instant March we received intelligence by Letters from that brave and active Committee of Shrewsbury, 
Higharchall surrendered to the Parliament.  of their great and good success in the taking of that very strong and considerable Garrison of Higharchall, after a short siege; and having by Granades and other great shot battered them for the space of nine hours together, without intermission, it being, I say, a place of great strength, and well fortified, and having a large deep moat about it, and in regard of the situation of it, not thought feasible to be carried by storm; but by the blessing of God and our continual plying of our great shot and Granades, which had done great execution among them, in short space we caused them to come to a Parley, whereat it was concluded, that the Horse, all but 40 should march away without Arms, that the Foot should all leave their Arms behind them, and that they should leave all their Ammunition and Provision, (of which there was great plenty) behind them, and they were to have a Convoy to Worcester, the place they had made choice of to go unto. There marched out 212 Soldiers and Officers, out of this Garrison. And thus Shropshire, by God's great mercy, and the indefatigable industry, care and valour, of their Committee is now well cleared from all their open Enemies.  
And much about the foresaid time we were certainly informed that this most gallant and active Committee of Shrewsbury, 
Bridge-North Town taken by Shrewsbury forces.  not yet resting immediately after they had thus taken in High Archall, as aforesaid, sent out a party of Horse and Foot upon a design against Bridge-North, but the length of the march, and the weariness of the Soldier hindered them, so as the Town took the alarm before they could refresh themselves a little, and go on in the design, as was intended; yet notwithstanding the next day they summoned it. 
Colonel Billingsley slain in the Storm.  Colonel Billingsley, who commanded in chief in the Town, would give no Answer to the Summons, and Colonel Howard, who commanded the Castle, gave a flat denial; whereupon in the afternoon, having set out three Posts, the brave Salopians resolved to storm: One Post was assigned to Colonel Golden, another to Major Brain, and the third to Captain Hickson, who, at the warning given, fell all three on with such a courage, and undaunted resolution, that they stormed the Town, killed Colonel Billingsley in the heat of the storm, together with some others, and took divers prisoners, the rest of the Gentry fled into the Castle, the North Gate Fort also stood some hot dispute, but was likewise gained, and so the Town taken wholly into their possession; and in its proper place we shall certify the taking in of the Castle also, which yet a while stood out very obstinately against them.  

Portland castle surrendered.  And much about the foresaid time we heard for certain out of the West, that Portland Castle was surrendered; the Enemy within it having had liberty granted them to go to their own homes, leaving all their Arms, and the Castle's Ammunition behind them.  
And upon the 31 of this instant March we were certainly informed by a Letter out of the West, of the taking of Exmouth Fort, the particulars whereof were as followeth in this ensuing Letter to Colonel Ceeley.  
Noble Colonel;  

Exmouth-Fort, near Exeter. taken.  I Beseech you to excuse my not giving you an account of the business of Exmouth Fort till now, which hath been occasioned by reason of the sudden commands of Sir Hardresse Waller, laid upon me, to advance near the City of Exeter. And although I know you are well acquainted with our proceedings, yet I conceive it my duty to advertise you of our condition. The 14 instant, I summoned the Fort, and took possession of it the next day: I have sent you enclosed what provision was left in it. The Governor thereof, Lieutenant Colonel Arundel desires to serve you for Ireland. Sir, we are now within Musket shot of Mount-Hadford, and exchanging shot every minute, and God hath pleased to honour yours with the Frontier Quarters. As yet nothing hath happened that will not speak us  
Colonel Ceeleys.  
The forementioned note of what was left in Exmouth Fort, was 13 great iron Pieces, 2 small Drakes, 1 of brass, 3 Murderers, unmounted, 72 Muskets, 29 Collars of Bandaleers, 10 Pikes, 10 Halberds and Partisans, 12 Barrels of Powder, 2 bundles of Match, 1 barrel of Pease, 5 Hogsheads of Bread, 1 Hogshead of Beef, 5 Hogsheads of Salt, 1 Butt of Beer, etc.  

April. 1646.  About the beginning of the Month of April, 1646. we received certain and most welcome intelligence of the surrender of Dennington Castle, 
Dennington Castle taken.  about which valiant Colonel Dalbeir having continued playing with his Granades into the Castle, with much fury, it at last procured this good success, That Sir John Boys the Governor thereof, finding no hope of help or relief, and perceiving what great danger the Castle was in; at last he agreed to surrender it up to the said noble Colonel, for the use of the King and Parliament. And so the Enemy immediately came forth of the Castle, having liberty (according to their Articles) to depart to Oxford, and our Forces took present possession of it. And thus this pernicious nest and den of Royal Robbers and abusers of those parts of the Country, was now at last happily emptied and cleared, and the Castle restored to its right owner again, that most worthy and truly religious Gentleman, Master John Packer, whose formerly it had been.  
And April 2. the Lords and Commons in Parliament Assembled, prudently taking notice of the great confluence and resort of Papists, Malignant Officers and Soldiers of fortune, and such as have borne Arms against the Parliament of England, from the Enemy's Garrisons and Quarters unto the Cities of London and Westminster, and other parts within the Lines of Communication: Do for the prevention of such inconveniences as may thereby arise, think fit to order, and it is hereby ordered by the said Lords and Commons, That all Papists whatsoever, and all Officers and Soldiers of fortune, and other persons that have borne Arms against the Parliament of England, not being under restraint, do before the sixth day of April, 1646. depart out of the Cities of London and Westminster, and Lines of Communication: And if any such person shall continue within the said Lines after that time, such person is hereby declared a Spy, and shall be apprehended, imprisoned, and proceeded against as a Spy, according to the Rules of War. And the said Lords and Commons do further orden, That all such persons do forbear, upon the penalty aforesaid, to come within the said Lines, without Licence under the hands of the Committee appointed for Compositions at Goldsmiths-Hall. And the Committee of the Militia of London, and the Sub-Committees in their several limits respectively, are hereby required to keep strict Guards and Watches, and cause frequently searches to be made, and to take care for the due execution of this Order. Provided that this Order, nor any thing therein contained shall extend to any person or persons who shall obtain licence under the hands of the Committee of Goldsmiths-Hall, to continue within the limits aforesaid. 
An Order of both Houses of Parliament for restraint of Papists and other Delinquents from coming to the Cities of London and Westminster. An Order also concerning the King's private coming to London.  Provided that this Ordinance, or any thing therein contained, shall not extend to any person or persons who came in to the Parliament before the first of June last 1645. and are cleared by both Houses of Parliament from their Delinquency. Provided also that no Peer of this Realm shall resort unto the Committee for licence to continue within the limits aforesaid, but shall repair only to the House of Peers for their said Licence. This Order to continue for one Month after the sixth of April, and no longer.  
And it was also further ordered and resolved on by the Lords and Commons in Parliament, That in case the King should (contrary to the advice of the Parliament, then, already given unto him) come, or attempt to come within the Lines of Communication, That then the Committee of the Militia of London shall have power, and are hereby enjoined, upon advice had with the Committee of Lords and Commons for the Army, to raise such forces as they shall think necessary, to prevent any tumults that may arise by his coming, and to suppress any that shall happen, and to apprehend and secure all such as shall come with him, and to prevent resort unto him, and to secure his own Person from danger.  
About the sixth of April we received certain good news by a Letter written to renowned Major General Brown, 
A brave defeat given to the King's Horse near Farringdon.  of a brave defeat given to the King's Horse about Farringdon, not far from Oxford, which Letter was read in the Honourable House of Commons, and a Copy whereof, for the Readers better content and satisfaction therein, I have here inserted, as it was printed and published, which was as followeth:  
Honourable Sir;  
THe last night I had intelligence the Enemy was drawn out of Oxford, and gave out, that they did intend to plunder Newnham, wherefore I sent to Colonel Betsworth, to desire him to draw his Horse towards Abingdon, which he did; but early this morning we had intelligence, that six hundred Horse marched out of Oxon through Conmer and Fisield; whereupon I commanded forth our Horse and Dragoons, and marched with Colonel Betsworth after the Enemy, and it pleased God to direct us, that we found them at Farringdon, and quartered at the Towns thereabouts; We had gallant hunting them from place to place over the hills, and pursued them into Farringdon Town, and afterwards we discovered a good party of about two hundred, between the two Coxwels, who ran down into a Meadow, and would have parlyed to surrender their Horse and Arms, but our ●●n fell on them, and took them all, save very few that escaped: Afterwards we gleaned up divers more in several places, so that I am confident, that party is so broken, that the King will scarce be able to get such a body of Horse again in the Kingdom; We took above 300 Horse, and almost as many Prisoners, there was brought in this evening about 250 unto Abingdon, the Major and most of the Officers of Sir William Comptons' Regiment belonging to Banbury are prisoners, it was esteemed the best Regiment the King had, and the news of their engagement being reported at Oxford this day, that they would come off with honour, or be lost, they sadly replied, if that Regiment were lost, they were all undone.  
There was but one man slain on our part, and not many of the Enemies.  
Sir, your most humble and faithful servant, Geo. pain. Abington, April 3. 1646.  
About the 10 of this instant April, Letters came from his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Quarters, from several Gentlemen of credit to the Committee of both Kingdoms, and by other informations from thence, that the Articles for the surrender of the City and Garrison of Exeter, were now fully agreed on, and four Hostages given for performance of the same, to be surrendered into the hands of the Parliament, on Monday April 13. 1646. and as a farther firm pledge and assurance hereof, they immediately, upon the mutual giving of Hostages, surrendered three of their strong Forts into the renowned General's hands, viz. Saint Downes Fort, on the North side; Mount-Rat-Ford, on the South side, and a very strong House in Saint Tho. P●rish, on the West side; 
Treaty about the surrender of the City of Exeter to the Parliament. Three strong Forts already delivered up to the General.  all these were surrendered on▪ Thursday, April the 9 the main substance of the Articles was, That all within the Garrison (that would) were to march away on April 13. being Monday, both Horse and Foot, with Arms, and to have a Convoy either to Pendennis, or Saint▪ Michaels-Mount, or to Oxford, and to nominate which of these three places they would go unto when they marched out. And those that would, to have Passes to go beyond Sea, or laying down their Arms, to go to their own homes, upon an engagement not to take up Arms again against the Parliament. All the nobility, (as some of these were there) Gentry and Clergy, in the City, to have liberty to march out with the Garrison Soldiers, with their Horses, Arms, and their own proper goods: 
Justification of the large Articles of conditions agreed unto, upon the surrender of Exeter.  One Article was mainly insisted on, concerning the Cathedral in Exeter, that, forsooth, it might not be defaced, which was also so far agreed on. Now, if any should imagine these (and the other) conditions to be too large for such enemies; Let them but weigh the considerableness of the place, and how long it might have held out, withal its advantages, and it may easily balance all the rest; Besides that, now it is gained with the loss of so little bloodshed, and in so short a time, since the Army returned out of Cornwall; That now also upon the matter, all the West is cleared and settled in a peaceable posture; and how considerable this is, that now the army may immediately advance and take the opportunity to clear up these Eastern-parts, which in all probability, will (by God's blessing) be effected suddenly, and (we hope) an end put to these miserable and most unhappy wars, The noble General, presently upon this, with part of his Army, advanced now to Barnstable, which place, was of no small Concernment for the full settling, of the p●ace of those parts, whereof more in its due place.  

Ruthin-Castle surrendered to the Parliament.  About the 14. of this instant April we received certain intelligence by a Letter from that most faithful, valiant and Victorious Commander, Colonel Mitton to the honourable Speaker of the House of Commons, concerning the surrender of Ruthin castle to him, for the use of the King and Parliament; A Copy of which Letter, for the Readers better content and fuller satisfaction, I have here thought fit to insert, as it was printed and published by authority of Parliament, which was as followeth:  
To the Honourable William Lenthal Esq Speaker of the Honourable House of COMMONS.  
SIR,  
THe Reducing of this Castle of Ruthin hath cost me more time and Ammunition, than I expected when I first laid Siege to it: At last having a Mine almost in a readiness to spring, and Batteries prepared for a Demi-canon and a Culverin to play upon it; It was this day agreed to be Surrendered upon the Conditions in the enclosed Articles, which I was willing to accept, having perfect Information by some that escaped out of the Castle, that there was in it Provision upon sufficient for two months longer; which now I find to be true: And if I should have forced it, I must have hazarded many men, and made the place unserviceable, which is of very great use to the Re●●ement of this Country, it being the most convenient place for a Garrison in all North-Wales, as things now stand with us. Yesterday bef●●e the break of day, a party of the Enemy out of Denbigh Castle, being about sixscore, and thirty mounted Firelocks, fell upon Captain Richard Price his Quarters, within two miles of this Town; but be was vigilant, and his scouts performed their duty so well, that they were drawn into the field before they came upon them, which gave him opportunity to avoid them, 
A brave defeat given to Denbigh forces by Colonel Mitton.  and convey the Alarm to this Town; And thereupon Colonel Carter with a standing Horse-guard, which we are sane to keep in the field constantly to secure our Out quarters; and Captain Simkies with my own Troop, which was then upon the Guard in this Town, drew out and fell between them and Denbigh, and within half a mile of their Garrison met with them, and charged them ●o gallantly, that they broke in upon them, killed seven of them (as is said) upon the place; and in the pursuit, took four Captains, one Lieutenant, two Cornets, divers Troopers, and about forty Horse, with the loss of one man of our side. The Siege at Hoult hath of late been if great difficulty and hazard to those fe● men I have there: For the drawing off of the Cheshire Firelocks from that Service, without any privity, gave the Enemy an advantage to burn the Guard the Firelocks kept (which cost the Country much to fortify) and above forty dwelling Houses more in the Town, and exposed my men (who lay in open Qnarters, and were fewer in number than the Enemy within were) to their power, which necessitated my men to be upon continual duty. Upon the first of April the Enemy sallied out and fell upon Major Saddler's Quarters, resolving to put all my men in that House to the Sword, which they had been like to effect, had not a Guard which was placed in the Mo●●it, 
Captain Cottingham slain.  erected by us three days before relieved them: In this storm I lost six men, and fourteen wounded; if the Enemy there were killed their Commander Captain Cottingham a Papist, a Lieutenant, and two more, and many wounded: There hath been never a day▪ since, but they sallied out constantly twice or thrice a day, and as constantly beaten i●. This service, and the furnishing of such Garrisons which are reduced, occasions the expense of very much Powder and Match; and therefore, I humbly desire, that the Honourable House will be please to grant, that I may have a hundred Barrels of Powder, and four or five hundred Firelocks sent me, and that some course may be perscribed to convey it down speedily; the carriage and Convoy of the last Powder I had, cost above half as much as the Powder was worth. And further, that they, will be pleased to appoint a Governor for this Castle, Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Mason, is a very faithful active and godly Gentleman, and the most knowing man in his profession that we have in these parts, having been a Soldier, above twenty years, and lost his command in Ireland, because he refused to bear Arms against the Parliament and if this place were worthy of him, I should make bold to recommend him to their consideration. This nevertheless, I leave to their Wisdoms to determine, and rest.  
Your very humble Servant, THO. MITTON Ruthin the 8. of April. 1646.  
In that brave defeat given by Colonel Mittens forces, 
Prisoners and prizes taken at Denbigh and Ruthin.  to their Denbigh Enemies, were taken these prisoners and prizes following. Taken prisoners, Captain Winne, Captain Hugh Morris, Captain Morgan, Captain Pickering, 1 Lieutenant, 2 Cornets, divers Gentlemen and Common-Souldiers, 40. Horse, divers Arms, 7. slain upon the place. In Ruthin we took all their Arms and Ammunition, Bag and Baggage, and all the Irish therein were left to be disposed of by us according to the Ordinance of Parliament. Also valiant and faithful Sir Trenor Williams (as we were credibly informed by letters out of Wales) did bravely set upon 100 of the Enemies near Ragland, 
The Raglanders sound beaten by Sir Trevor Williams.  which belonged to the crooked now made Lord Charles Somerset, Governor of Ragland-castle, where, I say, valiant Sir Trevor routed all the said party, took 45. prisoners, whereof one Captain and 10. other Officers and Gentlemen, 30. Horse, 20. Muskets, 12. Firelocks, 14. slain on the place, divers sorely wounded the rest f●ed and dispersed. And 2. days after this fight there came in unto Sir Trevor Williams (as we were certainly informed by letters from thence) from Ragland-castle, 
Many Gentlemen of Wales came out of Ragland castle to Sir Trevor and submitted to the Parliament.  2. Colonels, 2. Lieutenant Colonels, 3. Lieutenants, 3. Cornets, and 11. other Horsemen with them, all Gentlemen of the upper-Countries, desiring to submit themselves to the Parliament, upon the Reading of which Letters aforesaid from Colonel Mitton, the House ordered (according to his desire) that Lieutenant Colonel Mason should be Governor of Ruthin-castle; And Master Fog the Minister (a very faithful and active Gentleman for the Parliament ever since these wars began) who brought the Letter, 
Master Fog a Minister rewarded for his Loyalty to the Parliament.  was called into the House of Commons, and had 50. l. given him for his pains in bringing the same, and for his other brave services in the field.  

