A Brief NARRATION OF THE Plotting, Beginning & Carrying on of that Execrable REBELLION and BUTCHERY IN IRELAND.  
With the unheard of Devilish-Cruelties and Massacres by the Irish-Rebels, exercised upon the PROTESTANTS and English there.  
Faithfully Collected out of Depositions, taken by Commissioners under the Great Seal of IRELAND.  
Hereunto are added OBSERVATIONS, Discovering the Actions of the late KING; and manifesting the Concernment of the PROTESTANT-Army now employed in IRELAND.  
Published by special Authority.  
LONDON, Printed by B. Alsop and T. Dunster. And are to be delivered at Bernard Alsop's house in Grub-street. MDCL.   

The Preface.  
THe execrable Butchery exercised by the Irish, in eight years' last passed, upon the English Protestants, hath so filled all good hearts with sorrow and detestation, that it is impossible to represent it with greater, and more solemn Agravations, than the bare recital, Now as it was an action so foully criminal in all, both divine and humane considerations; so hath there not any complied with the Instruments of it, or afforded them the least favour, that have not either found their ruin, or may not (if their eyes be open) see, they are a hasting towards it. Whereas those (I means the Parliament of England) that ever declared their detestation of it; and did ever effectually prosecute a Revenge, (even in the midst of their danger, and cruel oppositions of the prevaricating English Court) have found the hand of God so mightily and visibly assisting them, that they have triumphed over their Opressors, and seen all their own endeavours crowned with success. Now as the comfort they have reaped by their integrity, is not small; so (no doubt) will they find it enlarged, when they have found, that all men are satisfied, both with the justness of their proceeding, and amazed with the horror of such exquisite wickedness: Which that it may be known; not only to this Age, but to the Children that are yet to be born; it is held fit, that such discoveries as have been brought to them, should clearly and freely be brought to light; and laid open, that all men might bear witness against those Savages, against whom the blood of so many innocents' cries behind the Altar.  
To this end, there is publishing a large volume of Depositions (though far short of what might have been produced, a great part of that Island being ever since in the hands of the Rebels) where the Reader may at large satisfy himself of all the circumstances which may style the Massacre Horrid and Diabolical. But because that volume is swollen to a great largeness, and therefore cannot readily expect to pass the Press, it hath been thought fit in the mean time, to publish this small Tract, as an Introduction, or forerunner (or call it what you please) of the other.  
And seeing the other is merely composed of particular Relations, and brings not any thing to direct the recollection of the affairs of England, there are added some Observations, by which it may appear, with what Sympathy the affairs of the English Court and Irish Rebels, were carried on. And with what impiety Great ones warp from their true and public Interest, to sacrifice to their private Ambition, by unlawful compliances, and bloody permissions.  
This is that (Reader) which in Limine I was to tell you; and I doubt not, but this small piece will heighten thy expectation of the greater volume, which with all diligence shall be hastened to thee.   

THE HISTORY of the IRISH REBELLION.  
THe Rebellion in Ireland, which broke forth in the year 1641. was in its design so divellisn, in its attempt so sudden, and in its execution so Sanguinary: That neither that evening which to this day infames Sicily, nor the vast profusion of blood, about a Sentry of years since, made at Paris, do by many degrees come near the inhumanity and deaths by this one action, which is therefore so necessary to be known, as well to those who are not well versed in the Irish affairs, as also those that are hurried away in the torrent of false asseverations, or drawn aside by reason of the spetious pretences of the Irish Party and their Complices, that we can not think we discharge our duty, if we let not all sober Christians understand by this extract taken from several depositions, upon oath before the Commissioners in that behalf authorized by Commission under the great Seal of Ireland. What a meek Religion it is, how constant to that sweet simplicity and innocence, taught and practised by jesus Christ, and followed in the primitive ages. I say, what a meek Religion it is, that from its own principles, can naturally and without force draw such fierce and bloody conclusions, and how fit they are to be Members of mankind, much less to receive protectionall favour, that implicitly resign themselves to the perpetration of that which the sowers of such wicked seed shall propose unto them.  
Yet are we not to suppose, that that fatal eruption was so sudden as it appeared, or so unpremeditated, as not to have been the obstinate and restless design of many years. Nor yet that the Irish though a people changeable, and susceptable of commotion) had so much either courage, discretion, and industry, as to have attempted this without strong influences, serious debates, and constant quickenings. 
See all the depositions under the head for the antiquity of the Plot, being the first head of all.  No it is now 25, or 26 years since Hell first breathed out (by means of the Romish Clergy) this cruel machination, and inspired them with an expedient how to destroy Protestantism, first within England, Ireland, and Scotland; and afterwards in what ends of the world soever it, That is to say the sincere word of Salvation should be taught and professed.  