The strong Garrison of the City of Exeter surrendered to the Parliament. The first letter.  About the 16. of this instant April we received full assurance of the clear and total surrender of the strong Garrison of the City of Exeter by Letters out of the West a Copy of two whereof I have here thought fit for the Readers better content and satisfaction to insert, which were as followeth:  
Sir, Having been employed in the agitating of the treaty for the surrendering of Exeter, I might crave pardon if I give you not so full an account of our proceedings here as I desire. We had to do with Lawyers and Civilians who lengthened out our debate by their niceties, so that the treaty ended not till the day of the writing hereof, when they finished the Articles, and agreed to march forth on Monday, next. The conditions were honourable, viz. in brief; To march with Arms, Colours flying, Drums beating and Bullets, to Oxford, and the Cornish into Cornwall. I will not trouble you with particulars, but send you the Articles by the next; Hostages were delivered for the performance of things promised, and for farther assurance unto us, 3. strong Forts were delivered up unto us in hand, as hath been touched before. The Townsmen were very glad of the agreement. The General is this night come to Tiverton and intends, to morrow to be before Barnstable and to summon it. The treaty was absolutely concluded yesterday in Exeter; we sat up night and day about it. I will not trouble you any more till afurther opportunity, but remain  
Sir, Your most humble servant, April 9 late at night. Columb-John House.  
Postscript. At Market-jew, near the Mount we took lately of the Mountmen, 60 prisoners, the most of that Garrison. Also a Captain in Pendennis came-off unto us with 80. men more. We understand that in Pendennis they have nothing but Salt-beefe tainted, and and that they cannot subsist long; They have but little bread, and their Wine almost spent, 
The second Letter.  we hope well shortly of both places.  
The other Letter was this.  
Sir;  
Though I have but little News, yet I could not omit this opportunity of sending to you; 
The manner of their marching out of the City of Exeter.  we entered the City of Exeter on Monday last, according to the Articles. Sir Jacob Berckley the Governor, with about 2000, being marched forth, 700, whereof being Cornish, as soon as they were out of the City gates faced Westward and resolving for their own homes, cried out thus, Every man to his own home, Every man to his own home, and so laying down their arms departed accordingly, the like resolution had most of the rest, so that Sir Jacob was like to have but a small remnant to do his Majesty any service at Oxford; The Prince's Highness went forth with them, leaving behind them in the City, at least 3. Month's provision, 150. barrels of powder, about 1500. Muskets, and above 40. pieces of Ordnance.  
About the 18. of this instant April came certain intelligence out of the West by letters to London of the surrendering of the Town and Castle of Barnstable into the Parliaments hands, 
Branstable Town and Castle surrendered.  with all the Arms and Ammunition therein (much upon the same terms and Articles which were granted to Exeter) by Sir Allen Apsley, Governor thereof. And shortly after also we understood of the surrendering of Saint Michaels-Mount in Cornwall, 
Sir Michaels-Mount surrendered.  that impregnable and almost inaccessible strong fort, whereof Sir Arthur Basset was Governor; who, with the rest, that would, and were therein, had liberty to depart into the Island of Silly. In this Mount were taken an 100 barrels of Powder, 500 Muskets, 100 Pikes, 30. Pieces of Ordinances, 3. Murdering Pieces, 80. Tun of Wine, with store of other provisions.  
And about the 20. 
Titbury-Castle surrendered.  instant we had certain News of the surrender of Titbury-castle, a place of much Consequence and strength also, and which will contribute much to the reducing of Litchfield-close; which said Castle was surrendered also on fair conditions to the content of the Garrison-Souldiers thereof. And much about the same time we were most certainly informed of the surrender of Aburisthwait to Colonel powel (Commander 
Aburisthwait Castle in Wales surrendered.  in Chief under renowned Major General Laughorne) by Colonel Whitney, Governor thereof; upon very fair terms and conditions, as was witnessed by valiant and victorious Major General Laughornes own Letter to the Parliament. And we had farther information of the surrender of Dunstar-castle in the West, 
Dunstar-Castle surrendered.  which was yielded up to renowned Colonel Blake, the brave Governor of Taunton, upon very fair and honourable terms; by noble Sir Thomas Fairfaxes example of Clemency and Mercy; 
Our WesternArmie advanced toward Oxford.  Which Castle, was surrendered up for the use of King and Parliament, by Sir Francis Windham, than Governor of Dunstar-Castle; as was also certified to the Parliament by Colonel Blakes own Letter.  
About the 24. of this instant April our Western army was advanced backward and come toward Oxford for the beleaguring thereof and forming of a Siege round about it; And about this time a part of our said Army having already besieged the Garrison of Woodstock, 
Woodstock-Garrison surrendered.  and lain now before it some short time battering that brave and ancient Manor house with our Ordnance, and the besieged considering there was no hope of relief to be expected, our other forces lying also so close about Oxford that they durst not stir out; It was now therefore, at length surrendered to Colonel Rainsborough upon very fair terms and honourable Articles of agreement from the said Valiant Colonel and those other Courageous Commanders who jointly adventured their lives for the Service of the State: For, the besieged were to depart thence to Oxford, and to leave all their Ammunition and furniture of war behind them, and only the Officers permitted to have their Swords along with them.  
And about the 28. instant we received the certain intelligence of the surrender of Bridge-North-castle into the hands of the 
Bridge North Castle surrendered.  brave and most active Shropshire forces upon fair conditions and articles of accord, the Common Soldiers therein to march away with their hands in their Pockets, and the Officers only with their Swords, Sir Robert Howard the Governor and 3. other Knights with their Horse and 2. Servants a piece; But, one Latham an arch Villain for malignancy, and who had been the main cause of burning the Town, not long before, was justly delivered up to the justice of the Parliament to suffer most worthily for such a most base and abominable scelerous fact. They left behind them in the Castle, at least 6. week's provision a Demi-cannon, with other Ordnance, at least 500 Arms and 50. Horse, The place was a piece of great strength; there were within the Castle about 400. 
The just praise of the most faithful and active Committee of Shrewsbury.  fight men, the besiegers not above 700. in all. Thus have we often heard of the brave services of those gallant Salopaons' and even incomparable actions of that active and successful Committee of Shrewsbury for the good of their Country and kingdom; To God be all the glory and praise who thus, still, Crowns us with victories, and thereby thus encompasses us with songs of deliverance.  
And much about the foresaid time we were certainly given to understand by Letters to the Parliament from Colonel Rainsborough that the Duke of Richmond; 
The Duke of Lenox and others come in unto the Parliament.  the Earl of Lindsey, the King's Cupbearer; Sir William Fleetwood, the King's Standard-bearer, and Knight Marshal, Sir Edward Sydenham, and Master Carew of the Bedchamber were come in unto him, casting themselves upon the mercy of the Parliament; whereupon the House presently ordered that they all should be committed prisoners to Warwick-Castle.  
And upon the 29. of this instant April, being the solemn Fastday of this Month, after both the Sermons before the Lords in the Abbey at Westminster, and the Commons Sermons in Margrets-Church, were ended; The House of Commons sitting a while in Parliament, received certain intelligence of the Kings escaping out of Oxford, 
The King escaped out of Oxford, in a disguised manner.  in a disguised manner between Sunday-night and Munday-morning, with 2. others in his Company, whereof Master A●bhurnh●un was one, who was pretended to be the King's Master, and the King and the other party, must be ashburnham's Servants; and the King himself (as it was credibly and Constantly related) must go along under the name of Harry, Master ashburnham's man; and thus I say, these 3. went forth of Oxford together, the King also carrying a cloak-bag or portmantle behind him on his horse, like a Servingman indeed, but whether or which way he went was not then known; for (as it was reported) the better to conceal the way of his departure▪ there went out 3. at every part of the City, at the same instant time, that so, none should be able to discover in which of the Companies the King was. It seemed (as, since, we heard) his Lords in Oxford were desirous of his departure, hoping thereby, to have the better conditions for themselves, looking more, it seemed, at their own safety than at the King's preservation, who hereby may plainly see, whose interests they have all this while driven on. Ah, good Reader, see here, and seriously consider in thy soul, with fear and trembling and amazement, how truly, how justly, God most wise, most righteous, hath made good that word of his. 
1▪ Sam. 2. 30.  Those that honour me I will honour, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed. O, that we would faithfully and fruitfully lay these remarkable examples thereof to our hearts, and walk answerably for the time to come.  
Now upon the 4 of May 1646. 
May. 1646.  so soon as ever our most noble General had received certain intelligence of his Majesty's departure ou● of Oxford, as abovesaid, he immediately, by his Letters and Messengers, informed the Parliament thereof, giving them farther to understand the great confidence (though mightily mistaken, as a●on you shall plainly understand) of those that came out of Oxford to his Excellency, 
The Parliament informed of the King's departure out of Oxford toward London.  and their constant affirmations (as those that saw but the shallow superficies of the business only) that the King was certainly come into or near unto London, upon which information the Commons in Parliament had much debate and the House of Peers also the like, and considering the danger that might ensue by concealing and hiding the King's person, they appointed a Committee forthwith to prepare and draw up something to be published touching all such as should harbour or conceal the harbouring of the King; and accordingly an Order was drawn up by this Committee, reported to the House, and assented unto by the House of Peers, and likewise passed by them, and ●y Order of both Houses to be published throughout London and Westminster, by beat of Drum or sound of Trumpet, which was accordingly performed, the said Order being to this effect:  
ORdered, 
Both Houses of Parliaments Order published throughout London and Westminster, touching concealing the King.  that it be declared, and it is hereby declared by the Lords and Commons in Parliament assembled, That what person soever shall harbour or conceal, or know of the harbouring or concealing of the King's person, and shall not reveal it immediately to the Speakers of both Houses, shall be proceeded against as a Traitor to the Common Wealth, forfeit his whole Estate, and die without mercy.  
The Parliament also about this foresaid time seriously considering that a former Ordinance for putting out of the Lines of Communication, 
The Parliaments providence for the welfare of the City of London.  all Papists, Officers and Soldiers of fortune, that have come out of the King's Quarters, was now expired, and the danger that might happen by permitting such to abide within the City of London, no whit slacking, but rather increasing: An Ordinance was therefore read the first and second time, and committed to a Committee for the continuance of the said former Ordinance for a Month longer, and that all such Papists and Soldiers should remove themselves ●wenty miles distant from the City. An Ordinance was likewise read and assented to, giving power to the Militia of London, to search within twenty miles of London, for all Papists, Malignants, and other suspected persons, and to secure and disarm them, and likewise to search for Arms, and this power to continue for twenty days longer.  
And now upon the sixth of this instant May, the much expected news of the King's discovery and place of abode, was by a most excellent Letter (sent to the Commissioners of both Kingdoms, and so to the Parliament) brought to London, which Letter, for the eminency and excellency thereof, and for the just honour of our ever most worthily deserving loyal and loving Brethren of Scotland, I have here thought fit in the first place to set forth and show to the honest and godly Reader, for his just joy, comfort and content, which was as followeth:  
The Letter from the Commissioners of the Parliament of Scotland, to the Commissioners of both Houses, concerning his Majesty's coming to the Scottish Army. Dated at Southwell, May the 5.  
Right Honourable,  
THe discharging of ourselves of the duty we owe to the Kingdom of England, 
A Copy of the ●etter from the Commissioners of the Parliament of Scotland, to the Commissioners of both Houses, concerning His Majesty's coming to the Scotch Army.  to you as Commissioners from the same, moves us to acquaint you with the Kings coming into our Army this morning; which having overtaken us unexpectedly, hath filled us with amazement, and made us like men that dream. We cannot think that He could have been so unadvised in his Resolutions, is to have cast himself upon us, without a real intention to give full satisfaction to both Kingdoms, in all their just and reasonable Demands, in all those things that concern Religion and Righteousness; whatsoever be His disposition or resolution, you may be assured, That we shall never entertain any thought, nor correspond with any purpose, nor countenance me any endeavours that may in any circumstance encroach upon our League and Covenant, or weaken the union or confidence between the Nations: That Union, unto our Kingdom was the matter of many prayers; and as nothing was more joyful to us than to have it set on foot, so hitherto have we thought nothing too dear to maintain it; and we trust to walk with such faithfulness and truth in this particular, that as we have the testimony of a good conscience within ourselves, so you and all the world shall see, that we mind your interest with as much integrity and care as our own, being confident you will entertain no other thoughts of us.  
Signed by the Warrant and Command of the Commissioners of the Parliament of Scotland. LOTHIAN. Southwel, May 5. 1646.  
For the Right Honourable the Commissioners of the Parliament of England.  
In the next place I shall give the Reader a summary narrative 
The manner of the Kings coming into the Scots Army, and discovering himself unto them.  of the manner of the discovery of His Majesty to most noble and renowned General Lesley Earl of Leven, as it was related to the Commissioners of Scotland by the Secretary of the Scots Army, and printed and published by authority, which was as followeth:  
A Messenger being come from the foresaid noble General of the Scots Army, being one of the Secretaries there, came to the Scots Commissioners at Westminster, and thus related the ●ings coming in unto them: The first time that we could hear where his Majesty was after he came out of Oxford, was on Saturday the second of May instant, and then he was within some two miles of London, as is told the Army, and on Monday night, May the fourth, His Majesty lay in Stamford upon a bed with his clothes on all night, and that morning passed two of the Parliaments Guards, but could not be known, because His Beard was shaved, and His Lock cut, or neatly put up.  
On Tuesday morning His Majesty came to Southwell to the Scots. Army, and General Leven having intelligence that His Majesty was come into their Garrison, for, some Officers that were upon the Guard that saw Him, had some suspicion of Him that it was the King, who making it known, a search was made three hours before they could hear where he was, and about noon His Majesty sent to General Leven, letting him know he was there, (and that he was then with the French Agent) and that he would cast Himself upon them, whereupon there was advertisement given to the Scots Commissioners of His Majesty's being there, who with General Leven went to His Majesty, and caused him to remove his Q●arters to Kellam, Lieutenant General David Lesleys Quarters, where there was much amazement to see into how low a condition His Majesty was brought.  
General Leven had some Treaty with His Majesty about the surrender of Newarke, desiring Him to give Order to Bellassis the Governor for the delivery thereof, and His Majesty offered to surrender it to them, but General Leven answered, that to remove all jealousies they must yield to have it to be surrendered to the Parliament of England: and his Majesty was prevailed with to send to the Governor to give Order for the surrender thereof to the Parliament of England accordingly, which was agreed wednesday the 6 instant by the Commissioners, as may appear by the following Articles; After which agreement the Scots Forces (being willing to ease the Country thereabouts, who have been so long charged with so great an Army) with all cheerfulness and willingness, removed their Quarters more North ward, the King still remaining with Lieut. General David Lesley, and care being taken for fresh Clothes, and other refreshments for His Majesty: and the General taking care to remove to some more convenient and fresh Quarters, and being resolved to take care and charge of His Majesty, until both Kingdoms be agreed, to which to submit for the disposing of His Majesty's Person.  
There are few Armies without some disorder, by some that cannot be prevented, yet the chief of those that manage the business amongst our Brethren of Scotland, and our Commissioners, carry on all things with great wisdom, and it is hoped will prevent all differences, as may appear by this ensuing Letter from the Commissioners Quarters.  

Gentlemen,  
YOu are all now satisfied where the King is, though perhaps you will not know whilst this come to your hands, that he is this afternoon marched away Northwards with all the Scots Army, both Horse and Foot, we believe it is only into fresh Quarters, till the desires of the Parliament may be signified unto them, how they would have the Army disposed of, we have found a very exceeding fair correspondency with the old Scots General, and all the Commissioners, who have been ready to comply with us in all reasonable demands, as we on the other ●ide have not been wanting to express to them the like respects in my thing within our power, and for the Kings being in their Quarters, they do assure us that as His Majesty was unexpected, so they will use all care that His abode with them shall not be in the least manner prejudicial to the interest of the two Kingdoms; The Governor of Newark hath come out to us, and is wondrous fair conditioned, and promiseth to submit to whatsoever we shall advise, and will be careful to preserve all things in the Garrison for the public use, till the time of Surrender.  
BALDERTON. May the 7.   


Newark surrendered to the King and Parliament.  Upon the ninth of this instant May a Colonel from Newarke brought Letters to the House of Commons, from the Commissioners of the Parliament of England before Newark, of the certain surrender thereof to the Commissioners for the Parliament, for the use of King and Parliament, together with the Articles of agreement for the surrender thereof, which in sum and substance were thus much, That the Garrison, with all the Ordnance, Arms, and Ammunition, be surrendered to the said Commissioners; 
The sum of the Articles of Agreement.  The Governor, Officers, Gentlemen, Clergymen, and Soldiers of the Garrison to march away; All Officers and Gentlemen with their Horses and Swords, and their own proper goods, the Common Soldiers with staves in their hands, and their own goods; 
Our Brethren of Scotland drew off from Newarke.  and thus, I say, to march to any Garrison of the Kings, not besieged (if they found any) or to their own homes, and to have three months' time to endeavour to make their peace with the Parliament, or that failing, to be allowed Passes to go beyond Sea. Upon which agreement our Brethren of Scotland's Army drew off from Newark, and retreated about four miles, and the King with them in the Army, as you have heard in brief before. After the reading of the said Letters the House ordered that 100 l. should be bestowed upon the said Colonel that brought these Letters, for this and many other his for●er good services performed by him, during the siege of Newarke. The House likewise ordered that 30 l. should be bestowed upon the first Messenger that brought the news of the agreement on the said Articles for the surrender of Newarke. The House was also informed that Master Row Secretary to the Commissioners before Newarke, was at the Door, who was presently called in, and he also informed the House of the manner of His Majesty's coming in to the Scotch Army, and the House ordered that 50 l. should be bestowed on him as a gratuity for this and other former services to the State.  
Thus Newarke is now open and free again, and the Tradesmen are preparing to furnish their Shops, our Soldiers have already bought divers things of them, and the Country have a free market, but it cannot be expected to be much, whilst the sickness is in the Town; but to God be the praise, who hath done this great work for us, to deliver this strong hold of the Enemies into our hands; I pray God, that others (so oppressed) may have the like mercy, and peace and truth be seded amongst us, which is the prayers of  
Your humble Servant, S. R. Balderton, May 9 1646.  

A List of what was taken in Newarke on Friday the eight of May, 1646.  
ONe great Piece of Ordnance called Sweet-lips.  
11 Great Pieces of Ordnance more.  
2 Mortar Pieces.  
Divers Drakes and small Pieces.  
4000 Arms gathered, divers Arms not taken in.  
40 Barrels of Gunpowder.  
Many thousand weight of Bullets and Led, Match and other Ammunition, proportionable and plentiful.  
Little fresh meat, only Poultry, and that very scarce.  
Salt meat some plenty, but much of it tainted, and not fit to be eaten.  
Butter and Cheese some store.  
Beer and Wine many Barrels.  
Corn good store.  
Fewell for fire very little.   

A List of the Lords, Knights, Colonels, and chief of the Gentry that marched out of Newark to their own homes, to submit to the Ordinances of Parliament.  


Lords.  
LOrd Bellasis, Governor.  
Lord Davencourt.  
Lord Laxington.    


Knights.  
Sir John Burrell.  
Sir Guy Palms.  
Sir Charles Dalison.  
Sir Robert Dalison.  
Sir Robert Tredway.  
Sir George Hennings.  
Sir Jarvis Skroop.  
Sir Philip Constable.  
Sir Thomas Ingram.  
Sir Bryan Balms.  
Sir Jarvis Nevil.  
Sir Simon Fanshaw.  
And others.    


Great Clergymen.  
DOctor Farmer, Chancellor of Lincoln.  
Doctor March Dean of Yroke.  
Doctor Hurst, and others.    


Chief Officers.  
Mayor General Eyre.  
Colonel Gilby.  
Colonel Trollop.  
Colonel Herne.  
Colonel Darsey.  
Colonel Atkins.  
And others.    


The most malignant Aldermen of the Town were.  
The Major of Newark.  
Alderman Atkinson.  
Alderman Standish.  
And others.      
And upon the same ninth of May, aforesaid, being Saturday, we received the certain intelligence of the surrendering of the Castle of Banbury, 
Banbury Castle surrendered to the Parliament.  such another most pestilent, pernicious, and vexatious den of Thiefs and Royal Robbers, as was Bazing House in Hampshire, and especially most vexatious and pernicious to the Inhabitants of Northamptonshire, its next neighbour; but now at last, I say, by God's great mercy, and the valour and virtue of our brave Commanders and Soldiers, brought upon its knees of submission, being given up to that brave and courageous Commander Colonel Whaley, by Sir William Compton, than Governor thereof, upon fair and honourable Articles of agreement, which was done on Friday, May the 8. the substance of those articles also being to this effect: That all the Officers were to march away with Horses and Swords, but the Common Soldiers without Arms, their wearing apparel, and half their moneys by just account; and both Officers and Soldiers to have Passes to any place in England or Wales, not beleaguered, the City of London excepted; and those that desire it, Passes to go beyond Sea: and that upon these Conditions the Castle of Banbury to be delivered up as aforesaid, to Colonel Whaley, with all the Ordnance, Arms, Ammunition and Colours, without imbezlement, for the use of the Parliament, which was accordingly performed on the said Friday in the forenoon.  
And now the Houses taking into their just and serious consideration, the great and many mercies of God to us in our Forces, and by them also to the whole Kingdom, both in thus surrendering Newark and Banbury, now in our power and possession, and that Tuesday, May the 12 having been formerly appointed a day of solemn thanksgiving to Almighty God, 
A day of Solemn thanksgiving to the Lord for late great mercies to us.  throughout London and Westminster and 20. miles adjacent round about it, for the happy surrender of Exeter and other great mercies, not long before conferred upon us, together with this none of the least, of now at last the Lords giving our King into the hands and harbour and custody of our most Loyal and loving Brethren of Scotland. It was therefore Ordered that on this said day of Solemn thanksgiving the several Churches and Chappells in the City of London and Westminster, and 20. miles about it should likewise give most hearty thanks to the Lord our God for all these subsequent and additional rich and rare mercies; and that Tuesday seven night following, being May 19 should be kept as a Solemn day of Thanksgiving by all the Ministers in the Country over the whole Kingdom and Dominion of Wales within the power of Parliament.  
About the 16. of this instant May came Letters from valiant and active Colonel Morgan, giving us certain intelligence of the taking of Hartlebury-castle, lying between Dudley and Worcester and was the Bishop of Worcester's seat, 
Hartlebury Castle taken.  a hopeful omen for the taking of Worcester itself also, endue time. Which Castle being now surrendered to brave Colonel Morgan, the Officers marched forth with Horse and Arms, Troopers and Common Soldiers with out Arms, and all the rest of the Articles being according to agreement fairly performed on both sides, the brave Colonel took possession of the Castle; 
The prizes taken therein.  wherein also were taken, 6. pieces of Ordnance, 200. Arms, 15. barrels of powder, match and bullet proportionable and a full proportion of all manner of prosions for 200. men for 6. months at least.  
And about the 20. instant we received certain information by Letters from valiant and active Colonel Birch also of the agreement for the surrender of that strong Castle and Garrison of Ludlow which was delivered on the like conditions to those of Hartleburie. 
Ludlow surrendered to the Parliament.   
And here, I must acquaint the Reader that the Lord having by his most wise and admirable providence in some hopeful 
Some hopeful sweet effects of the kings being in the custody of our loyal Brethren of Scotland.  measure given a blessed return to all the prayers of Gods faithful ones over the whole kingdom in bringing in the Person of the King unto us and committing him unto the care and custody of our Loyal and loving Brethren of Scotland; some sweets, of this remarkable overture of these things began now to break forth to the comfort of our hearts for the present, and hopeful persuasion, if not assurance, of more good to follow in the Lords good time, as was now manifested both by a Letter sent by his Majesty to the Lords and Commons, in the Parliament of England at Westminster Assembled, which his Majesty desired might be Communicated with Both Houses, which accordingly was done at a conference, where and when the said Letter was read; and another letter to the Commissionres of the Parliament of Scotland. And those being passages of special Eminency and wherein the whole Kingdom may no doubt desire to be in some measure (at least) satisfied, I shall therefore for the Readers content herein be somewhat more larger than Ordinary though, there by, I increase both mine own pains and charges at the press in giving the Reader the substance of some of them, which was as followeth:  
That his Majesty is not come into the Scots Army out of any intent to divide the Kingdoms in affection, 
The sum of the king's Letto the Parliament of England.  or prolong the War, but that he might secure his person, and labour the composing the difference between him and his Kingdoms, and settle all well: and in regard Religion is the chief point, he desires that may be first insisted upon and settled according to the advice of the Assembly of Divines of both Kingdoms assembled at Westminster: And for the Militia, he is willing to concur with that propounded at Uxbridge, that it be in such hands as shall be agreed for 7. years: And for Ireland, he will do what he can to satisfy desires of that kind: And for the disbanding of his Armies, and slighting Garrisons, and so avoiding the effusion of more blood; he is willing, likewise to call in all such Commissions as any have at Sea from him, and accordingly hath done: As for his Towns he is willing to surrender, and that they be slieghted, and accordingly hath sent to Sir Thomas Glemham: only in regard there are some such there, as have faithfully served him in the preservation of his person, he desires they may have honourable and good terms, and that had, the surrender of Oxford shall be a rule to the rest of the Towns, Cities, and Castles; that all Forces may be disbanded to the quiet and ease of both the Nations: likewise that the debts of the Kingdom be paid he shall be willing, with some other particulars, but these are the chief.  
The Letter from His Majesty to the Commissioners of the Parliament of Scotland is as follows Verbatim.  
CHARLES R. Right trusty and well-beloved Cousins and Counsellors, right trusty and right well-beloved Cousins, trusty and well-beloved, Councillors, And trusty and well-beloved, We greet you well.  
AFter so long and sad an interruption of the happy understanding betwixt Us and Our good Subjects of our Kingdom of Scotland (which hath exceedingly afflicted Us) and lest the sad effects thereof may have alienated the affections of many of that Kingdom from Us, and preferring nothing to the love of Our subjects on which Our safety and greatness most depends, and without which We propose not to ourselves any happiness, We have thought fit to labour to dispossess them of all prejudices, rather by showing them Our present Resolutions, than by remembering them of Our former differences, having come hither with a full and absolute intention to give all just satisfaction to the joint desires of both Our Kingdoms, And with no thought either to continue this unnatural War any longer, or to make a division betwixt the Kingdoms, but to comply with our Parliaments and those entrusted by them in every thing, for settling of Truth and Peace. Your Commissioners have offered to Us divers Papers in your name, expressing Your Loyal intentions towards Us, for which we cannot but return you hearty thanks, And shall study to apply Ourselves totally to the Counsels and advices of Our Parliaments. We have already sent a Message to the two Houses of Our Parliament of England and your Commissioners at London, which we hope will give satisfaction. We have likewise written to all such within Our Kingdom of Scotland, as have any Commission from Us, to lay down Arms, disband their forces, and render their Garrisons, And have written to Our Agents and Ministers abroad for recalling all Commissions issued forth by Our Authority to any at Sea against any of Our Subjects of either Kingdom; And have sent Letters to the Governor of Our City of Oxford, to quit that Garrison upon honourable conditions, and disband Our forces there which being granted to him, we have resolved presently to give the like order to all Our other Garrisons and forces within this Kingdom. And that the truth of these Our Royal intentions may be made known to all Our good Subjects of Scotland, We desire a Proclamation may be printed and published together with this Letter, at all convenient places, hoping none will believe but that this is Our voluntary and cordial resolution and proceeds from no other grounds than Our deep sense of the bleeding condition of Our Kingdoms. And that Our Real intentions are with the blessing of God and his favourable assistance) to join with Our Parliament in settling Religion here in purity (after the advice of the Divines of both Kingdoms assembled at Westminster) And Our Subjects of both Kingdoms in freedom and safety. So expecting your Counsels and advices in every thing wherein we shall be concerned. We bid you very heartily farewell.  
From Newcastle, May 10. 1646.  
Besides these likewise, the King, to show his love to the City of London, also sent a Letter to the said most famous City which being but short, I shall for my Readers better content and satisfaction, here insert, which was as followeth.  
CHARLES' REX.  
RIght Trusty and well-beloved, we greet you well. Having expressed Our resolutions to the two Houses of Our Parliament of England, and the Committee of Estates of Our Parliament of Scotland, to give all just satisfaction to the joint desires of both Kingdoms, we have now likewise thought fit to assure the two chief Cities of both Our Kingdoms, That nothing is more grievous to Us, than the troubles and distractions of Our people, And that nothing on earth is more desired by us, then, that in Religion and Peace with all the comfortable Fruits of both, they may henceforth live under Us in all godliness and honesty; And this profession we make for no other end, but that you may know immediately from Ourselves, Our integrity and full resolutions to comply with our Parliaments in every thing for settling truth and peace. And our desire to have all things speedily concluded, which shall be found requisite for that end, That Our return to that Our ancient City, may be to the satisfaction of Our Parliament, the good liking of you, and all our good people, and to our own greater joy and comfort, we bid you heartily farewell.  
From Newcastle the 19 of May, 1646.  
And upon the 26. of this instant May the most renowned famous and faithful Citizens of London, in their most Cordial zeal for God's glory, the honour of Religion, hatred of damnable doctrines, errors and Schisms (wherewith the City was then extremely infected and infested) and for the honest honourable vindication of themselves as touching their Solemn League and Covenant in promoting the long desired establishment of a godly Church-Government in City and Country and over the whole Kingdom, exhibited to Both Houses of Parliament (which I must, and that most worthily enrol in this our Parliamentarie-Chronicle, among the rare and most remarkable mercies of our good God unto us in thus raising up the Spirits of these most renowned Citizens to such a high place and pitch of godly zeal and faithful courage) exhibited, I say, 
The famous City Remonstrance exhibited to Both Houses of Parliament.  a most noble and renowned Remonstrance or Petition, in the name of the Lord Major and Aldermen and Common-council of that most Honourable City of London, wherein their piety and Cordial integrity to God, the Church and State was most Copiously and right Christianly Demonstrated, to the perpetuated honour and indelible dignity of those renowned Citizens, especially of their never sufficiently honoured and renowned religious and pious Lord Major, Alderman adam's who told his Brethren (who in their prudence and providence for weighty reasons best known among themselves, not willing to let their noble Lord Major go along with them to the exhibiting of the said Remonstrance) told them, I say, with expression of much fervour and zeal therein, That, Though his Person was not permitted, yet his heart he assured them, most affectionately went along with them. Which said rare and religious Remonstrance, both for the Readers better content and satisfaction (especially it having been so basely and abusively scandalised by a rabble of rotten hearted impious and impudent Sectaries of the City) and for the supereminent Excellency of the Thing itself, speaking, indeed, much merited honour for it self, I have here thought fit to insert it, which was as followeth.  
And, here, first (good Reader) thou shalt see the honour which the most Honourable House of Lords in Parliament put upon it, in giving special Order for the speedy printing and publishing of it to all the world; and then after it, thou shalt have their most noble and ever to be renowned resent, and singular approbation and Commendation of it, immediately after it.  


Die Martis, 26 Maii. 1646.  
IT is this day Ordered by the Lords in Parliament Assembled, That the Remonstrance and Petition of the Lord Mayor, aldermans, and Common-council of the City of London, this day exhibited to the House of Peers, and their Lordships Answer thereunto, shall be forthwith printed and published; And the care for the true printing thereof, is hereby specially recommended unto Colonel John Bellamy, who is by this Order authorized and required to print and publish the same accordingly: And none else are to presume to print and publish the same, as they will answer the contrary at their perils.  
Jo. Brown Cleric. Parliamentorum.   

To the Right Honourable the LORDS Assembled in High Court of Parliament.  
The humble Remonstrance and Petition of the Lord Mayor, aldermans, and Commons of the City of London, in Common-council assembled.  
OUR duty, in the first place, doth lead us to begin all our Addresses, as we most heartily and humbly do these, with all due and humble acknowledgement of the great Labours and endeavours which Your Lordships have, these many years, employed, in Reformation both of the Church and Commonwealth, and in preservation of both, with the humble tender of our constant devotion to serve the Parliament, according to our Covenant made before Almighty God.  
In the next place, we most humbly crave pardon, although we do presume to return again unto your Lordships, and humbly, yet plainly, lay open the sorrows and fears of our hearts, even in this season, when as God hath blessed your Armies with the greatest successes, 
Remonstrance of the State of the Kingdom, pag. 19  and that man might persuade himself that the War is almost at an end.  
For first, when we remember that it hath been long since declared to be far from any purpose or desire to let loose the golden Reins of Discipline and Government in the Church, or to leave private persons, or particular Congregations, to take up what form of Divine Service they please; when we look upon what both Houses have resolved against Brownism, and Anabaptism, properly so called, when we meditate on our Protestation and Covenant.  
And lastly, 
The Parliaments Declaration, upon his Majesty's Declaration after the Battle at Edge-hill. pag. 659.  when we peruse the Directory, and other Ordinances for Presbyterial Government, and yet find private and separate Congregations daily erected in divers parts of the City, and elsewhere, and commonly frequented, (and Anabaptism, Brownism, and almost all manner of Heresies, Schisms, and Blasphemies, boldly vented and maintained, by such as, to the point of Church-Government, profess themselves Independent) we cannot but be astonished at the swarms of Sectaries, which discover themselves every where, who, if by their endeavours, they should get into places of profit and trust, in Marshal and Civil affairs, it may tend much to the disturbance of the Public Peace both of the Church and Commonwealth.  
We also cannot but call to mind what Vows we have made to God in the same Covenant, as well as our former Protestations, to preserve the Rights and Privileges of the Parliament, and the Liberties of the Kingdoms, and to preserve and defend the King's Majesty's person and Authority, in the preservation and defence of the true Religion, and Liberties of the Kingdoms, that the world may bear witness with our Consciences, of our Loyalty, and that we have no thoughts or intentions to diminish his Majesty's just Power and Greatness, and do humbly rest in the assurance we have received in the many former Declarations of both Houses, concerning their intentions towards his Majesty, his Royal Posterity, and the Peace of this Kingdom, which we doubt not but your Lordships will pursue with all speedy dispatch of Propositions to his Majesty, now whilst God doth so mercifully and miracuously go along with your Armies in all the parts of the Kingdom.  
We may not in the next place forget our Brethren of Scotland, how first they were invited to engage with this Kingdom in God's Cause, when yet they were at peace at home, in what Covenant this Nation is mutually linked with them, at what time, in relation both to the weak condition of our Forces then, and the season of the year, they adventured upon an Enemy warmly lodged and well armed and prepared; what they have since suffered for this Cause in their own Kingdom, how successful ever since God hath made our Forces in suppressing the Common Enemies of both Nations, and what present hopes we have of a well-setled Peace, while we continue in this mutual amity; And then cannot but lament the many jealousies which the Enemies of our Peace, Union, and good Government, do now strive to beget between both Nations, and tremble at the sad effects thereof, if not timely prevented by the wisdom of the Parliaments of both Kingdoms.  
We cannot also omit humbly to represent unto your Lordship's consideration, how many Citizens have already suffered, and how many more will be undone, if your Lordships shall still make use of that ancient Privilege, to protect yourselves, the Assistants of this Honourable House, and the Servants of both, and others, from being proceeded against in any course of Law for Debt, which now, because this Parliament hath already sat so long, and is likely, by reason of the unsettledness of affairs to sit much longer, would especially require some expedient for relief of so many as otherwise must daily suffer under this Privilege.  
And now that the Kingdom is almost reduced, by which means the Revenues of the Kingdom will be unburthened, and the Customs and Excise increase, and the public charge of the Kingdom decrease, now that Delinquents do daily come in and compound, and now that the Enemy hath but few Holds left, we hope that the great and extraordinary Taxes and burdens on this City and their Trade, shall be in the future abated; that the Debts owing to the City and Citizens of London, either by particular Assurances of the Parliament, or upon the Public Faith of the Kingdom, be taken care for and discharged, as well as those assigned upon the Excise, and may not be diverted from the uses appointed by former Acts and Ordinances.  
And we humbly crave have to present to the consideration of this Honourable House, the Committee of Haberdash●rs-hall, as being one of the greatest grievances of this City, and which, so long as it is continued, doth hinder the concoursie of people thereunto, and tendeth much to the destruction of the Trade, and Inhabitants thereof.  
And now also we doubt not but God will give the Parliament some better means and opportunity for the relief of our bleeding Brethren in Ireland, and the suppressing of those horrid Rebels, and reducing of that Kingdom, wherein, besides the public and common interest, we are particularly concerned.  
Lastly, we should have much to say for this City, if we could imagine that its fidelity and constant services and devotions to the Parliament could either be questioned or forgotten, that little we shall express on the part of the City, is, not to repeat how zealous we have been in the Cause of God, and this Parliament, how we have spilt our blood, and spent and laid out ourselves and our Estates in maintenance thereof; how many public acknowledgements we have by us of the favourable acceptance of them, and promises to leave Testimonies thereof to all future ages; but only to beseech your Lordships to consider how much our hearts may justly be dejected, now that God hath followed your endeavours, and our prayers, with so many successes, and brought the War to a probable period, as to the sense of man: That the Enemies of our Peace should strive now to sow jealousies between the Parliament and this City, as hath been too evident of late, and particularly should so far prevail, as to be able to render the chief Magistrate of this City, the Lord Mayor, suspected, unto whom we cannot but give this just Testimony, That he in his place hath faithfully behaved himself, and carefully dischaged his Office.  
We could add much more of the daily invectives against us from the Pulpit, and other places where the Boutefew's of these Sectaries are admitted, the scurrilous and seditious Pamphlets daily broached in, and against the City: And the great contempt of, and discouragement unto the Ministers of the Gospel, who adhere to the Presbyterial Government: But we shall conclude with this brief and humble representation of our Petition and desires to your Lordships in the name of the whole City.  
I. That some strict and speedy course may be taken for the suppressing of all private and separate Congregations.  
II. That all Anabaptists, Brownists, Heretics, Schismatics, Blasphemers, and all such Sectaries as conform not to the public Discipline established, or to be established by Parliament, may be fully declared against, and some effectual course settled for proceeding against such persons.  
III. That as we are all Subjects of one Kingdom, so all may be equally required to yield obedience unto the Government set forth, or to be set forth by the Parliament.  
IV. That no 
* This desire of the City of London is no more, nor other in effect than the House of Commons in Parliament itself voted (as most justly) at the taking of the Protestation, May 5. 1641.  person disaffected to the Presbyterial Government set forth, or to be set forth by the Parliament, may be employed in any place of public Trust.  
V. That your Lordships will please to hasten Propositions to His Majesty, for settling of a safe and well grounded Peace amongst us, after so long and unnatural a war.  
VI That your Lordships, according to the Covenant and Treaties, will please to study all means to preserve the Union between the two Nations of England and Scotland, and to remove all jealousies which may endanger our mutual agreement.  
VII. That your Lordships will please to consider of some means whereby the privilege which the Members of this Honourable House, and their Assistants, and the Servants of both, and others enjoy, by being protected and exempted from being proceeded against for their debts, may be so qualified, as that the Subject may be able to recover his own in some due time.  
VIII. That all public Revenues and Receipts may be employed to public uses, that so the Taxes of the City may be abated.  
IX. That the Estates and Compositions of Delinquents may, according to the engagements by Ordinances of Parliament, be applied to discharge the great sums owing to this City and Citizens.  
X. That the Plymouth Duty may be taken off the Trade, especially now that the West is reduced.  
XI. That the Committee at Haberdashers-Hall may be presently dissolved, or at least so limited and regulated, as that the City may have no cause of complaint.  
XII. That the reducing of the Kingdom of Ireland may be taken into consideration, before the good party there be too far wasted and discouraged.  
XIII. That the Lord Mayor of this City may be fully vindicated.  
XIV. And lastly, and above all, That your Lordships will please not to look upon any expressions of this our Remonstrance and Petition, as charging any thing upon your Lordships, or as intended to entrench upon any privileges of this Honourable House, but favourably to accept thereof, and so to interpret the same, as from a single and humble heart it is sincerely, and without any by-ends, or to comply with any party whatsoever, intended and breathed forth from the sad heart of the Petitioners, who are overwhelmed with many fears on all sides. And who call God, the Searcher of all hearts, to witness, that according to their Covenant and duty, their zeal, devotion and obedience, is as servant and prostrate as ever to serve the Parliament with their Lives and Estates, against all the Enemies of our Peace, and to conjoin the City more and more to the Parliament, and to maintain the Union of both Nations against all Opposers whatsoever.  
All which we humbly submit unto the wisdom of this Honourable House.   

26. Maii. 1646. The Answer of the Lords in Parliament to the Remonstrance and Petition of the City of London.  
THe Lords are very sensible of the great fidelity and constant services of the Lord Mayor, aldermans, and Common-council of the City of London, to this present Parliament, which they shall never forget; They acknowledge their zeal, expressed upon all occasions in the Cause of God and this Parliament, and how readily they have spilt their blood, and spent and laid out themselves and their Estates in the maintenance thereof.  
They are well satisfied with your Expressions and Care to settle the true Reformed Protestant Religion, according to the Covenant, and with your desires to have all Heresies, Schisms, and Blasphemies suppressed, as also with your respect to preserve the Rights and Privileges of Parliament, the Liberties of the Kingdoms, and to preserve and defend his Majesty's Person and Authority, in the preservation of the true Religion, and the Liberties of the Kingdoms, his Royal Posterity, and the Peace of the Kingdoms: As also with your desires for the continuance of that union between us and our Brethren of Scotland; Of whose services and sufferings we shall not only hold a grateful memory, but upon all occasions give a Retaliation. Unto all which we hold ourselves equally with you obliged, by our Solemn League and Covenant.  
As to the person of the Lord Mayor, the Lords hold a high esteem of him, according to his Merit, and have commanded me to let you know, that nothing hath passed this House at any time in prejudice of him; And when the particulars wherein he finds himself aggrieved shall be made known unto them, they shall be ready in a Parliamentary way to do him right.  
The Lords will take the other particulars of 〈◊〉 Petition into serious and speedy consideration; And have commanded me to give you hearty thanks for the Real Testimonies of duty and good affections, which not only by your words, but by your Actions, you have constantly manifested unto them.  
Jo. Brown Cleric. Parliamentorum.    
And the very same day and time the said noble Citizens exhibited the like Remonstrance and Petition to the honourable House of Commons, of which I say no more, but leave it to the Lords most gracious and righteous wisdom and mercy, for a happy return in his own due time.  
But that which is yet farther very memorable and remarkable in this business (which I only touched before, and as you saw it most evidently true before) was, That the very day before the Remonstrance was exhibited in Parliament, the King's Majesty himself (as it were to honour and encourage them in that their famous and faithful resolution) sent a particular Letter to the Lord Mayor, aldermans, and Common-council 〈…〉 which, they being all at that time assembled in their Guild-Hall, was publicly read in the audience of them all; And, which is yet more memorably remarkable, and worthy serious and sacred observation, That a day or two at the farthest after they had exhibited their Remonstrance, as aforesaid, the truly religious, and sincerely affected Ministers of two Counties, Suffolk and Essex, (as it were to back the City's brave Remonstrance) exhibited a most excellent Petition to the Lords and Commons in Parliament, attested by at least 300 Ministers hands, subscribed to it, which also for the piety and excellency of it, I have thought fit, for the Readers better delight and satisfaction here to insert, which was as followeth:  


To the Right Honourable the House of Lords now Assembled in PARLIAMENT.  
The Humble Petition of the Ministers of the Counties of Suffolk and Essex. concerning the Church-Government, presented to the Right Honourable Houses of Parliament.  
Shows,  
THat your solemn League and Covenant, great and glorious Victories, the expectation of the Reformed Churches beyond the Seas, the longing desires of our Brethren of Scotland, the humble Petitions of the Reverend Assembly, and the great City of this Kingdom, the pressing miseries of the Orthodox and well-affected Ministers and People in the Country, cry aloud to your Honours for a settling of Church-Government according to the Word. From the want of this it is, Right Honourable, that the name of the most High God is blasphemed, his precious truths corrupted, his Word despised, his Ministers discouraged, his Ordinances vilified. Hence it is, that Schism, Heresy, Ignorance, Profaneness, and Atheism, flow in upon us, Seducers multiply, grow daring and insolent, pernicious Books poison many souls, ●●ety and learning decay apace, very many Congregations lie waste without Pastors, the Sacrament of Baptism by many neglected, and by many reiterated, the Lords Supper generally dis-used or exceedingly profaned, confusion and ruin threatening us in all our Quarters.  
In all humility therefore acknowledging your unwearied labours for the public good, your successful endeavours for saving this Kingdom, your hopeful beginnings of a blessed Reformation; we out of conscience and in tender regard to the glory of God, and the salvation of our people, beseech your Honours, That a form of Church-Government, according to the Word of God, and the example of the best Reformed Churches, may with all possible speed be perfected, and confirmed by your civil sanction; that Schismatics, Heretics, seducing Teachers, and soul-subverting Books, be effectually suppressed; That further care may be had of Ordination for a supply of able and Orthodox Ministers, and all good means used to make up the sad breaches in this our Zion. So shall the Church of God be settled, your hands strengthened, the sacred Covenant performed, our fears prevented, the Judgements of God diverted.  
And your Petitioners shall ever pray, etc.   