But because in the three lands of England, Scotland, 
This was confessed by a Friar to one M. George Stocdale in the County of Dublin, for which see M. Stoedales' second examination in the book of Dublin, he being the 165. depon.  and Ireland, it was most generally and principally observed. It was first projected and resolved amongst these of the Roman Party, that with the least noise and suspicion possible, much Arms, Ammunition, Artillery, Shipping, and great sums of money (the very sinews of War) with strong numbers of Commanders and Soldiers, should be raised and had in readiness in Spain, and Italy, for the assaulting and surprising of Ireland.  
To the promoting whereof, great sums of money were levied at Rome, and divers other parts both of Italy, and Spain, especially amongst their Convents, Colleges, and Religious houses. And because that foreign power and provision might be the more prevalent, 
See also the dep. of M. Roger Holland, Coun. Monoghan both taken about eight years since.  & transported with the least opposition. It was further projected and agreed amongst these confederates. That all commotions & sedition possible, should be raised by the Priests & Friars (too numerous and powerful at that time) both in England, Scotland, and Ireland, between the Protestants and the Papists. Whereupon (though too many were there before) yet great swarms of Priests & Friars flew into the same three lands out of Spain, Italy, France, Flanders, and other places. Who were so intent, solicitous, close, and subtle in their courses, as men long bred & versed therein. That upon their secret and subtle surmises of danger there threatened by the Puritan party (as they call them) to the Protestant party, to their (the Romish) Religion, whose (as they pretended) subversion was their principal aim) much dissension and differences arose and for a long time boiled and burned in the breasts of great numbers, some naturally wicked, others (perhaps) only seduced and surprised, ignorantly following the time and their acquaintances, that on a sudden (after several years spent in broaching and sowing of these jealousies, and in preparing of the other provision) while the harmless Protestant thought least, only hoped to be quiet, there were sent out of Spain a strong fleet of ships fully manned, with great numbers of Commanders, Soldiers and Mariners, and as well fraught and furnished with Artillery, Arms, Ammunition, Money and all other necessaries for War; all which were designed for Ireland: One half to be landed at Kinsale in the South-west, the other half at Killabegges in the North. Howbeit a fierce and strong wind carrying them (perforce) past the Coast of Ireland into the Narrow Sea, the Hollanders fell upon them, and as it is well known, sunk many, took divers, yet some escaped.  
This plot thus fare (by the great Providence) prevented, the Rebellion could not then begin in Ireland, (as indeed it should have done) had the fleet (as was intended) landed there.  
Whereupon afterwards it was further plotted and agreed amongst those Machiavellian Factors, of Spain and Rome, and many other laypapists of England, Scotland and Ireland, (all sworn to secrecy) and still, (notwithstanding that their high disaster) as much as they could, keeping their former plot and resolution on foot.  
That in all those three Lands, 
See the deposition of M. Thomas Crant of the County of Cavan amongst others.  the Papists should generally rise up in arms upon one set day, & then to surprise the tower of London in England, the Castle of Edinburgh in Scotland, and the Castle of Dublin in Ireland, with as many more Castles, Forts, Holds and places of strength, as they could possibly feaze upon in all the three Lands. And the better to enable themselves to surprise the Castle and City of Dublin, it was concluded, that twenty Popish Soldiers out of every County of the Land, should (the night before the time appointed for the taking of Dublin,) privately make their addresses to that City, the Suburbs and other places there about, to be in readiness to assist the taking and spoiling of the same Castle and City, and to do execution upon the Protestants, which numbers of men, and many more came thither at the time appointed; a great part whereof crept into the City and Suburbs, the night before; the residue remained about the Ditches, Hedges & obscure places there, as fully appeared on the Greene's of that City the next morning, to the great terror of the honest Citizens. And also because they might not want full strength to perform and bear out their design, they took occasion to make use of another force raised there, upon pretence to be sent to foreign service: some of which they practised, should be brought up to take shipping at Dublin, and thereabout lie in readiness, and the rest to lie in other parts near the Port towns of Ireland; all to countenance and back the business. They taking the advantage of certain Commissions, (all dated about May 1641 granted by the King to several Commanders, viz. One to Colonel Garret Barrie, another to Colonel Tibbot Taaff. (now Lord Taaff) another to Col. john Barrie. another to Sir Jeames Dillon (all Irish Papists) for raising & levying for each of these Colonels 1000 menin Ireland, out of those men formerly raised in that land by the Earl of Strafford, and then lately disbanded. The same Commissions purporting, that they should be transported for the service of any Foreign Prince in Amity with the King, the rather to free Ireland of them.  
These Commissions were in july afterwards, (which was about three months before the breaking out of the Rebellion) brought over and delivered by these Colonels to the Lord Justices, and Council of Ireland, whereupon four thousand of the disbanded soldiers aforesaid were raised, one Regiment whereof under the command of the said Colonel john Barrie was brought to the parts near Dublin, the rest to other Ports of Ireland, and there (for a seeming defect of transportation and provision) they hanckered and stayed for a good time, yet seeming daily to prepare, but the Irish Popish Knights and other Burgesses of the Parliament, (finding the Lord Justices and Council forward to send them away) moved extremely in the Parliament House, that they might not go out of the Land till the King's pleasure should be further known.  