The Lords Answer to the said Petition.  
THe Lords are glad to find this zeal and care in the Ministry of the Counties of Suffolk and Essex, for the preventing the further increase of Heresy and Profaneness, and for the promoting a growth in the power of godliness. The Lords desire you to continue still in your endeavours therein, and they will not be wanting to give you all encouragement. They have commanded me to give you thanks for your expressions of your good affections to the Parliament and this Cause, and do assure you that they will improve their power for the suppressing of Error, Heresy, seducing Teachers, and soul-subverting Book, and likewise for the settling of Church Government according to the Word of God, and the example of the best reformed Churches, to which they hold themselves obliged by their solemn League and Covenant, and that their Lordships have appointed that their Petition with this answer shall be printed and published.  
John Brown Cler. Parliamentorum.   

The Answer of the House of Commons to the Minister Petition.  
Die Mercurii 27. Maii. 1646.  
THe House being informed that divers Ministers of the Counties of folk and Essex were at the door, they were called in, and presented to the House a Petition, entitled, The humble Petition of the Ministers of Suffolk and Essex, the which was read.  
The Ministers were again called in, and Master Speaker by command of the House acquainted them, That most of the particular desires of their Petition are now under consideration, and they hope will be brought to a settlement speedily: That the House is very sensible, that through some intervening obstructions the Church-Government hath not been so fully settled as they desire, and that they give them thanks for their good affections, and desire them to put all Ordinances in execution concerning Church-Government as lie within their power.  
H. Elsing Cler. Parl. D. Com.    
This special act also of Divine providence so opportunely bringing in these Minister's Petition, much to the very same effect as the City's Remonstrance was, and full of much piety and zeal for God and his Great Cause the present miserably distracted and distorted Church by abominable Errors and Schisms, I could not but most gratefully and gladly record in these our Parliamentarie-Annals, as no small mercy of the Lord unto us and worthy to be taken notice of to the glory of God and honour of those two most worthily to be honoured Counties.  

Salcoomb Regis Surrendered. Bostol-House also yielded up to the Parliament.  And about the third of June,1646. We were certainly informed of the taking of Salcomb-Regis which was surrendered to Colonel Welden; and also that Bostol-house a most pestilent and pernicious Garrison of the Enemies, was also yeeled up unto the power and possession of the Parliament.  
And upon the 4. of June, it pleased the Lord to put into the hearts of our most worthy Parliamentary worthies to set forth an 
Ordinance of Parliament for the better settlement of Presbyterian Church Government.  Ordinance of Parliament for the settlement of that great scruple and Question among God's people as touching the point of worthy or unworthy Communicants at the Sacrament of the Lords Supper; and for the more full and certain establishment of the Presbyterian Church Government; a mercy long and most earnestly desired by all, except our most pernicious and disorderly Se●●aries and Libertines: And the Ordinance to continue thus for the space of three years.  
And whereas I gave a hint or touch before, of our Cause of jealousy that the Kings putting himself into the hands of our loving and loyal brethren of Scotland, and his writing of fair and smooth Letters was not so Cordial as we did and could have desired (how ever we trust and pray the Lord who hath the hearts of Kings in his hands and can turn them as the Rivers of water, May and will in his good time hear the prayers of his people therein also) I shall here give the Reader a notable Demonstration that our said jealousy was not groundless, as may too evidently appear, by this ensuing Letter of his Majesties (if it were his Majesties own act whereof there is some uncertainty it being assured that his Majesty disclaimed it, and so 'tis hoped it was not his, but that most wicked Agents, Secretary Nicholass) sent to the marquis of Ormond in Ireland, a little before he departed from Oxford, which showed his still hollow and unholy heart to plot and foment new inlargements of our bloody broils and Civil wars, which Letter being sent by Ormond to that loyal and brave Commander in Arms Major General Monroe in Ireland, and by him to the Commissioners of the Parliament of Scotland by Sir Robert King, I have here thought fit to insert it verbatim, as it was printed and published by order of Parliament which was as followeth.  
CHARLES' REX.  
RIght trust and entirely beloved Cousins and Concellors, We greet you well, having used all possible and honourable means, by sending many gracious Messages to the two Houses of Parliament, wherein we have offered them all they have heretofore desired, few or none will believe this that have had any knowledge of the Parliaments just desires, and what the answers have been to them,) and desire from them nothing but what they themselves (since these unhappy wars) have offered, to procure Our Personal Treaty with them, for a safe and well grounded Peace, and having in stead of a dutiful and peaceable return to Our said Messages, received in stead thereof either no answer at all, or such as argues nothing will satisfy them, but the ruin not only of Us, Our Posterity and Friends, but even of Monarchy itself; and having lately received very good security, that We and all that do or shall adhere to Us, shall be safe in Our Honours, Persons and Conferences, in the Scottish Army, and that they shall really and effectually join with Us, and with such as will come in unto Us and join with them, for Our preservation, and shall employ their Arms, and Forces to assist Us to the procuring of a happy and well grounded Peace for the good of Us and our Kingdoms, in the recovery of Our just Right: We have resolved to put ourselves to the hazard of passing into the Scots Army now lying before Newarke, and if it shall please God that We come safe thither, We are resolved to use our best endeavours with their assistance, and with the conjunction of the Forces under the marquis of Montrosse, and such of Our well affected Subjects of England as shall rise for Us, to procure if it may be an honourable and speedy Peace, and those who hitherto refused to give ear to any means tending thereunto, of which Our resolution We held it necessary to give you this advertisement, as well to satisfy you and all Our Counsel and Loyal Subjects with you (to whom We will that you communicate these Our Letters (that failing in Our earnest and sincere endeavours by Treaty to put an end to the miseries of these Kingdoms; We esteemed Ourself obliged to leave no probable expedition unattempted to preserve Our Crown and Friends from the usurpation and tyranny of those whose actions declare so manifestly their Design to overthrow the Laws and happy established Government of this Kingdom. And now We have made known to you Our Resolution, We recommend to your special care the disposing and managing of Our affairs on that side as you shall conceive most for Our Honour and service, being confident the course We have taken (though with some hazard to Our Person) will have a good influence on that Our Kingdom and defer, if not altogether prevent the Rebels (meaning the Parliament) transporting of Forces from them into that Kingdom. And We desire you to satisfy all Our well affected Subjects on that side, of Our Princely care of them, whereof they shall receive the effect as soon as God shall enable Us.  
We desire you to use some means to let Us and Our Council at Oxon here frequently from you, and of your actions and conditions there; and so God prosper your Loyal Endeavours.  
SATURDAY, June 6.  
Thus have you seen the King's Letter full indeed, of much evil, and Demonstration of no change of heart from his former bloody, cruel and unkingly practices of the ruin of himself and his Kingdoms, as much in as him lay, if indeed, it were his own act, as it was too strongly presumed to be: upon which many jealousies being raised and founded against our Loyal brethren of Scotland; they therefore in vindication of their own integrity presented a Declaration to the Houses of Parliament in the name of the Commissioners of Scotland, which was read accordingly, and which I have here thought fit to insert, for the Readers better content and satisfaction, which was as followeth.  


For the Right Honourable the Speaker of the House of Peers, pro tempore.  
Right Honourable:  
THis enclosed paper having very lately come to our hands, which although it hath not so much as colour enough to deceive, yet nevertheless as General Major Monro, in testimony of his integrity, did communicate the thing to the Commissioners of Parliament in Ulster, so we for preventing mistakes (many Copies of the same thing being spread among the people) have thought good to communicate the same to the Honourable Houses, with our sense upon it, that by their wisdom and reciprocal care, a right understanding in all things may still be preserved between the Kingdoms. Whether any such Letter was signed by the King at Oxford, or whether it was invented of purpose to support a declining party, we do not know; what may concern the King in it, we leave to himself, who, as he hath since the date of that paper expressed contrary intentions and resolutions in his Messages to both Kingdoms, so he can best tell what he wrote at that time, we are only to speak to the matter of the paper which cometh from the hand of Secretary Nicholas, unto whose informations what credit ought to be given the Houses very well know, It doth consist in our perfect knowledge and (we declare it with as much confidence as ever we did or can do any thing) that the matter of the paper, so far as concerneth any assurance or capitulation for joining of Forces, or for combining against the Houses of Parliament, or any other private or public agreement whatsoever, between the King upon the one part, and the Kingdom of Scotland their Army, or any in their name, and having power from them, upon the other part, is a most damnable untruth. We shall not need to express how improbable it is, if there had been any such agreement, that the King about the same time should have sent a Message to both Houses, offering to come to London, and to follow their advice in all things, without offering any satisfaction to the Kingdom of Scotland, and that before he received the answer of the Houses he should write such a Letter to Ireland, and give order to make it known, not only to his Privy Council, but to his other Subjects of that Kingdom. Nor will we insist how improbable it is that the King should make this known to the marquis of Ormond, and neglect to acquaint the late Earl of Montrosse, who had been much more concerned, and who would, no doubt, if he had known any such thing, have communicated the same to General Major Middleton, and prevented the defeating of himself, his associates and forces, about the middle of May, after the King was with the Scottish Army. Nor how unlikely it is that he who is for the time Commander in chief for the Scottish forces in Ireland, should be for the space of seven or eight weeks totally ignorant of any such agreement, or if he had known any such thing, that he would have communicated it to the Commissioners of the Parliament, and immediately marched himself to the fields against the Enemy. Nor shall we need to call to mind the expressions in the Lord Digbies intercepted Letters, which gave our Nation the character of such as could not be gained to that side, no not after all applications used. There are other more sure, and more public Testimonies since the date of that lying Paper, which make the falsehood of it more than palpable, as if divine providence had purposely ordered all the late actions of the Kingdom of Scotland, and of their Forces, both before and since the third of April, to be so many real confutations of that groundless invention: We mean, several late fights with the Rebels under the late Earl of Montrosse and Allaster Mac Donald; the delivery of Newark, the restraining and debarring of Delinquents and Malignants from the King's Person, and from our Army, the late public Declarations of the Church and State of Scotland in the beginning of April, as likewise of the General and Committee with the Army, agreed upon about the end of April, and published the 15 of May in Scotland, against a Band of the Earl of Seaforth and his Associates; As for other reasons, so especially for this, that the said Band did tend to the weakening of the confidence and Union between the two Kingdoms firmly joined and mutually engaged for assistance to each other in this Cause, as may appear more fully by the Declarations herewith presented. Nor can we pass the Paper delivered to the King by the Committee of Estates upon the 15 of May last, that if His Majesty should delay to go about the readiest ways and means to satisfy both his Kingdoms, they would be necessitated for their own exoneration to acquaint the Committee of both Kingdoms at London, that a course might be taken by joint advice of both Kingdoms, for attaining the just ends expressed in the Solemn League and Covenant. We shall say no more of this particular, God hath his own time to make manifest, who have dealt sincerely, and who falsely; and as our Nation did refuse to join with the Enemy's Forces when they were strongest, and did join with our Brethren of England in their weakest and most necessitous condition, so we shall never look for a blessing from God upon either Nation longer than they continue faithful to God, and to each other, according to the Covenant and Treaty. And we do confidently expect from the wisdom and Justice of the Honourable Houses, that this and such like Papers shall find no more credit here, than Papers and Declarations against themselves did formerly find in Scotland, and that Declarations and public Papers from the Kingdom of Scotland, or their Committees or Commissioners, shall have such acceptation with both Houses, as they desire Declarations from themselves, or Papers from any in their Name, may have with their Brethren of Scotland. Nor do we doubt but God will dissipate all these clouds of calumnies and misunderstandings endeavoured thereby, and will give such a frame of spirit to both Nations, as may continue them in a brotherly accord and mutual confidence for the good both of this, and of the succeeding Generations, which hath been, is, and shall be most earnestly wished and faithfully endeavoured by  
Your very affectionate friends, and humble servants. Lauderdaill. Johnston. Charles Erskine, Henry kennedy. Robert Barnlay. Worcester House, the 8. of June, 1646.   

Die Lunae 8 Junii, 1646.  
Ordered by the Lords assembled in Parliament, That the Letter of the Commissioners of the Parliament of Scotland. Dated the 8 of this instant June, 1646. shall be forthwith printed and published.  
Jo. Brown Cleric. Parliamentorum.    
And because there were many suspicions and jealousies loved and fomented in the hearts, and uttered too frequently by the tongues of many ill affected ones to our fair loyal and loving Brethren of Scotland, That they would not easily be got out of the Kingddome of England, no not when our wars were quite ended and we had no more need of them among us, as some, yea many of them maliciously took upon them to conceive, and spatter abroad with their base and busy tongues; I have therefore also here thought fit to insert another Letter or Declaration, enclosed in the foresaid Letter or Declaration to the Lords in Parliament, by the Commissioners of the Parliament of Scotland, as was forementioned, which I conceive may and will give fair and full satisfaction, touching that suspicion also, to those that are not too much biased with prejudice and partiality, which was as followeth:  

IT is not light but grievous to us to hear of any disorders at all committed by any person in that Army (how great soever the necessities be unto which they are redacted, or that our Army should be any longer burdensome to this Kingdom. And we do in the Name of that Kingdom and Army declare and assure, That as they came into this Kingdom upon an earnest invitation from both Houses of Parliament, and for the ends expressed in the Covenant and Treaty, and Declaration of both Kingdoms, (the close whereof doth express the resolution of both to have Truth and Peace settled upon a firm Foundation before their laying down of Arms) so their continuance neither is nor shall be made use of to the least encroachment upon the Government of this Kingdom; nor to any other ends besides those expressed in the Covenant and Treaty: And how soon soever Religion and Peace shall be settled accordingly, our Army and Garrisons shall forthwith remove out of this Kingdom. And these things we shall wish may be speedily done, and that the Propositions for a safe and well grounded Peace which did for a very short time remain in our ●ands) may now after so long expectation, be sent to the King, that upon his Royal consent to the desires of his People for settling and securing of Religion and Peace, his Majesty may return to his Parliament, here, all Armies may be disbanded, the heavy pressures of the Subjects ended, and the Kingdoms may remain in a firm Peace and Union to all Posterity, according to the Solemn League and Covenant.  
3 June 1646.   
These most honest, and (as I conceive) most abundantly satisfactory expressions and demonstrations of our honest and loyal Brethren, besides all their former faithful performances of all things promised and protested by them, and exacted from them ever since the beginning of coming among us, may, me thinks give full content and assurance too, to us all of their integrity and faithful intentions to deal most honestly and uprightly with us in all things; in the main, I mean, especially, notwithstanding the most shameless and graceless calumniating tongues and self-seeking ungodly intentions and Satanical desire of seditious Spirits to make a most sad and scelerous fraction and Division between two such Brother-Nations as we are or aught to be: But let them take heed, who ever they be least the severe and bitter curse of God fall not heavily on their heads and hearts too, who thus dare play fast and loose with sacreed Covenants and endeavour to separate (and that to a most bloody Division) those whom God hath so graciously conjoined: for, for my part, I never read or heard but that the Lord (the righteous judge, to whom vengeance belongs) did first or last, soon or late revenge most sadly and severely perfidious Covenant-breakers. But to proceed:  

Bostoll Garrison surrendered.  About the 8. of this instant June a Letter was read in the House of Commons from his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairefax, and therein Articles enclosed for the surrender of Bostol Garrison, thereof I made brief m●ntion only before; but now is most fully confirmed; The Articles were to this effect: That the Governor, Sir William Campion and all Officers in Commission should march away with their horse and arms, and those that desired to go beyond Sea should have passes, and they that desired to make their compositions should be effectually recommended by the General to the Parliament, that their fines should not exceed two years' revenue; the Common Soldiers to march away without arms to their own homes. Hostages were given for performance of these conditions, and the Garrison to be surrendered immediately to our forces for the use of the King and Parliament.  

Carnarvan Town and Castle surrendered.  And upon the 11. of June a Letter was brought to the House of Commons with Articles of the surrender of Carnarvan Town and Castle by Byron the Governor thereof to renowned Colonel Mitton and the House after the reading thereof considered of a Governor for the said Garrison, and having experience of the integrity, valour and fidelity of Colonel Thomas Glyn, they nominated and appointed him Governor of the said Town and Castle.  
Upon intelligence whereof the House of Commons ordered that thanks should be given in all Churches throughout London the next Lord's day, and likewise for Ludlow, Dudley-Castle and Carnarvan.  
About the 14. of this instant June we received certain knowledge from New Castle of the King's resolution to give speedy order for the surrendering of all the rest of his Garrisons, which yet held out against the Parliament a Copy whereof I have here thought fit to insert which was as followeth.  

CHARLES' REX.  
HAving resolved to comply with the designs of the Parliament in every thing that may be for the good of the Subjects and leave no means unassayed for removing of differences betwixt us; Therefore we have thought fit, the more to evidence the reality of our intentions of settling a happy and firm peace, to require you, upon honourable conditions to quit those Towns, Castles, and Forts entrusted by you to us, and to disband all the forces under your several commands.  
Newcastle the 10. June 1646.  
TO our trusty and well-beloved Sir Thomas Glemham, Sir Thomas Tidsley, Colonel Henry Washington, Colonel Thomas Blague, Governors of our Towns and Castles of Oxford, Worcester, Litchfield, and Wallingford; and all other Commanders of any other Towns, Castles, or Forts, within the Kingdom of England or Dominion of Wales.   
About the 19 of this instant June, the Parliament having had much and long debate about the Propositions to be sent to be signed by the King, and especially about the settlement of the Militia of the Kingdom, at last there was a happy Compliance of Both Houses about it; And it was resolved upon the question, That the Militia shall be in the power of Both Houses of Parliament for 20. 
The Propositions for a well grounded Peace resolved and in special 〈…〉 of the Kingdom.  years; and in case after 20. years there be occasion to use Arms by any insurrection at home or foreign invasion and the Lord● and Commons agree thereunto, if the King will not concur, yet it shall be Lawful for the Lords and Commons to proceed in that war and exercise of that Militia for the safety and peace of the Kingdom: And immediately after this the Proposions were by Both Houses of Parliament sent to the Commissioners of Scotland for their assent and concurrence in them.  
And much about the same time, there was aspeciall m●e●ing of the Divines of London and W●stminster and within the Lines of Communication, at Zion-Colledge, where three of them for all the rest, spent 5 hours or there about in prayer to beg direction from 
The Ministers of London and Westminster's pious meeting and religion resolution in Zion College.  God about the acting and putting in execution the Presbyterian Church-Government according to the late Ordinance of Parliament, enabling and authorising them thereunto; And some that were present there and Members of that Assembly assured me that they never saw or heard of a more zealous and earnest seeking of the Lord, and their prayers were uttered with such fervency and burning zeal that very many there present were so extraordinarily ravished in spirit, as caused very many tears to be shed and deep and heartily sighs and groans to be sent up to Heaven; And this holy work being ended, they began to debate of the work to be acted by them, and though at first they excepted against some things in the Ordinance of Parliament, yet at length by God's special providence, it was resolved with an unanimous consent, yea, Nemine Contradicente, to put on the work, and rest upon God and the Parliament, for the Composing of what was found wanting by practical experience; only for the better satisfaction of their own consciences therein and to show forth to the whole Church of God, as well abroad as at home, their advised care therein, they immediately upon it resolved on certain Considerable Causions, on which they under took the work, & printed and published them, I say, to the view of the World. An excellent passage of prudence and providence, in my poor judgement, and worthy such a reverend and religious Assembly.  

Letters from Sir Thomas Fairefax. Articles for the Surrender of Oxford and the Messengers rewarded by the Parliament.  And about the 22. instant the House of Commons in Parliament taking into consideration a Letter from his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairefax, and the Articles (which are extant at large in print, and too large to be here inserted,) for the Surrender of Oxford into the possession of the Parliament, and having spent much time in debate thereof, and being informed that one Doll the Chaplain of their Army before Oxford, who brought the Letter and Articles was at the door, the House thereupon ordered that he should be called in, and gave him the sum of 50. l. for his pains in the journey; and that one Master Heath another messenger from his Excellency should have 30 l. for a gratuity, for Letters which he brought about the said business, and likewise 20 l. to one Master Thredder.  

The Duke of York to come from Oxford to S. James-House.  They likewise considered (about the same time) of the reception and maintenance of the Duke of York in Saint James with the Kings other two children, and there to be provided for in an honourable and Princely way, as those two of his Majesty's children were. And about the 25. instant came Letters from renowned and victorious Colonel Mitton from Carnarvan with Articles enclosed for the surrender of Beaumorris Town and 
Beaumorris Town and Castle surrendered  Castle, a very strong Garrison in Wales which much annoyed the Country in those parts, and the Houses after the reading thereof ordered that the said Colonel Mitton should be Governor of the said strong Town and Castle, and ordered that a Commission should be granted to him accordingly.  
And on Wednesday June 25. the City & Garrison of Oxford was surrendered to his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairefax according to the agreement. Many (we understood at that time) made doubt whether it were surrendered or no, but we can assure them it for truth, being an eye witness thereof the manner briefly was thus. To pass by the several quarters of our Army, and the managing of the Line and works raised against Oxford, 
The manner of the surrender of Oxford.  a Guard was placed of several Regiments of Foot and Horse from the entrance into Oxon, at the East Port or Gate on both sides the way to Wheatly, which way the Enemy were to march; the surrender by the Articles should have been by ten of the clock, at which time some part of the Garrison marched forth and divers Coaches with Gentry, and their Wives and many the day before with Carriages Bag and Baggage, but the main body marched not forth until about two in the afternoon on Wednesday, at which time there fell a very bitter and violent storm of Rain which held for about an hour (some lesser showers we had besides likewise that day, but suddenly after the Enemy were marched forth, and ours about to enter Oxford the storms ceased, and the rest of the day very clear and fair, and this by the way some do observe as very remarkable. And also that there was the like stormy weather at the surrender of Leicester, Bristol, and Exeter; about two of the (clock as before) they marched forth both Officers and Soldiers, with their Arms in very good order with bag and baggage, both Officers and Soldiers generally demeaned themselves very civilly (except some few that were drunk) and as themselves say on our parts, never were Articles more punctually observed than by us, neither officer nor soldier offering them the least prejudice or used any reproachful language to them, as they marched; that which many grieved to see, was that there should be so many Irishmen and women amongst them, such a company of women, English Drabs, and Irish trulls as would have made a rotten Regiment, these are those that used constantly to follow that Army, and whose naughtiness is so well known we need not mention it; the number that marched out were adjudged to be between 3, and 4000 besides those that marched out before, and many of the Gentry, Clergy, and some Commanders that stayed behind in Oxford by permission until such time as they had Passes to go beyond Sea, and some to their own homes; the Garrison in the whole (as they report) consisted of above 7000. Soldiers in pay, townsmen and Scholars that bore arms. After the Governor, Officers, and Soldiers were marched forth, the Keys of the City and Forts delivered to the General, his Excellency gave order for 3 foot Regiments to march into Oxford which was done accordingly, and the guards presently placed, the Soldiers carried themselves with so much civility to the Citizens as was admired, not any one of them I am confident being damnified by the entrance of our men to the worth of six pence, and I may boldly speak it being then present in Oxford, and observed the whole passage, courteous language and entertainment there was on both sides, and not the least disorder: not much provisions were found in the City either for horse or man, only salted Beef and Corn a good quantity, a few Peas and Beans, but very little Hay, within two or three hours after we had entered, the Country people that lived near adjacent brought in what provisions they had, or could so suddenly provide, and some fresh meat, for the which they received ready monies, and not a Soldier of ours had, or desired one penny worth of any commodity, but what they gave ready monies for; there was in the Garrison about 30. piece of Ordnance ready mounted, and their Works very strong and large, which to have stormed would have cost the lives of very many men, too precious to be so cast away, when we might have it upon more reasonable terms, and we conceived none will imagine the conditions granted over large, if they but consider the strength of the place. But this I leave to others to judge.  
And on the 26. of this instant June, the Houses took into Consideration several Papers presented to the Grand-Committee of Both Houses from the marquis of Argyle, and the Scottish Commissioners here recident, of very singular and special Concernment and much conducing to the farther clearing of their (most ●●justly suspected) integrity towards us, & of their loving consent to the Propositions now fitted to be sent to his Majesty, for the more full completing our hopes of a well-grounded Peace; I have here thought fit to insert two or three of them especially the said pious Earl of Argyles excellent Speech made unto them, and a Paper concerning their said full consent to the Propositions, both which I have conceived most worthy to be recorded in these our Parliamentary Annals, as no small mercy of the Lord unto us, in thus so graciously clearing their unspotted fidelity, and of the most blessedly defeating the impious designs of the secret and crafty (but most malicious) enemies of our Peace and Unity, which were as followeth:  

The marquis of ARGYLES Speech to the Grand Committee, concerning Propositions of Peace to be sent to his MAJESTY.  

My Lords and Gentlemen:  
THough I have had the honour to be named by the Kingdom of Scotland, in all the Commissions which had relation to this Kingdom, since the beginning of this War; yet I had never the happiness to be with your Lordships till now, wherein I reverence God's providence, that he hath brought me hither at such an opportunity, when I may boldly say, it is in the power of the two Kingdoms, yea, I may say, in your Lordship's power to make us both happy, if you make good use of this occasion, by settling Religion, and the Peace and Union of these Kingdoms.  
The work of Reformation in these Kingdoms is so great a work, as no Age nor History can parallel since Christ's days, for no one Nation had ever such a Reformation set forth unto them, much less three Kingdoms; so that this Generation may truly think themselves happy, if they can be instrumental in it. And as the work is very great, so it cannot be expected but it must have great and powerful Enemies; not only flesh and blood which hate to be reform, but likewise Principalities and Powers, the Rulers of the darkness of this world: and spiritual wickednesses in high places. As the dangers are great, we must look the better to our duties, and the best way to perform these is to keep us by the Rules which are to be found in our national Covenant, principally the Word of God, and in its own place, the example of the best Reformed Churches; and in our way we must beware of some Rocks, which are temptations both upon the right, and upon the left hand, so that we must hold the middle path. Upon the one part we should take heed, not to settle lawless liberty in Religion, whereby in stead of Uniformity, we should set up a thousand Heresies and Schisms, which is directly contrary and destructive to one Covenant. Upon the other part, we are to look that we persecute not piety and peaceable men, who cannot through scruple of Conscience come up in all things to the Common Rule; but that they may have such a forbearance as may be according to the Word of God, may consist with the Covenant, and not be destructive to the Rule itself, nor to the Peace of the Church and Kingdom, wherein I will insist no further, either to wrong your Lordship's patience or judgements, who I doubt not will be very careful to do every thing according to our Covenant.  
As to the other point concerning the Peace and Union of the Kingdoms, I know it is that which all profess they desire, I hope it is that all do 〈◊〉 at; sure I am, it is that which all men ought to study and endeavour. And I think it not amiss to remember your Lordships of some former experiences, as an argument to move us to be wife for the future. If the Kingdom of England in the 1640. year of God, then sitting in Parliament, had concurred, as they were desired, against the Kingdom of Scotland, no question we had been brought to many difficulties, which blessed be God was by the wisdom of the Honourable Houses prevented. So likewise when this Kingdom was in difficulties, if the Kingdom of Scotland had not willingly, yea cheerfully sacrificed their peace to conc●●●e with this Kingdom, your Lordships all know what might have been the danger. Therefore let us hold fast that Union which is so happily established betwixt us, and let nothing make us again two, who are so many wai●s one▪ all of one Language, in one ●and, all under one King, one in Religion, yea one in Covenant; so that in effect we differ in nothing but in Name (as Brethren do) which I wish were also removed that we might be altogether one, if the two Kingdoms should 〈◊〉; for I dare say, not the greatest Kingdom in the Earth can prejudice both, so much as one of them may do the other.  
I will forbear at this time to speak of the many jealousies I hear are suggested, for as I do not love them, so I delight not to mention them, only one I cannot forbear to speak of, as if the Kingdom of Scotland were too much affected with the King's interest. I will not deny but the Kingdom of Scotland, by reason of the Reign of many Kings his Progenitors over them, hath a natural affection to his Majesty, whereby they wish he may be rather reform then ruined; yet experience may tell, their personal regard to him has never made them forget that common Rule, The safety of the People is the Supreme Law. So likewise their love to Monarchy makes them very desirous that it may be rathe● regulated than destroyed, which I hope I need not to mention further to your Lordships, who, I trust are of the same mind.  
I know likewise there are many jealousies and unjust aspersions cast upon our Armies in England and Ireland, I can, if it were needful, presently produce heads of a Declaration intended by the Army in England, for vindicating themselves from such injuries, and showing the clearness of their resolutions and integrity, both in the Cause, and towards this Kingdom, wherein their undertake and coming in at such a season of the year, their hard sufferings, and constant endeavours since may be sufficient testimonies. Therefore I am the more bold to desire your Lordships, that so long as they stay in England (which I wish may be for a short time) they may be supplied with some moneys, and their Quarters enlarged, lest their lying in too narrow Quarters make the burden insupportable to that exhausted corner of the Country where they now remain, and so beget outcries against them, when they are not able to discharge their Quarters, as other Armies within the Kingdom.  
As for the Army in Ireland, I have been an eye witness to their sufferings, and so may speak of it likewise upon certain knowledge, That never men have suffered greater hardships who might have been provided, for they have lived many times upon a few Beans measured out to them by number, and never had any other drink but Water. And when they were in some better condition, they had but an Irish peck of rough Oats for a whole week. And now at their best condition, when they are quartered upon the Country (which is able to entertain them only for a very short time) they have only an Irish peck of Oatmeal, or a shilling in the ten days, both for meat and drink. Therefore according to the many desires given in to the Honourable Houses for that end, I humbly entreat that your Lordships will take care to provide for them, so long as it is thought fit they remain in that Kingdom.  
For a renewed testimony of our earnest desires to comply with the Honourable Houses for settling the peace of these Kingdoms so much longed for, we do return unto your Lordships the Propositions of Peace (which we received on Tuesday last) with our consent thereunto, wishing they may be hasted to his Majesty, who hath so often called for them. And I likewise offer to your Lordships the Copy of his Majesty's Letter to my Lord of Ormond, discharging him from any further meddling in any Treaty with the Rebels in Ireland, I hope in order to his Majesties further condescending to the settling of that Proposition concerning Ireland, and the rest of the Propositions now to be sent unto him. Another Paper there is which concerns the supplying of the Scottish Armies in England and Ireland, and the perfecting of the Accounts between the Kingdoms, together with a Letter from General Monro to the Committee of Estates of the Kingdom of Scotland, concerning the state of affairs in Ireland. All which when your Lordships have considered, I trust you will take such course therein as may satisfy our just desires, may put an end to our present troubles, and settle these Kingdoms in a happy peace.   

A Paper delivered in from the Commissioners of Scotland concerning the PROPOSITIONS.  
IT is a twelve month since we did earnestly press the sending of Propositions to the King for a safe and well-grounded Peace; In answer whereunto the Honourable Houses were pleased to acquaint us, That they had resolved Propositions should be sent to his Majesty, but did intend to make some alterations in the former Propositions, and after eight or nine month's deliberation, we received from the Honourable Houses some of those Propositions; and though we did find therein very material additions, alterations, and omissions, which for their great importance, and the interest of the Kingdom of Scotland therein, might very well have required the delay of an Answer until the Estates of that Kingdom had been consullted; yet so unwilling were we to retard the means of Peace, that in a fortnight's time we returned an Answer upon the whole Propositions; and the Houses of Parliament not resting satisfied therewith, in less than ten days we prepared a further Answer; wherein we did very much comply with the desires of the Honourable Houses, especially in the matter of settling the Militia of England, and Ireland, and in other things did show our readiness to hear, or propose such expedients as might determine any differencer, so that in a whole years' time the Propositions have not remained in our hands the space of four weeks, which we only mention to clear our proceedings from mistakes and aspersions; and the Houses having now after two month's farther deliberation delivered unto us upon the 23. of this instant June, all the Propositions they intent to send to the King at this time; We do, without any delay, return such an Answer and resolution thereupon, as will be unto the present and future Generations, one undeniable testimony (besides many others) of the integrity and faithfulness of the Kingdom of Scotland in their solemn League and Covenant, of their love to Peace, and earnest desire to satisfy their Brethren of England in those things which concern the good and Government of this Kingdom; being further resolved touching the Kingdom of Scotland, That as nothing of single or sole concernment to that Nation did engage them in this War, so nothing of that nature shall continue the same. Although these Propositions now to be sent do much differ from the Propositons formerly agreed upon by the Parliament of both Kingdoms, and the most material additions, omissions, and alterations are in such particulars as concern the joint interest, and mutual considered and 〈◊〉 of both Kingdoms, which were as we conceive much better provided for, and strengthened by the former Propositions him by these. Although the particular Propositions presented by Us, concerning the Kingdom of Scotland are not yet agreed unto by the Houses of Parliament, as was offered in their Papers of the tenth of April. Although divers Propositions of joint concernment be now super●●ded, and the sending of them delayed to a more convenient time, as is ●●pressed in the Votes of both Houses of the twenty sixth of March; and ●●though (which is to us more than all the rest) those Ordinances of Parliament unto which the fifth and sixth Propositions do relate, (and were therefore communicated unto Us upon our desire to see what the Houses had already agreed upon concerning Religion) do not contain the establishment of such a Reformation of Religion, and uniformity as was expected, and was the chief end of our engagement in this War; and as all these Ordinances put together come short of what we wished, so there are some particulars which we conceive to be inconsistent with the Word of God, and the example of the best reformed Churches, and therefore cannot in our consciences consent unto them; which particulars were expressed to both Houses in the Remonstrance of the Commissioners of the Church of Scotland of the date, March 26. 1646. Yet nevertheless we do so earnestly desire, and so highly value the easing of the heavy Pressures under which both Kingdom's groan, and the bringing of this bloody lasting war to a speedy and happy ●nd, considering withal that not only the Book of Common Prayer, and the Prelatical Government are abolished, and a Common Directory of Worship established in both Kingdoms, but that likewise the Ordinances afore mentioned do contain divers Parts of a Positive Reformation, and uniformity in Church-Government, unto which we formerly gave our consent in our answer upon the whole Propositions of Peace, of the 20. of April, and for so happy beginning, and so good a foundation laid for the future, we heartily thank God, and do acknowledge the Zeal, Piety, and Wisdom of the Honourable Houses therein, remembering also that those Ordinances do not contain the whole model of Church-Government, and that the Houses had been pleased to express [that it cannot be expected that a perfect Rule in every particular should be settled all at once, but that there will be need of supplements, and additions, and happily of alterations in some things, as experience shall bring to light the necessity thereof] upon these Considerations as we do cheerfully consent to many material Parts of these Propositions, so we Resolve to make no let, but to give way to the sending of such other particulars therein contained, with which we are unsatisfied in the matters for the Reasons formerly Represented to both Houses, of which some still stand in force, though others of them be taken away by the new expedients, it being always understood that our not Dissenting from, nor our opposing of the sending of the Propositions as they now stand, shall be no prejudice nor impediment to all or any one of the Articles of the Solemn League and Covenant, especially to the first Article, concerning the preservation of the Reformed Religion in the Church of Scotland in Doctrine, Worship, Discipline, and Government, against our common enemies, the Reformation of Religion in the Kingdoms of England and Ireland in Doctrine, Worship, Discipline, and Government, according to the Word of God, and example of the best Reformed Churches, and the bringing of the Churches of God in the three Kingdoms to the nearest conjunction and uniformity in Religion, Confession of Faith, form of Church-Government, Directory for Worship, and Catechising; which thing both Kingdoms are by Covenant obliged sincerely and really to endeavour, and that not for a time, but constantly, so that neither of the Kingdoms can be loosed or acquitted from the most straight and solemn obligation of their continued and constant endeavouring these good ends so far as any of them is not yet attained, it being also understood that our concurrence to the sending of the Propositions shall be without prejudice to any Agreement or Treaty between the Kingdoms, and shall not infringe any engagement made to the Kingdom of Scotland, nor be any hindrance to our insisting upon the other Propositions already made known to the Houses; and it being understood that it is not our Judgement that every particular and circumstance of th●se Propositions is of so great importance to these Kingdoms, as Peace and War should depend thereupon.  
Upon these grounds which we make known only for clearing our consciences, and for discharging Ourselves in the trust put upon us, without the least thought of retarding the so much longed for Peace; We condescend and agree that the Propositions as they are now resolved upon be in the name of both Kingdoms presented to the King, whose heart we beseech the Lord wholly to incline to the Counsels of Truth and Peace.  
June 25. 1646.   

Die Veneris 26. junii, 1646.  
ORdered by the Lords in Parliament Assembled, that the marquis of Argyles Speech, with the Paper concerning the Propositions be forthwith printed and published.  
John Brown Cler. Parliamentorum.    
And at the same time with the foresaid Paper there was another Paper delivered in unto the Parliament, being a Letter from his Majesty to the marquis of Ormond, in Ireland, discharging all further Treaty with the Irish Rebels (for thus now blessed be God, His Majesty was pleased to term them, not Catholic Subjects, as formerly) and this being a business of so high and eminent concernment, I have here also thought fit to give the Reader a Copy thereof, which was as follows.  
CHARLES. REX.  

His Majesty's Letter to the marquis of Ormond.  RIght trusty, etc. Having long with much grief looked upon the sad condition which our Kingdom of Ireland hath been in these divers years through the wicked and desperate Rebellion there, and the bloody effects which have ensued thereupon, for the settling whereof we would have wholly applied ourselves, if the difference betwixt us and our subjects here had not diverted and withdrawn us, and not having been able by force (for that respect) to reduce them, we were necessitated for the present safety of our Protestant subjects there, to give you power and authority to treat with them, upon such pious, honourable, and safe grounds as the good of that our Kingdom did then require, But for many reasons too long for a Letter, We think fit to require you to proceed no farther in Treaty with the Rebels, nor to engage us upon any conditions with them after sight hereof, And having formerly ●ound such Real proofs of your ready obedience to our commands, We doubt not of your care in this; wherein our service and the good of the Protestant subjects in Ireland, is so much concerned.  
From Newcastle the 11. of June, 1646.  

The Propositions for Peace sent to the King.  And upon the 29. of this instant June, the Lords and Commons in Parliament held a serious debate and Consultation about the the time, and persons by whom to send away the Propositions for a happy Peace among us (which now they had quite finished, and as was forementioned our Dear Brethren of Scotland had fully and fairly assented unto) for his Majesty to sign and confirm unto us. And now all these late and last admirable passages of Divine provicence thus sweetly and amiably concurring to make us a most happy (o'that they may make us a most holy) people by our gracious and grateful improvement of them to the best advantage of God's glory and our best good both for Soul and body, I will now most joyfully and thankfully close up all with that of the blessed Prophet David, 
Psal. 30 11, 12  that sacred and sugared Singer of Israel. Thou O Lord, haste, for us, turned our mourning into Dancing; thou hast put off our Sackcloth, and girded as with gladness. To the end that our Glory may Sing praise to thee, and not be silent; O Lord our God we will therefore give thanks to thee for ever and ever.  
And thus, I a poor weak and most unworthy instrument, the meanest, I say and most unable of many thousands, having now, by the good hand and help of Divine providence, even by the only aid and assistance of the Lord my good God, led you on (my Dear Christian brethren) thus far in the full and fair view and perusal of this so famous and renowned history (though I confess in a very plain and unpolisht style) and in the most blessed and beautiful sight of this admirable and amiable wonder of the Burning-Bush, 
Ehen-Ezer.  hitherto Vncons●med, yea, hitherto, I say, even most miraculously prospered & preserved even to a strongly hoped period of our bloody wars, and happy enjoyment of sweet and precious Peace, I say, if now at last Pride & wanton ingratitude to God and men (I mean mainly, our Loyal and loving Brethren of Scotland) cut us not short thereof in the haven of our hoped happiness: not withstanding all the most violent flames of malice, and virulent fury of unreasonable and outrageous men, yea of such Ephesian Beasts as the holy Apostle Paul was forced to fight with for the vindication of his great Masters immaculate Cause, unsported Truth: what shall I say more unto you all, my dear Brethren, the honest and happy Readers of this honourable History, the blessed eye-witnesses, and possessors of all these rich and rare forementioned mercies? 
The summary use of all.  I will now most thankfully shut up all with a word or two (and but a brief word or two) as having in all my former parts of this Parliamentary Chronicle said so much already in this kind) of Christian Caution, 
Caution and Exhortation.  and Exhortation to you all in general, as to mine own soul in particular; First then, hath our good God out of his mere mercy and free favour and grace in Christ Jesus only, 
1 Caution.  been so bountiful unto us, a sinful Nation, as thus to load us with his love, even then when we have been loading him with our sins and provocations? Hath he thus remembered us in our low estate, as not only to let us be, as at this day, a Nation, a People; but a beloved Nation, yea even as it were a people desired? Hath the Lord not only given us our lives as a prey unto us, but also given our cruel-hearted and bloody-minded enemies, as bread for us to eat and devour? And, 
Zechar. 10. 5.  herein fulfilled and made good his Word and Promise to his people; That they shall be as mighty men which tread down their Enemies in the mire of the streets, in the battle, and that they shall fight because the Lord is with them, and that the Riders on Horses shall be confounded; Hath the Lord, I say, done all this for us to the full, and yet shall we still go on to break his Commandments, 
Ezra 9 6.  and say in our hearts, we are delivered to do all kind of wickedness and abomination? Would not the Lord than be very angry with us, till he had consumed us, so that there should be no remnant, no aescaping for us? Should we not thus too justly cause that complaint of Moses against the Children of Israel, to come fully against us. 
Deut 32. 6.  Do you thus requite the Lord, O foolish and unwise? O what will all our Victories and successes avail us, and what a most miserable Conquest will it be u●to us that all our Kingdom's enemies are conquered unto us; if our own Souls, if our own Consciences be conquered and led captive at the Devils will, by our inbred base lusts, and unconquered corruptions? O will not these, think you, gangrene our souls and bodies too, and bring upon us a far worse and Epidemical destruction both to our bodies and souls; yea, I say, to our whole Kingdom and Estates, 
jer. 37. 10.  and make our late v●nquished enemies, though thus smitten, weak and wounded, to he raised up again against us (as the Lord threatened by the Prophet) if we securely and rebelliously retain our old sins and transgressions against him? O let us then most seriously, yea, I say, frequently and servently think upon that known Caution of our most blessed Saviour himself, to the Lame man whom he had healed of an old infirmity, 
john 5. 14.  Sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee; lest having been cleansed from our former old Jesuitical and Prelatical tyrannies over our souls and consciences, and Monarchical Arbitrary oppressions and vexation● over our Estates and Liberties; lest I say, being healed and dispossessed of these Devils incarnate, we grow supine and careless, yea ungrateful and graceless, 
Mat. 12. 45.  and so God suffer those Satan's to return, who finding all both in Church and State swept and garnished with security and impiety, they enter again into our hearts and houses, with seven other Devils worse (if possible) than themselves, and then our last condition prove far worse than the former.  
Let us therefore for this purpose, 
2 Exhortation  remember our late solemn Covenant to our God (whatsoever any profane Esau's, and Sons of Belial: or deceitful hearted Sons of Schi●●● and S●●●tion impiously be●ch or broach against it) of a Nation●ll and Personal Reformation; 
Reformation both national and personal.  and let us now deal seriously (as then we seemed to promise) and be in good earnest with our God, in a speedy and effectual building of his House after the clearest Scripture manner, a●d with the purest Reformed Churches of the world. 
Building of God's house.  O therefore, that our renowned Parliament would seriously and sincerely do something herein, especially for the purging of God's House, at this time, 
Schism and Error petitioned against.  from dangerous and damnable Errors, Schisms and blasphemous Opinions of too audacious and most impudent Sectaries, who (if not timely and truly removed) will, like mortiferous gangreenes, 
The danger of it briefly described.  indeed, prodigiously ulcerate, and most pestilentially vulnerate, even to the very heart, the whole Body of Church and State; for indeed, no disease is so dangerous both to soul and body as that in Religion, which infects the soul, and offends God most of all; 
The building of God's house petitioned.  Error (I say) obstinate Error being that stiffnecked Strumpet which most odiously adulterates the Marriagebed of Faith, and causes the most dangerous divorce 'twixt Christ and his Spouse, 
Hest. 6. 3.  the Soul. O therefore I say, that our most worthy Parliamentary Patriots, the Kingdom's able Physicians, would seasonably and seriously set upon this great cure, by settling a Church-Government among us, according to the tenor of our holy League and sacred Covenant; O that these our most renowned Parliamentary Scaligers, having made that honest, righteous, and just objection or scrutiny among themselves, which Heathen Ahasuerus made to himself and his Nobles, touching noble and well-deserving Mordecay. But what honour and dignity hath been done for him? So they, but what extraordinary thing, what due dignity and honour have we done for our best-deserving good God, that hath so admirably hastened to build the House of our State and Kingdom? And would now thereupon seriously hasten effectually to build his House, 
The great fault and ●ayling of these times.  and (casting away with true Christian courage and confidence all cursed carnal pleas, and graceless and groundless false fears) trust God with the issues and effects, as all-sufficient to patronage and protect his own acceptable work (as this unquestionably is) maugre the mal●ce of malignant or fraudulent opposers whomsoever.  
Now what reasons they have hereunto, yea what grounds and encouragements beyond expression, they have extraordinarily to stimulate and stir up their hearts to this so noble and renowned a work, who (certainly) sees not, Who wilfully and wickedly blinds not his eyes? Yet notwithstanding, a little more (now at last) to rub up their memories, 
Scripture Eyesalve.  and clear up the eyes of my Christian Brethren with a little Scripture-collyrium, or Eyesalve of evidences; I shall desire the godly Reader, with pious patience, seriously to consider and peruse these few following▪ 
2 Chron. 16. 9 God's eye of providence over us.  textual testimonies. First, have not the eyes of the Lord (ever since this Parliament began) in a most eminent and evident manner) run too and fro, throughout England, Scotland, and Ireland; yea, and into France and Denmark too, to preserve us, and to prevent our enemies intended mischiefs against us, and thus, shown himself most strong and most wise in the behalf of them (though a small remnant in England, Scotland, and Ireland) whose hearts were perfect toward him? Hath not the Lord (as he promised by the Prophet) turned our days of fasting, 
Zeche. 8. 1●. Our Fasts turned into Feasts.  and of humiliation, into days of feasting and congratulation; even the fast of our first Month and Year, and the fast of our fourth and fifth month and year as I may say, to be to us his English Judah, joy and gladness, and cheerful feasts and times of great and glorious Thanksgivings; O therefore, O therefore I say, That we would cordially and constantly love the Truth and Peace. Again, hath not the Lord made good that good word of his unto us, 
Num. 23. 13.  and have we not all seen, and found, and felt to our unexpressible joy and comfort, that certainly there could be no enchantment against God's Jacob, 
No enchanment or Divination against God's Israel.  nor any Divination against his Israelites (and who are they but princely prevailers, in Prayer, and sacred supplanters of sinful enormities, some glean of both which sorts, by Christ who hath strengthened them, I doubt not but God hath found amongst us) for, even according to these times it may justly be said of Jacob and Israel, (of England and Scotland) what and how many admirable things hath God wrought for us, 
Isa 54. 17.  not suffering any weapon that was form against us to prosper, 
No weapon form against us hath prospered.  and graciously condemning every tongue that rose up in rash and wrathful judgement against us. Nay, and hath not the Lord, again, on the other side, made good his faithful promise to us his people, excellently set forth by holy Jeremy; that all they that thirsted to devour us, are themselves devoured, 
Jer. 30. 16, 17. Our devourers are devoured, and our spoilers are spoilt.  and all our adversaries, even every one of them have tasted misery; and they that spoilt us are spoiled, and all (for the most part) that preyed upon us, the Lord hath given as a prey unto us; but, hath mercifully (as the Prophet there excellently and most pertinently to our purpose, and case & condition goes on) restored health unto us, and graciously healed us of our formerly felt and feared wounds; the enemy having called and counted us outcasts. (even Traitors and Rebels) saying in scorn and derision of us, This is Zion, (these are the fasting and Praying Roundheads) whom no man seeketh after, but to deride and ruinate them. 
Ezekiel 20. 38 The rega●● Rebels purged out of the Kingdom.  Again, hath not the Lord according to his yet further most faithful promise, by his holy Prophet Ezekiel, purged out from among us the Rebels indeed, both English, Irish, French, and German Rebels, who sorely transgressed against our God; and hath forced them forth out of our Country and Kingdom, where they sojourned (witness Windebanke, Finch, Newcastle, Goring, both Father and Son, Jermine, Digby, Langdale, and the rest) and God would not let them enter into, nor abide in our now most hopeful Land of rest and peace: 
Isay 66. 5.  yea, 
The Royalists impious hypocrisy unmasked.  hath not the Lord (as he further said of them by pious Isaiah) accordingly made it good unto us? Your Brethren (the Royalists) that hated you, and struggled and strove to cast you out, and pretending (but most falsely) that it was for my name's sake, deceitfully said, Let the Lord be glorified; but this our wise, our righteous and good God hath chose appeared unto our joy, and they themselves are confounded and ashamed. All this, I say, the Lord hath done for us; all these ample and admirable testimonies we have seen and found to assure us that God is with us, 
Great encouragements for God's Children.  and therefore we ought wonderfully to be confirmed and encouraged against whatsoever men or Devils can do against us; wherefore from all these prevalent premises on our enemies, and precious promises made good to us, 
job 5. 27. Mark this O England.  we may justly say with holy Job; Lo, thus we have searched and seen; so it is, hear it (O England) and know thou it for thy good. The Lord is wise in heart, and mighty in strength; who ever hardened himself against him and hath prospered? 
Isa 19 11, 12, 13, 14.  None certainly, 
A true description of the King's Counselors.  for as the Prophet Isaiah excellently to this purpose, surely the Princes and Grandees of the world, even carnal and Atheistical machiavellian Statists are very fools, and the counsel of such wifest Counselors is but base and brutish; for (as he goes on admirably) how say ye of Pharaah (so I of Bristol, Cottington, and Digby) I am the Son of the wise, the Son of ancient Princes and Peers: But where are they now? Where are those wise men? What's become of their craftiest cursed Counsel? hence therefore we may clearly conclude with Jethro, 
Exod. 18. 11.  Moses Father in Law, and with him say most certainly, Now I know that the Lord is greater than all gods, than all the most potent and politic Peers and Potentates of the world, for in those very things wherein they dealt most proudly, 
Isa 51. 12, 13.  and lifted up themselves most superciliously, 
A just objurgation, and too true taxation on all.  he hath admirably all along been still above them; Give me leave now therefore in a word or two for conclusion, to speak plainly to any, to all of what rank, order, or condition soever they be; Who art thou (O cowardly, carnal man, so leaning on the arm of Flesh, and consulting with mere carnal reason) that thou shouldest still notwithstanding all that hath been done, and said, and seen be afraid of man that shall die; yea, thus die (as thou hast, heard and seen) with shame and obloquy; or that thou should●t dread any Son of Man which shall be made as Grass? And forgettest the Lord thy God and Maker, and hast manifested too evidently that thou fearest continually every day with strange pusilanimity, unchristianly cowardice, fond and false fears and imaginary conceited Chimeras; and all this forsooth because of the fury of the oppressor, as if he were ready to devour and destroy, and yet (saith the Lord unto thee) where is the fury of the oppressor? 
Psal. ●6. 7, 10 An exhortation to Christian courage and godly resolution.  what's become of all his brags and boastings, even to this day? O let us then put on Princely David's Christian courage and resolution, and fear and confide in the Lord alone, and with his invincible magnanimity of soul and spirit say, and say most justly, Thou, even thou alone, O Lord, art to be feared; for, who may stand in thy sight when thou art angry? For thou hast made the wrath of man (as it is at this day) to praise thee, and the remainder of his wrath thou hast wonderfully restrained, as is most evident to all 〈◊〉 eyes and understanding. O therefore I say, again and again to our Honourable Parliament, and reverend▪ Assembly, to the noble City of London, and our famous Army, since we have seen with our eyes, 
Exod. 19 4, 5.  as well as by the hearing of our ears, what the Lord our God hath done to our unreasonable and incorrigible enemies on the one side; and how he hath most graciously borne us, as it were on Eagles wings, and brought us (in his infinite mere mercy) thus near unto himself; on the other side. 
Break off from sin.  O therefore I say to myself; to all; O that we would now at length obey his voice indeed, O that we would now break off from our provoking sins, and most seriously break our hearts for our sins, with that godly sorrow which is unto Repentance never to be repent of: And that we would cordially▪ and conscientiously remember and keep our solemn 〈…〉 Covenant made with our God, 
Remember our Covenant.  and with one another; and with a speedy and pious resolution would pay our vows, 
B●●ld God's House.  especially that, to build up God's House, to set up a Church-Government most substantially; that is, as near as may be in a scriptural Model, 
Love our Brethren of Scotland.  and therein lovingly to join with our most loving Brethren of Scotland, most worthy perpetually to be embraced by us, with all due expressions of most cordial love and endless amity; 
Our Brethren of Scotland were the main mean; of procuring this present Parliament. Exod. 19 5.  as having been (under God) the main means, if not, only instruments of purchasing and procuring for us this present precious Parliament; and so consequently, of all our had and hoped happiness: and let us for shame, oh for foul shame let us leave off our unchristian, our ungrateful, our ungracious biting of them, and snarling at one another; thankfully and religiously labouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace and pure Love; for then, oh then, and not till then the Lord will certainly make us a peculiar Treasure to himself, above all the people of the world. To this, say Amen, O Lord, I pray thee, by the work of thy Spirit of Grace in Christ Jesus; and let All that read and hear it together with Me, from the bottom and root of their hearts and souls, say unto it, Amen, and Amen.   

A Convenient Corollary pertinent to the Premises; OR, Angliae Menses Mirabiles, England's Marvellous Months.  
ANd, now, that the Reader may, (for his yet more clear light and delight, as it were, Uno oculo et intuitu) See and admire the resplendent lustre of our late most Marvellous Months, and therein, the admirable goings and doings of our Wonderworking God, in the latter end of the last Summer and this last Winter, 1645. I have here, I say, for God's greater glory and the Reader more full content and Satisfaction, collected and set down together, an on ocular-Summarie and brief Map, as it were, all the Towns, Castles, Garrisons or Strong Holds taken from the Enemy: And all the field fights and famous Victories obtained, since the happy setting forth of the greatly despised and vilipended New-Modell'd-Armie under the victorious Conduct and Command of ever to be renowned Sir Thomas Fairefax, his Excellency, the most Successful Captain General of all the Parliaments forces over the whole kingdom. All atcheived within the space of 8. or 9 Months, or a very little more beginning from Midd-June. 1645.  

Taken from the Enemy since Nasbies' most famous victory. 1645.  
1. LEicester Town and Castle. p. 171.  
2. Ilchester Garrison. p. 175.  
3. Stoksey-Castle. p. 177.  
4. Caus-Castle. p. 177.  
5. Heighworth-Garrison. p. 180  
6. Carleisle Town and Castle p. 186  
7. Sharward●n-Castle. p. 187  
8. Langport-Garrisons. p. 190  
9 Burrough-Garrison. p. 194  
10. Bridgewater Town and Castle. p. 197  
11. Cannon-Froom-Garrison. p. 230.  
12. Pontifract-Castle. p. 201  
13 Scarborough Castle p. 202  
14 Rabbi Castle. p. 203  
15 Bath Town and Castle. p. 203  
16 Chadwick Garrison. p. 203  
17 Sherburn Town and Castle. p. 255  
18 Portshed strong Fort at Bristol. p. 260  
19 Nunnie Castle. p. 260  
20 Bristol Town and Castle. p. 265  
21 Cardiff Town and Castle. p. 276  
22 Devizes Town and Castle. p. 276  
23 Lacock Garrison, p. 277  
24 Almost all Pembrook-shire reduced to the Parliament. p. 277  
25 Barkley Castle. p. 283  
26 Farleigh Castle. p. 286  
27 Sandal Castle. p. 286  
28 Winchester Town and Castle. p. 287  
29 Basin strong Garrison. p. 287  
30 Langford Garrison. p. 296  
31 Chepstow Town and Castle. p. 292  
32 Dawley Castle.  
33 Moorton-Corbet House, a strong Garrison. p.  
34 Rooton Castle.  
35 Linsill Manor Garrison.  
36 Apley-house Garrison. p. 115  
37 Tiverton Town and Castle. p. 300  
38 Carmarthen Town and Castle. p. 302  
39 Monmouth Town and Castle. p. 302  
40 Shelford Garrison p. 313  
41 Picton Castle.  
42 Abarashwait Garrison. p. 315  
43 Worton Garrison. p. 316  
44 Wiverton Garrison. p. 316  
45 Welbeck Garrison: p. 316  
46 Boulton Castle. p. 318  
47 Beiston Castle. p.  
48 Haverford West. p. 255  
49 Latham house a strong Garrison. p. 329  
50 Fulford Garrison. p. 329  
51 Hereford Town and Castle. p. 330  
52 Callantine Garrison. p. 337  
53 The happy relief of Taunton a third time equivalent to the taking of a Town. p. 187  
54 Carew Castle. p. 95  
55 Skipton Castle. p. 337  
56 Embleden Castle p.  
57 Cannon Tean, a strong Fort p. 336  
58 Canterbury Fort. p. 340  
59 St Budeaux Church. p. 341  
60 Bovie-Tracie. p. 341  
61 Ilminster. p. 341  
62 Ashburton. p. 341  
63 Totnes. p. 342  
64 Okehampton. p. 342  
65 Plymouth totally relieved. p. 348  
66 Sir Francis Drakes house a strong Hold. p. 348  
67 Dartmouth Town and Castle. p. 353  
68 Pouldram Castle. p. 358  
69 Westchester Town and Castle, p 361  
70 Holt-Church Garrison.  
71 Belvoir Castle. p. 361  
72 Torrington Garrison. p, 366  
73 Cardiff Town retaken and the Castle preserved.  
74 Corfe Castle. p. 372  
75 Lanceston Garrison. p. 374  
76 Abington again admirably preserved. p. 375  
77 Ashbie De La Zouch. p. 378  
78 Bodman a strong Garrison. p▪ 379  
79 Listithiel a Garrison. p. 379  
80 Ware Bridge a Garrison. p 379  
81 Mount Edgecombe a Garrison. p. 383  
82 Castle-Dennis a Garrison.  
83 Salt-Ash a Garrison. p.  
84 Saint Cullumb a Garrison. p. 388  
85 Truro a Garrison. p. 400  
86 Maus Castle. p. 395  
87 Penrin a Garrison. p.  
88 St. Ellens a Garrison. p.  
89 Flamouth. p. 395  
90 Foy a strong Garrison. p. 391  
91 Shruardon Castle. p. 296  
92 Gooderich Castle. p. 397  
93 Inch-house a Garrison. p. 402  
94 Hilford Castle. p. 401  
95 Pouldram strong Fort. p. 402  
96 Higharchall a strong Garrison. p. 403  
97 Bridgenorth Town. p. 403  
98 Portland Castle. p. 404  
99 Exmouth Fort. p. 404  
100 Dennington Castle. p. 404  
101 Ruthin Castle. p. 408  
102 The City of Exeter with all its strong Forts. p 411  
103 Barnstable Town and Castle. p. 412  
104 St. michael's Mount. p. 412  
105 Titbury Castle. p. 413  
106 Aburisthwait Castle. p. 412  
107 Dunster Castle. p 412  
108 Woodstock Garrison. p 413  
109 Bridgenort● Castle. p. 413  
110 Newark a strong Garrison. p. 419  
111 Banbury Castle. p. 421  
112 Hartlebury Castle. p 422  
113 Ludlow Town and Castle. p. 422  
114 Muschamp-bridge and Fort. p. 327  
115 All Pembrook-shire reduced. p. 277  
116 Padstow in Cornwall. p. 386  
117 Bostol Garrison. p. 443  
118 Carnarvan Town and Castle. p. 443  
119 Dudley Castle. p 444  
Beaumorris Town and Castle. p. 446  
120 Oxford. p 446   

A Catalogue of all the famous Defeats, or Field-fights, and glorious Victories obtained by the Parliaments Forces since the midst of June. 1645.  

1 THe most famous set Battle, and glorious Victory, by God's great mercy obtained at Nasebie. p. 159  
2 A brave Defeat given to the Enemy at Kiddarminster in Worcestershire. p.  
3 A brave Defeat given to the enemies on the Welsh side of the River Dee. p.  
4 The famous Victory obtained through fire and water, over goring forces at Langport in the West. p. 190  
5 The Western Clubmen beaten out of the Field upon Hambleton hill, by the Parliaments forces. p. 253  
6 A brave Defeat given to the enemy near Stamford in Lincolnshire. p. 251  
7 The brave Victory obtained over our Welsh enemies at Coleby-moore in Wales, near Haverford west. p. 255  
8 A brave Defeat given to the enemy near Redding. p. 261  
9 The great and most famous Victory obtained by our dear Brethren of Scotland over Montrosse. p. 270  
10 A brave Defeat given to the enemy at Kiddarminster. p. 276  
11 The famous Victory obtained against the King's Forces (going to relieve Chester) at Houten-Health. p. 278  
12 A brave Defeat given to the enemy near Oxford. p. 286  
13 A brave Defeat given to the enemies at Farringdon, by Abbington forces. p. 294  
14 A brave Defeat given to the enemy's forces of Banbury, conducting Rupert and Maurice to Newark. p. 296  
15 The famous Victory obtained over the Lord Digby and Sir Mar. Langdale, at Sherburn in Yorkshire. p. 297  
16 A brave Defeat given to the enemy (near Denbigh Castle) intending to relieve Chester. p. 304  
17 A brave Defeat given to the enemy at Holt-bridge. p. 305  
18 Another famous Defeat given to Digby and Langdale, marching into Scotland to Montrosse. p. 306  
19 A third shattering and spoiling of Digbies scattered Forces, till they were quite brought to nothing. p. 314  
20 A brave Defeat given to the enemy near unto Cannon Froom. p. 318  
21 A very brave Defeat given to the Lord Ashton, wherein himself was slain. p. 320  
22 A brave Defeat given to the enemy in Gloucestershire, wherein that French Renegado Major Deut was slain. p. 324  
23 A brave Field-Victory obtained over the enemy (besides the taking of the Garrison) at Bovie-Tracie p. 341  
24 A brave Defeat given to the enemy at Wallingford Garrison by Abbington forces. p. 352  
25 A brave Defeat given to the enemy at Cark, near unto Stafford. p. 358  
26 Plymouth relieved, and totally unbesieged and set at liberty, with a brave Victory. p. 348  
27 A brave Defeat given to the enemy at Ashby De la Zouch. p. 104 & 363  
28 A brave Victory obtained by our renowned General Sir Thomas Fairfax, at Torrington, in the West. p. 365  
29 A brave Victory obtained by Major General Laughorne at Cardiff. p. 370  
Abbington most fiercely assaulted, and bravely defended and preserved. p. 375  
A brave Defeat given to the enemy at Wareham. p. 175  
A brave Defeat given to the enemy in Cheshire. p. 175  
A brave Defeat given to the enemy by Colon. Venables, in Cheshire. p. 180  
A brave Defeat given to the enemy near Farrindon. p. 406  
30 A brave Defeat given to the enemy by Colonel Moor. p. 382  
31 A brave Defeat given to the enemy at St. Cullumb in the West. p. 388  
32 Sir William Vaughan well beaten by Captain Ashley, and the Committee of Shrewsburies' brave activity. p. 396  
33 The famous Fight and glorious Victory obtained against Sir Jacob Ashley. p. 397  
34 A brave Defeat given to the King's Horse near Farringdon. p. 294  
35 A brave Defeat given to Denbigh Forces by Colonel Mi●on. p. 409  
36 A brave Defeat given to the Raglanders by Sir Trevor Williams. p. 410   
And yet to make the work of the Lord more excellent and admirable unto our eyes and hearts; I have here also though it very pertinent to the close of this our most famous History, and Parliamentary Chronicle, to give the Reader another Ocular Map, and summary sight of all (as near as possible I could) the Earls, Lords, Knights, Colonels, Lieutenant Colonels, Serjeant-Majors, Majors, Captains, and Gentlemen of worth and quality (to go no lower, lest we should run Ad infinitam) slain by the hand of God's wrath in fight, and cut off by the hand of Justice for Treason against the State; on the King's Party, since this most unhappy and unnatural Civil War began among us, in this our sinful (and therefore thus distressed) Kingdom; besides, very many such others as could not, nominatim, be yet made known unto us.   
Psalm 58. 10, 11. The Righteous shall rejoice when he seeth God's vengeance on the wicked, and shall wash his feet in their blood; so that a man shall say, verily there is a God that Judgeth the earth. 

The Slain on the King's side.  
1 THe Earl of Lindsey, the Lord General of the King's Army that appeared in the Field at first against the Parliament. Part 2. Page 197  
2 The Lord George Stuart, being Lord of Aubigniè in France. p. 2, p. ibidem  
3 The Lord John Stuart. p. 3 p. 190  
4 The Lord Bernhard Stuart, Earl of Litchfield. p. 4. p. 281  
All these three brave young Lords, being of the blood Royal, and all three brothers to the Duke of Lenox.  
5 The Earl of Northampton, p. 2. p. 287  
6 The Earl of Denbigh, p. 2. p. 296  
7 The Earl of Carnarvan, p. 2. p. 420  
8 The Earl of Sunderland, p. 2. p. ibid.  
9 The Earl of Kingston, p. 3 p. 7.  
10 The Earl of Strafford beheaded for Treason on the Tower-hill. p. 1. p. 31  
11. The Lord Grandison. p. 2 p. 420  
12 The Lord Faukland. p. 2 p. ibid.  
13 The Lord Carey, Son to the Earl of Monmouth. p. 3. p. 277  
14 The Lord Ashton. p. 4 p. 320  
15 The marquis of Viville a French Lord. p. 2. p. 415  
16 The Arch-Prelate of Canterbury beheaded for Treason, on Tower-hill. p. 4. p. 86  
17 General Cavendish, p. 3 p. 9  
18 General Mynne. p. 4. p. 4  
19 Sir Edward Varney. p. 2 p. 195  
20 Sir John Harper. p. 2. p. 243  
21 Sir Bevill Greenvill, Son to the marquis of Hartfort. p. 2 p. 381  
22 Sir George Bowles. p. 3. p. 47  
23 Sir William Wentworth, brother to the Earl of Strafford. p. 3. p. 144  
24 Sir Francis Da●res, near kinsman to the Lord Dacres, p. 3 p. ibid.  
25 Sir William Lambton. p. ib  
26 Sir Marmaduke Loudson, p. ibid.  
27 Sir Thomas Metton, p. ibid.  
28 Mounsieur Saint Paul, a French Gentleman. p. ibid.  
29 Sir Richard Goodhill. ib.  
30 Sir Alexander Carew, beheaded for Treason on the Tower-hill. p. 4. p. 86  
31 Sir John Hotham beheaded also for Treason on Tower hill. p. 4. p. 86  
32 Sir Henry Gage. p. 4. p  
33 Sir William Crosts. p. 4 p. 178  
34 Sir Thomas Nott. p. 4. p. 180  
35 Sir Owen. p. 4 p. 122  
36 Sir Brian Stapleton. p. 4. p  
37 Sir Francis Carnabie. p. 4 p.  
38 Sir Richard Hutton. p. 4 p.  
39 Colonel Monroe. p. 2. p. 19●  
40 Col. Wane. p. 3. p. 144  
41 Col. Ewers. Nephew to the Lord Ewers. p. ibid.  
42 Col. Roper, brother to the Lord Baltingglasse. p. ibid.  
43 Col. Slingsby, Son to Sir William Slingsby. p. ibid.  
44 Col. Fenwick, eldest Son to Sir John Fenwick. p. ibid.  
45. Col. Prideaux. p. ibid.  
46 Col. Atkins. p. ibid.  
47 Col. Marrow. p. 4. p. 11  
48 Col. Baynes. p. 4. p. 16  
49 Col. Conyers. p. 4. p. 16  
50▪ General goring brother. p. 4. p. 59  
51. Col. Houghton, Son to Sir Gilb. Houghton. p. 3. p. 144  
52 General goring Quartermaster Gen. of horse. p. 4. p  
53 Gen. goring Quartermaster of foot. p. 4. p  
54 Col. Phillips. p. 4. p. 123  
55 Lieutenant Col. Ward. p. 2 p. 381  
56 Lieut. Col. Howard. p. 2 p. ibid.  
57 Lieut. Col. Bowles. p. 3 p. 97  
58 Lieut. Col. Lisle. p. 3 p. 144  
59 Lieut. Col. Stonywood. p. 3 p. 16  
60 Seajeant Major Beaumond. p. 2. p. 263  
61 Ser. Major Purvey. p. 2 p. 269  
62 Ser. Major Smith. p. 2 p. 3. 10  
63 Ser. Maj. Lower. p. 2. p. 381  
64 Ser. Maj. Wells. p. 2. p. 405  
65 The Major of Preston, Mr. adam's. p. 2. p. 269  
Major Heskith. p. 4. p. 16  
67 Major trevilian. p. 4. p  
68 Major Hatton Farmar. p. 4. p 94  
69 Major Pilkington. p. 4 p. 138  
70 Major Duet. p. 4. p. 324  
71 Major Heynes. p. 4. p  
72 Major Pollard. p. 4. p. 356  
73 Captain Wrey. p. 2. p  
74 Captain Bins. p. 2. p 1  
75 Captain Houghton. p. 2 p. 69  
76 Captain He●ham beheaded on the Tower-hill. p. 4. p  
77 Captain Baggot. p. 4. p  
78 Captain James p. 2 p. 381  
79 Capt. Cornisham. p. 2 p. 110  
80 Capt. Plunket. p. 3. p. 110  
81 The King's Standard-bearer at that Fight where and when the Earl of Northampton was slain. p. 2. p. 288  
82 Sir John Smith, brother to the Lord Carington. p. ibib  
83 Dr. Weston a Physician. p. 2. p. 263  
84 An Earl, or such like eminent Personage found slain in the field at Nasebie fight, with a Star and a red Cross upon his Coat, but his name or title not known. p. 4. p. 163, 164  
85 Major Threave. p. 4. p  
86 Captain Fry. p. 4. p  
87 Col. Billingsly. p. 4 p. 403  
88 Capt. Cottingham. p. 4 p. 409  
89 Major Caft. p. 291  
90 Six Priests slain in Bazing House. p. 291  
91 Lieut. Col. Gardiner. p. 4 p. 123   
Besides many, yea very many more found sla●ne on the places and ground where they fought, but not named or known who they were; very many buried by the enemies themselves▪ in the places where they were slain; and very many thrown into rivers and secretly conveyed away out of the Fields, 
One hundred and forty Cart-loads of dead and wounded at Newberry fight, some at Brainford, at Dorchester and Causham, at Marston-moore.  where they fought before their flight, and total routs, at least 140. Cart-loads (as was credibly related) of slain and sorely wounded carried to Oxford from Newburies' first fight; many Cart-loads carried away, and many buried in Ditches at Brainford fight, many also at Dorchester and Causham fights near Oxford; many at Marstonmoores' famous fight, and very many in many other places, too tedious here to recite, yea impossible almost to be recited; besides such as being left behind in the sields where they fought, who being stripped appeared plainly to be Gentlemen, and men of extraordinary worth and quality, both by their pure white skins, fine shirts, and very rich clothes, but could not otherwise be known unto us. And let the intelligent and judicious Reader take this observation from this short Catalogue of the (thus) slain on the King's party, even of those, partly ignorant, and partly malignant enemies and opposers of God and his most righteous Cause, defended by the Parliament, viz. To see and take notice of, especially the just revenging hand of God upon our Kingdom's Nobility and Gentry, who having been the main malignant and even Atheistical enemies of Religion, of the power of godliness, and of a pure and thorough Reformation, all along, even ever since the first Infant Reformation in Queen Elizabeth's days of ever blessed memory; I say, over the whole Kingdom even to these present deplorable times. God hath therefore now at length mightily met with them thus, by the Sword of War, whom ('tis more than probable) the Sword of Justice, in a Legal way, would hardly have, reached (or but sprincklingly and partially, for fear or affection, or such like 〈◊〉- respects, as 'tis much to be feared) and brought to severe (yet most just) death and condign punishment; Of which most righteous and remarkable hand of God, more, (yea most) immediately (and almost miraculously) cutting off many of these most impious and audacious malignant and Atheistical enemies of the Parliamentary Cause, even in the very act of their desperate and devilish malignity against the same; whosoever would see more, they may be most abudantly satisfied, even to admiration and astonishment, in my First and Second part of A Looking-glass for Malignants, 
A Looking-glass for Malignants.  so entitled, printed by Mr. John Rothwell Stationer, at the Sign of the Sun in Paul's Churchyard in London, Anno 1643. and 1645. The like examples whereunto, both for manner, number, and time, no Age or History (I am confident) is able to produce, in any part of the world from Adam to this day.  
And here also I conceive it cannot be improper to our present History, or impertinent to the yet further manifestation of God's due glory in his work of Justice upon the enemies of his Truth, and the Kingdom's welfare, to give the Reader a brief Catalogue of all, or the most of those Court-Grandees, and rotten-hearted Royalists, who like so many Rats and Mice, fearing the old house of their Traitorous Designs, was now ready to fall upon their own heads, to their own ruin, even that the hand of Justice would now lay hold on them, and pay them home for all their formerly purposed and practised mischiefs, for the ruinating of the true Protestant Religion, and their Mother-Kingdomes precious proprieties, being now, I say, by God's Justice on them, made Magor-Missabib (jer. 20. 3.) a terror to themselves and their accursed Copesmares, and being stung with selfe-guilt of Conscience and principally to avoid the avengeing stroke of Justice, and partly also to practice and perpetrate more mischief (if possible it might be) against the Kingdom abroad, as they had done at home; Now therefore I say, like so many viperous Vermin, or naughty Nauseous obstructions upon the stomach of their Native Nation, as most traitorous Fugitives, they fled away, being as it were disgorged and spewed out of the Kingdom, as baneful and burdensome thereunto, and forced to fly into foreign parts, to prolong a base and most shameful life, and (without Repentance) to die a most ignoble and desperate death; the names of whom as near as I could, I have here I say collected together, and were as followeth.   
Jeremy 46. 15. Why are thy valiant men swept away? they stood not because the Lord did drive them away. 

A Catalogue of the names of our Court Fugitives, and most pernicious Catiline's, who fled, and were forceably frighted out of the Kingdom for fear of the stroke of Justice.  
1 QVene Mary herself, the fautresse and fomenter of all the miseries of the three Kingdoms; next to our sins.  
2 The Lord Goring Senior.  
3 Sir john Finch, than Lord chief Justice of the Common Pleas.  
4 Sir Francis Windebanke, principal Secretary to the State  
5 The Lord George Digby, who afterward ventured to come back again, but since that flew into Ireland.  
6 The Earl of Yarmouth, Henry jermine.  
7 The Lord Percy.  
8 The marquis of Newcastle.  
9 The Lord Widdrington.  
10 Sir Hugh Cholmley.  
11 The Lord Goring junior, General of the King's Forces in the West.  
12 General Hinderson, then lately before Governor of Newarke.  
13 Master Wat. Mountag●e, afterward venturing home disguisedly, apprehended and imprisoned in the Tower.  
14 Prince Charles.  
15 Sir john (alias) Lord Culpepper.  
16 The Earl of Huntingdon.  
17 The Lord of Loughborough  
18 The Earl of Northampton.  
19 Sir Richard (alias Skellum) Greenvile.  
20 Sir Nicholas Crispe.  
21 Sir Ralph (alias Lord) Hopton.  
22 The Lord Wentworth.  
23 The Lord Capell.  
24 Sir Endymion Porter.  
25 Major General Taplane, or Laplane, and very many Officers and Gentry of quality that went away with him.  
26 Sir William Neave of the Heralds of Arms Officers.  
27 Master Ashburnham.   
And now also, that the Reader (yea even Malignant Momus himself) may see my faithful impartiality in this works, and most renowned History, I have here thought fit by way of Antithests, or Opposition, to set down and show forth to open view, a most clear demonstration of Gods most gracious and favourable dealing with the pious Propugnators of his most just Cause, even the precious Patriots of their Religion and Country's Liberties, in collecting (as truly and faithfully as I was able) a Catalogue of the most eminent Persons and Commonders on the Parliaments Party, also (as I have done on the Kings) who (in this, the Kingdom's Common calamity) have been taken away (out of this world of wretchedness and valley of tears) by the Sword of the enemy, and so have as it were passed over by that sharp bridge, to their long looked for, and heartily hoped for heavenly Cana●n.   


The most eminent Persons slain on the Parliaments Party since the beginning of these unhappy Civil Wars.  
1 THe Lord St. john, Part 2 Page 198  
2 The Lord Brooke, p. 2 p. 272  
3 Sir William Fairfax, brother to the most noble and renowned Lord Fairfax, p. 4. p. 33  
4 Sir john Meldrum, p. 4. p  
5 Major General Charles Fairfax, Son to the aforesaid noble Lord Fairfax, and brother to our present most renowned General Sir Thomas Fairfax, slain at Marston-moore fight.  
6 Colonel Essex, p. 2. p. 198  
7 Col. Hampden. p. 2. p  
8 Col. Tucker, p. 2. p. 418  
9 Lieut. Col. Ramsey, p. 2  
10 Sergeant Major Quarles, p. 2. p. 216  
11 Major Stawham, a brave Scottish Gent. p. 2. p. 380  
12 Major Fitz-Simons, p. 4. p  
13 Major Bradbury, p. 4▪ p  
14 Major jackson, p. 4. p. 123  
15 Captain Lacis, p. 2. p. 216  
16 Cap. Lister, p. 2. p. 230  
17 Cap. Nuttie, p. 2. p. 309  
18 Cap. Massy, p. 2. p. 410  
19 Cap. Hunt, p. 2. p. ibid.  
20 Cap. Oglesby. p. 2. p. 221  
21 Cap. Williams, p. 2. p. 267  
22 Cap. Pew, p. 3. p. 278  
23 Master Hugh Popham, p. 3 p. 303  
24 Major Haynes. p. 4. p. 341  
25 Cap. Dove, p. 4. p. 257  
26 Lieut, Col. Ingoldsby. p. 4 p. 401  
27 Cap. Allen. p. 295  
28 Major Francis Sydenham, p. 119  
29 Col. john Gunter.   
Some few more ('tis probable) there might be; but I profess ingeniously, and most sincerely, not one more as yet come to my knowledge, or spontaneously pretermitted by me, in my most sedulous search over the whole Four Parts of this our Parliamentary Chronologie, which I have diligently done, as well for satisfaction to the honest-hearted Readers, touching the slain (I say) on our side, as those on the enemy's side; in which two so vastly discrepant and largely unequal Catalogues, both for number and quality (though, ours, I confess, especially considering some of them, as most pious Saints and precious Patriots, far transcended the very best of the enemies, for spiritual weight and worth) the udicious and impartial religious Reader may see, by comparing them both together, how the Lord our most righteous and gracious God hath put a difference between the precious and the vile; and yet manifesting in some measure (for just Causes best known to his own unsearchable wisdom; and I am sure, for the best good of his belovedones every way) that as touching the outward stroke of death, I say, in a Common calamity, it happeneth to the good as to the bad; and how dyeth the wise man, but even as the fool? as wise King Solomon witnesseth, Ecclesiastes, 2. 15, 16.  
Note also yet once again (good Reader) for the yet more remarkable manifestation of God's righteousness and mercy, in putting another most notable difference between the Army of his enemies, and the Army of his Saints and Servants, fight his battles) that as was touched before, and shown in the Catalogue of the slain on the Kings fide) in the very first set battle, and field fight that was fought by the enemy against the Parliament, which was at Keinton, or Edge-hill; the King's first great Lord General of all his Forces, the Earl of Lindsey, who should have been the great Atlas, and Hercule in-upholder of the Kings so oft pretended and protested just Cause was one of the first that was slain, in that first famous Fight; whereas, both in that renowned Victory, and in all the progress of these bloody Broils, and most uncivil Civil Wars over the whole Kingdom; even I say, from that first Fight to this day, both our most renowned Generals, I mean his Excellency the Right Honourable Lord General, Robert Earl of Essex, and the renowned General, his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, that now is, have both of them come off hitherto with abundance of honour and renown, not only free from death, but also (ever blessed be the Lords wonderful mercy in it) not so much as touched with the least wound or hurt on their bodies, for aught that ever I yet heard to this present day. The like also we may most happily and faithfully say of his Excellency renowned General Lesley, Earl of Leven, Lord General of the Forces of our loving and loyal Brethren of Sc●tland; the virtuous and Victorious General of the forces of the Associated Counties, North-easterly, I mean the most noble Earl of Manchester, and the thrice noble and renowned General of our Northern forces in Yorkshire, the valiant and victorious Lord Fairfax; in which remarkable mercy, and (me thinks) most excellent and eminent observation; and for all which so rich, so rare and singularly sweet & free mercies, and most admirable dispensations of Gods wonderworking wisdom, mercy, and justice, power, and protection over us, and thus manifested to and for us (a wicked and worthless Nation, a sinful and provoking people) Blessing, Honour, Glory, and Power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the Throne, and unto the Lamb, for ever and ever, Revel. 5. 13. Amen, and Amen.    

A Table of all the most material Passages mentioned in this Fourth Part of The Parliamentary Chronicle: And here I desire the Reader to take notice, that all the Forts, Towns, Castles, and Garrisons taken since Nasebie Fight are to be found in the particular Catalogue of them before.  

A.  
ADvance of the Earl of Man●hester from York. p. 6  
Our formidable Army coop● up in the West. p. 18  
●ur Army plotted against in Cornwall. p. 21  
Ammunition safely conveyed to O●westree. p. 22  
A Commitiee for the Army appointed. p. 36  
An ignoble Act of the Kings in Cornwall. p. 38  
Array-men in the North surprised p. 39  
Augmentation of Ministers means. p. 41  
Sir ' Antheny Ashley-Cooper storms Sir John Strangeways house. p. 67  
Captain Allen beats the enemy. p. 251  
Sudden alteration of things in Scotland. p. 270  
Alderman Adam's chosen Lord Mayor of London. p. 282  
Abbington Forces beat the enemy. p. 93  
Assembly of Divines at Westminster. p. 319  
The Lord Ashton beaten and slain. p. 320  
The Army new Modelled. p. 97  
Ashbie Cavaliers sound beaten at Cole-orton. p. 104  
Apsley-house taken. p. 115  
Activity of Abbington. p. 126, 352, & 132.  
Our Armies prosperous proceedings in the West. p.  
Assizes of Oyer and Terminer revived. p. 364  
Admiralty of the Sea taken into consideration. p. 143  
A brave defeat given to the enemy at Axminster. p. 70  
Our Armies good success in Cornwall. p. 378  
The answer of Sir Thomas Fairfax to Hoptons' demands. p. 393  
Our Armies march East●●rd out of Cornwall. p. 400  
Prosperous Affairs in Scotland. p. 39  
Prosperous Affairs in the North. p. 3●  
Abbingtons' prosperous Affairs against their adversaries. p. 28  
The marquis of Argyles Speech concerning Propositions for Peace. p. 4●●   

B.  
BOulsover Castle taken. p. ●  
Sir William Brereton beats the enemy at Tarvin. p. 11  
Sir William Brereton beats the enemy at Malpasse. p. 16  
The enemy bravely beaten at Be●sley Sconce. p. 35  
The blessing of him that dwelled in the Bush seen in the West. p. 39  
The enemy beaten at Beechley. p. 42  
Dr. Bastwick relieved in Prison, and released out of Prison. p. 45  
Dr. Bastwicks' just praise. p. ibid.  
The enemy bravely beaten at Bever Valo. p. 61  
Sir Thomas Fairfax comes before Bristol. p. 260  
The enemy beaten at Bishops-Castle in Shropshire. p. 262  
The enemy beaten at Bridge-north. p. 268  
The enemy bravely beaten at Banbury. p. 29●  
Blood of Germany. p. 322  
Brecknock in Wales submits to the Parliament. p. 328  
Sir William Breretons brave Victory near Chester. p. 97  
Major Brownes brave services about Oxford. p. 108  
Bleching-house surrendered. p. 141  
Major Gen. Brownes brave defeat given to the enemy about Oxford. p. 141  
A brave Victory at Brampton-Bush. p. 142  
Major General Browne, and Major General Cronwell compared to David and Jonathan. p. 151   

C.  
THe King's cruel Counsel of War resolution against our Forces in Cornwall. p. 19  
Cornishmens' cruelty. p. 20  
Tender Consciences regarded in Parliament. p. 29  
A Committee to order our Army. p. 36  
Colonel Ceeleyes brave exploits. p. 55  
Earl of Cleveland taken Prisoner. p. 59  
Col. Cook taken Prisoner. p. 74  
C●owland taken. p. ●●  
Conspiracies of the enemies discovered. p. ●●  
Cumhire-Abbey in Wales taken. p. 83  
Common Prayer-book abolished. p. 86  
Cardigan Town and Castle taken. p. 8●  
Kings Commissioners taken at Shaftsbury. p. 252  
Sir Alexander Carew beheaded. p. 86  
Canterbury's Archprelates Condemnation. p. 86  
●●men routed. p. 353  
Col. Cromwell's valour. p. 253  
Chester Suburbs won. p. 273  
Col. Copleyes brave Victory at Sherburne in Yorkshire. p. 297  
Canterbury's Arch-Prelate beheaded. p. 92  
Col. Crafords good service. p. 98. & p. 116  
Compton-house bravely assaulted. p. 99  
The happy concurrence of both Houses of Parliament. p. 127  
Cambridge highly privileged. p. 135  
The Clemency of the noble General. p.  
Collections in Churches for Chester. p. 364  
Court of Wards Voted down. p. 369  
The enemy beaten at Chester. p. 157  
Cornwall's danger. p. 378  
Cornwall's Gentry come in to the Parliament. p. 383  
The King's Cabinet of Letters taken at Nasebie fight, sent to the Parliament, and read. p. 175  
Care taken for choosing good Officers in London. p. 82  
Mr. Case began the monthly Morning Prayers at London. p. 207  
Three Commissions presented to the Parliament from Bridge-water. p. 201  
Commissioners sent to Scotland. p. 190  
A Committee for the Scots Army. p. 190  
Clubmen in the Well. p. 201  
Clubmen come in to the Parliament. p. 196   

D.  
A Brave Defeat given to the enemy at Walch-poole. p. 5  
A brave defeat given to the enemy by Col. Middleton. p. 9  
Col. Doddington takes the Lord Oglesby prisoner. p. 11  
A brave defeat given to the enemy by Sir William Brereton. p. 11  
A de●eat given to P. Rupert. p. 11  
A brave defeat given to the enemy by Sir J●hn Meldrum. p. 12  
A brave defeat given to the enemy by Col. Rudgely. p. 22  
A brave defeat given to the enemy by Sir Thomas Middleton. p. ●●  
A famous defeat given to the enemies at Mountgomery Castle. p. 30. & ●●  
A brave defeat given to the enemy at Helmsley Castle, p. 6●  
A brave defeat given to the enemy in Lincolnshire. p. 70  
A brave defeat given to the enemy at Salisbury. p. 74  
A brave defeat given to the enemy at Sedbury. p. 76  
A brave defeat given to the enemy by Col. Holborn in the West. p. 77  
A brave defeat given to the enemy at Tong Castle. p. 84  
Directions for Worshipestablished. p. 85  
A famous defeat given to the enemy by Major Gen. Laughorne. p. 255  
Sir Lewis Dives brought prisoner to the Parliament. p. 259  
A brave defeat given to the enemy near Reading. p. 261  
A brave defeat given to the King's Horse at Kiddarminster. p. 276  
Lord Digbies Letters taken at Sherburne in Yorkshire, read in Par. p. 303  
The Demands of Sir Ralph Hopton. p. 392  
A Declaration of the Knights, Gentry, etc. of Glamorgan-shire. p. 317  
A brave defeat given to Col. Gerrard before Cardigan in Wales. p. 104  
A brave defeat given to the enemy at Heightly-house. p. ●08  
A brave defeat given to the enemy near Dennington. p. 111  
A brave defeat given to Skellum Greenvile at Plymouth. p. 111  
A brave defeat given to Prince Maurice at Holt-bridge. p. 122  
A brave defeat given to the enemy by Sir William Waller. p. 123  
The enemy beaten at the Devizes by Sir William Waller. p. 125  
The danger of Treaties with Malignants. p. 344  
The King's Declaration to 〈◊〉 in Ireland. p. 346  
A brave defeat given to the enemy a 〈◊〉. p. 136  
A Ship taken at Dartmouth. p. 359  
A brave defeat given to P. Maurice in Worcestershire. p. 137  
Divers brave defeats given to the enemy about Oxford. p. 140  
The danger and deliverance of noble Col. massy. p. 144  
A brave defeat given to the enemy at Langford-house in Hampshire. p. 153  
A brave defeat given to the enemy at Hougham-house. p. 157  
A Dunkirk Frigate taken by our ships. p. 401  
The Discipline of Sir Thomas Fairfaxes army. p. 150  
Dudley Castle shrewdly put to it. p. 186  
A Declaration of the Scots Commissioners to our Parliament. p. 439   

E.  
THe enemy beaten at Ormskirk. p. 12  
Eyesalve for Malignants eyes. p. 25  
A brave exploit of Col. Massies. p. 34  
The just Encomium of Col. massy. p. 〈◊〉  
England's just cause to love Scotland. p. ●●  
A brave exploit of Col. Stones. p. 66  
A brave exploit of Col. sydenham's. p. 72  
Divers exploits against the enemy. p. 87  
His Excellencies brave deportment with the King's Commissioners in the West. p. 253  
The enemy beaten at Plymouth p. 96  
England's Blood. p. 323  
The noble Earl of Essex, late Lord General, his good Service rewarded. p. 151  
Evesham taken. p. 153  
A brave exploit against the enemy by Wareham Garrison. p. 175  
A brave exploit against 〈◊〉. p. 30  
The godly education of the King's Children considered. p. 128  
The blessed effects of the monthly Morning Prayers, and Preaching in London. p. 207  
Hopeful effects of the Kings coming in to the Scots. p. 422.   

F.  
OUr Forces prosperous success against Prince Rupert in Lancashire. p. 12  
Colonel Foxes brave performances. p. 13. & 27  
Our Foot-forces in danger in Cornwall in the West. p. 19  
Fidelity of the noble Lord General to the Parliament. p. 37  
The Fight at Newberry. p. 57  
Major Fenicks good Service. p. 262  
Freeholders' of Glamorgan-shire their Declaration. p. 317  
Sir Erasmus De La Fountains House. p. 103  
Sir Thomas Fairfax come to London to be Generalissimo of all the Armies in the Kingdom. p. 109  
Sir Thomas Fairfaxes new modelled army resolved on. p. 127  
Sir Thomas Fairfaxes mercy to the enemy. p. 358  
Sir Thomas Fairfax advanced to Oxford. p. 140  
Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Forces or strength before Oxford. p. 142  
The King flies from Leicester. p. 172   

G.  
SIr John Gell takes Winkfield Manor. p. 14  
The Lord General's fidelity. p. 37  
General 〈◊〉 brother shot dead. p. 59  
God, a multitude of Parliamentary mercies. p. 63  
Gratitude of the Parliament to well deservers. p. 2●●  
Glamorgan-shire turned to the Parliament. p. 317  
Germanies Blood. p. 322  
Gentry of Cornwall submit to the Parliament. p. 383  
The General Sir Thomas Fairfax honoured by the Parliament with a Jewel. p. 170  
Goods of Papists apprehended in Long Acre. p. 183   

H.  
TWelve brave Horses surprised from the enemy. p. 6  
Helmesley Castle taken. p. 70  
Col. Holborn●s good-service in the West. p. 77. & 82. 8. 96  
Col. Harsnets' Letter touching Abbington. p. 93  
The happy Harmony of both Houses of Parliament. p. 127. & 131  
Hoptons' Army totally routed in the West. p. 367  
A Day of Humiliation kept for our Forces in the West. p. 182  
Hopton summoned to come in. p. 387  
Hopton expects supplies out of Ireland. p. 391  
Col. Hooke taken prisoner. p. 74   

I.  
LOrd Inchiquins' Letter. p. 5  
An Irish Ship taken. p. 44  
Irish Rebels to have no quarter. p. 36  
Integrity of the Parliament. p. 293 & 325  
King James his sad and bad mention. p. 321  
Isle of Rees Blood. p. 323  
Ireland's Blood. p. 223  
Irish Rebels bravely beaten at Sligo. p. 342  
An Irish Ship taken. p. 386  
Thirty Irish Rebels put to the sword. p. 386  
A Jewel of Five hundred pound sent to the noble General Sir Thomas Fairfax. p. 170  
A Jewel of Five hundred pound presented to Gen. Leven. p. 203   

K.  
THe King come to Newberry. p. 56  
Knares borough Castle taken. p. 83  
The King's Plot in the North frustrated. p. 259  
The King's Horse beaten at Kiddarminster. p. 276  
Kent Petitions the Parliament about the selfe-denying Ordinance. p. 98  
The Kings own Lifeguard troop of Horse taken. p. 121  
Kent rises again in Rebellion. p. 136  
The King flies from Leicester. p. 172  
The King's Cabinet of Letters taken at Nasebie. p. 175  
The King escapes disguisedly out of Oxford. p. 414  
The Kings coming into the Scots Army. p. 417   

L.  
A Letter from the Lord of Inchiquin. p. 5  
Our Army in danger by a Plot at Leistithiel in the West. p. 17  
London Ministers Petition against Schisms. p. 28  
Col. Lambert takes a brave prize. p. 44  
Levon pool in Lancashire surrendered. p. 62  
Line apprehends a rich Ship driven into it. p. 71  
Laughorne Castle in Wales taken. p. 71  
Lin-Kegis in danger. p. 79  
The Parliaments gratitude to Major General Laughorne. p. 278  
Loyalty of Gen. Poyntz rewarded. p. 281  
A Letter touching Abbington. p. 93  
Letters of the Lord Digbies. p. 303  
About forty of the King Lifeguard surprised. p. 320  
General Lesley made Commander in chief at Newark. p. 327  
London's providence, and the Parliaments care for the City's safety. p. 337  
The King's Letter to the Parliament. p. 345  
The King's Letter for a Treaty of Peace answered. p. 347  
London Petitions for Church-Government. p. 349  
Cabinet of Letters taken at Nasebie. p. 175  
Learning encouraged at Cambridge by the Parliament. p. 135  
Divers Lords come from Oxford to the Parliament. p. 137  
London's Petition touching the Kingdom's sad condition. p. 155  
A List of Cornish Gentry come in to the Parliament. p. 395  
The Duke of Lenox and others come in to the Parliament. p. 414  
A Letter of the Commissioners of Scotland to the Parliament. p. 416  
London's preservation from the plague of pestilence a great mercy. p. 315  
A Letter from the King to the marquis of Ormond in Ireland, p. 437  
Letters from Sir Thomas Fairfax touching Oxford. p. 445  
The King's Letters for yielding up all his Garrisons. p. 444   

M.  
Colonel Massies Letter to the Parliament. p. 3  
Earl of manchester's advance from York. p. 6  
Col. Middleton beats the enemy. p. 9  
Sir john Meldrum beats the enemy in Lancashire. p. 10. & p. 12.  
Our Magazine in the West in danger. p. 17  
Sir Thomas Middleton beats the enemy. p. 23  
Mountgomery Castle taken. p. 23  
Mourton-Corbet Castle taken. p. 25  
Macquire and Macmahone, two Irish Rebels apprehended. p. 27  
Ministers Ordained at London. p. 41  
Sir john Meldrums noble act touching Sir William Fairfax. p. 34  
The enemy bravely beaten at Mountgomery Castle. p. 30  
Col. Massies brave exploit against the enemy. p. 34  
Monmouth Town and Castle taken. p. 35  
Col. Massies just praise. p. 44  
Sir Thomas Middleton's performances in Wales p. 46  
Malignants mouths stopped. p. 55. & 135.  
Sir Thomas Middleton's brave exploit in Mountgomeryshire, p. 77  
Montrosse prevails in Scotland. p. 269  
Montrosse sound beaten in Scotland. p. 270  
Not a month, week, or day hardly without a mercy. p. 285  
Mercy to Malignants intended by the Parliament. p. 288  
Election of Members of Parliament looked unto. p. 293  
Maintenance for the New-modelled Army. p. 97  
A passage of providence at Melton-moubury. p. 103  
Col. Massies brave Victory at the Forest of Deane. p. 116  
Col. massy beats the enemy near Bristol. p. 129  
Col. Massies danger and deliverance. p. 144  
Sir john Meldrums good service requited. p. 152  
Col. Mittens Forces good service. p. 167  
Monthly continued Morning Prayers at London. p. 207  
The Ministers of two Counties Petition the Parliament for a Church Government to be established. p. 434  
Our mercies Baptised Gad a Multitude. p. 63  
Ministers of London's and Westminster's most pious meeting at Sion-Colledge. p. 445   

N.  
NEw-Castle taken by the Scots. p. 46  
Newberry Fight. p. 57  
Newcastle Castle taken. p. 61  
Newcastle in free Trading again. p. 69  
Our Northern Forces in good condition. p. 259  
The fifth of Novembers' Commemoration, a Thanksgiving Day for the Parliaments continuation. p. 315  
Novembers seventeenth, Queen Elizabeth's just Commemoration noted on a special occasion. p. 323  
Newarke besieged by the Scots, and their brave beginnings there to tame that enemy. p. 327  
The prisoners taken at Nasebie-fight brought to London. p. 173  
Newarke left by our Brethren of Scotland. p. 419   

O.  
LOrd Ogleby taken prisoner. p. 11  
The enemy beaten at Orinskirk. p. 11  
Ordination of Ministers at London. p. 46  
Ordinance against Irish Rebels. p. 57  
Ordinance of self-denial. p. 5  
Care for choosing good Officers in London. p. 82  
Two excellent Ordinances of Parliament. p. 312  
An Ordinance for the maintenance of the New-modelled Army. p. 97  
Oxford Lords come in to the Parliament. p. 137  
Oxford besieged by the Gen. Sir Thomas Fairfax. p. 140  
Master Occonnelly rewarded for his discovery of the desperate plot in Ireland. p. 152  
Oxford surrendered, the manner how. p. 446   

P.  
A Plot upon our Magazine in the West. p. 17  
The Parliaments promptitude to the work of Reformation. p. 29  
A Plot against the Parliaments Army in the West. p. 37  
Plottings of the Royalists to cousin the Kingdom. p. 37  
Plymouth mens admirable courage. p. 38  
A brave prize taken at Poole. p. 44  
More Plots of the enemy discovered. p. 78  
The Plot against Lyn-Regis. p. 79  
A Plot in the North frustrated. p. 259  
Major Gen. Poyntz his activity and fidelity rewarded. p. 281  
The Parliaments piety. p. 293  
The Parliaments happy continuation a great mercy. p. 315  
Preservation of London from the plague of pestilence a great mercy. p. 415  
Parliaments formerly made staulking-horses to get Subsidies. p. 322  
A prize taken at Plymouth. p. 323  
The Parliaments integrity against Protections and Bribes. p. 325  
Sergeant Major Purefoyes brave valour at Compton-house. p. 99  
A brave Passage of providence at Sir Erasmus Fountains house. p. 103  
Pretended peace at Uxbridge. p. 104  
The Parliaments care of the City of London. p. 337  
Plimouths singular good success against the enemy. p. 340  
Partshall Garrison taken. p. 108  
Plymouth totally relieved and freed from Siege. p. 348  
Praises encouraged. p. 365  
Sergeant Major Purefoyes good Services about Warwick. p. 146  
A Petition to the Parliament about the Kingdom's sad condition. p. 155  
A Petition to the Parliament by the inhabitants of Westminster. p. 188  
A Plot of the Western Clubmen discovered. p. 201  
A Petition of the Ministerr of the two Counties about Church-Governement. p. 434  
Propositions for a well-grounded Peace resolved on. p. 444   

Q.  
NO Quarter to be granted to Irish Rebels. p. 56  
The Queen of sweden desire to associate with England. p. 84  
Queen Elizabeth's just Commemoration. p. 320   

R.  
PRince Robert defeated. p. 11, 12, 13.  
Col. Rudgely bravely beats the enemy. p. 22  
Royalists plot to cousin the Kingdom. p. 37  
Rad Castle taken. p. 40  
Captain Redmans' good service in Northamptonshire. p. 83  
The enemy defeated about Redding. p. 261  
Master Rouses Psalms. p. 319  
Rochels Blood. p. 323  
The enemy defeated at Rumsey. p. 136  
An excellent Remonstrance of our Brethren of Scotland. p. 183  
The City of London's most excellent and famous Remonstrance. p. 426  
Reformation of Religion taken into consideration. p. 257   

S.  
SHeffild Castle taken. p. 7  
Staley-house taken. p. 9  
Major Straughans' brave performances in the West. p. 15  
Major Skippon bravely encourages his Soldiers. p. 19  
Schisms Petitioned against. p. 28  
Reasons of slandering of our Brethren of Scotland. p. 39  
Col. sydenham's good service. p. 62  
Capt. Stone his brave service. p. 66  
Sir John Strangeways house a strong Garrison stormed. p. 67  
Col. sydenham's brave service. p. 72  
Selfe-denying Ordinance. p. 76  
The Swedes desire to associate with England. p. 84  
Sir George Strangeways brought Prisoner to the Parliament. p. 259  
A foul and false slander laid on the Parliament by Royalists in Wales. p. 263  
Major General Skippon made Governor of Bristol. p. 268  
Our Brethren of Scotland's Victory over Montrosse in Scotland. p. 270  
Scotland's blood. p. 323  
Scarborough Town, Church, and Haven taken. p. 110  
Shrewsbury Town and Castle taken. p. 113  
A brave victory obtained at Sligo in Ireland. p. 342  
Major Gen. Skippons brave service about the settlement of the new Modelled Army. p. 132  
A Ship taken at Dartmouth with Letters of importance. p. 359  
A spur to quicken the spirit of praises. p. 365  
Captain Stones good service against the enemy. p. 152  
The Scots advance to Nottingham. p. 174  
A Ship of Ireland taken at Padstow of much concernment. p. 386  
Our Brethren of Scotland's excellent Remonstrance to the King. p. 183  
Shrewsburies' Committees just praise. p. 443  
The Scots retreat from Newark to Newcastle. p. 419  
The enemy beaten at Stoke-new-house. p. 107   

T.  
TInmouth Castle taken. p. 63  
Free Trading at Newcastle. p. 69  
Taunton-Dean in the West relieved. p. 81  
The enemy beaten at Tong Castle. p. 84  
Mr. Tomlins made a Baron of the Exchequer. p. 282  
Thanksgiving for London's welfare. p. 315  
The Treaty at Uxbridge for peace. p. 104  
Major Temple bravely beats the enemy near Dennington. p. 111  
Treaties with Malignants dangerous. p. 344  
Thanksgiving for Chester. p. 364  
Tauntons most happy relief. p. 174  
Tauntons Soldiers good services rewarded. p. 151  
Thanksgiving for Langport, the manner thereof. p. 197   

V.  
A Brave Victory obtained near Chester by Sir William Brereton. p. 97  
A brave Victory obtained by Colonel Massies Forces in the Forest of Deane. p. 116  
Major Gen. Vrreyes' brave Victory against Montrosse in Scotland. p. 134  
Uxbridge Treaty. p. 104  
A brave Victory at the Devizes. p. 123   

W.  
THe enemy beaten at Welch-poole. p. 5  
Wareham yielded to the Parliament. p. 5  
Welbeck-house taken. p. 7  
Winkfield Manor besieged. p. 9  
Winkfield Manor taken. p. 14  
Wales in good condition for the Parliament. p. 302  
The Governor of Warwick's brave service in Worcester-shire. p. 107  
Weymouth bravely regained. p. 117  
Sir William waller's brave Victory at the Devizes. p. 123  
Court of Wards Voted down. p. 369  
Warehams Garrisons good service. p. 175  
Inhabitants of Westminster's Petition. p. 181   

Y.  
THe Duke of YORK to come from Oxford. to Saint James'. p. 445   
FINIS.