The Lord Justices and Council being thus extremely importuned by the Parliament (then grown strong in Irish) were drawn to write into England, signifying the Parliaments earnest desire therein, yet gave no impediment to the going of those Regiments, who in truth were sufficiently retarded by the vehement labour of Priests and Jesuits, and some of the Parliament Papists amongst those Commanders, so as they continued there (for the most part) till the Rebellion broke out. And then perceiving their plot for surprising of Dublin to be prevented, 
Many Irish and other strangers hovered in England and London, and the Suburbs the same time, as I have been credibly informed.  they and all those before mentioned, which came out of all the Counties, as aforesaid, unto, and about Dublin, dispersed, and afterward became dexterous and ready actors in the ensuing rebellion.  
And although by divine providence this Plot were prevented in England, and Scotland, yet how it began and took effect in Ireland, is too well known to those many eye witnesses who were inhumanly turned out of their estates, and exposed to all the miseries of cold, wet, and hunger, if not (for increase of their miseries) sharply wounded and maimed; and was too well felt by others, whose lives were torn and rend from them in this day of visitation, appearing by the numerous examinations.  
And before I make mention of the other things which you shall find in the ensuing tract, give me leave to say somewhat of that, delivered upon Oath by that Reverend and learned Preacher Henry jones Doctor in Divinity (as he heard it expressed and confessed unto him by two Friars) Who relateth, 
See the examination of Dr. Henry jones, Com. Dublin 337. dep.  that howsoever the first breaking out of the fire of this rebellion into a flame began but the 23 of October 1641. yet was it smoking many years before. God having given many glimpses for the discovery of it, had they been duly considered or prosecuted, to a discovery.  
For first, about three or four years before the Rebellion began to break out (amongst many prohibited books brought into the City of Limerick from foreign parts, and seized on by the Reverend man Doctor Web then Bishop there) amongst the rest one was framed as an addition to the first part, which was printed containing a discourse of the Friars of the Augustine Order, sometime seated in the Town of Armagh in Ulster, but by reason of the times, at that present resident, (as the writing imported) in the City of Limerick in Munster, that whilst that Convent flourished at Armagh, it was protected and largely provided for by the then Earl of Tirone; since whose expulsion out of Ireland, that Convent was also decayed, and driven to those distresses it did for the present complain to undergo: yet that within three years Ireland should find, that the said Earl had a son, inheriting his father's virtues, who should restore that Kingdom to its former liberty, and that Covent to its first Lustre.  
About the same time a Popish Priest at Limerick aforesaid gave out that within three years there should not be a Protestant in Ireland.  
About the same time also one Walter Newgent of Rathaspick in the County of Meath Gentleman, son to Walter Newgent Esquire (a man of good fortunes) upbraiding an Irish Protestant who was a Parish Clark, with his Religion, and both speaking Latin, the said Newgent uttered these words, Infra tres annos veniunt tempus & potentiâ in Hibernia quando tu long (likely meaning diu) pendebis in cruce propter Diabolicam Vestram Religionem. The party to which this was spoken (fearing the power of the man) durst not speak of it, only in private, but being examined judicially, deposed the same.  
About the same time, near the Naas about 12 miles from Dublin, a Papist Priest newly arrived out of Flanders, informed the Lord Deputy Strafford of an intercourse of Letters, between the young Earl of Tirone with others in Flanders, and the then Popish Primate of Armagh, Rely, concerning an invasion within a short time intended upon Ireland. The Priest offering (so his person might be secured) to direct such as should be thereunto appointed to the place, where the letters lay in the Custody of the said Rely: Rely was thereupon sent for together with the Popish Vicar general of Armagh, both were committed to the Castle of Dublin, but soon after released, and the informer dismissed with ten pounds, a suit of clothes and some other reward. Thus far Doctor jones.  
It appeareth also by the examinations that many other informations were given of an intended Rebellion to the said Lord of Strafford, and to Sir George Radcliffe Knight, several years before it broke out from several parts of Ireland.  
For we find it proved that about April, 
See Dr. Maxwells dep. Coun. Armagh.  1638. one Priest Mac-Casy, came from Rome with the Pope's Bull for the Parish of Tinon, and being kept out by Sir Phelim o Neal, he talked freely of a Rebellion plotted and intended by Sir Phelim and others, and told the then Lord Deputy Strafford thereof at Dublin.  
One Mr. Richard Parsons a Minister, 
See Mr. Richard Parsons dep. Coun. Cavan.  was told by four several persons of credit (which he namelth) three years and above before the Rebellion, that the plot for the intended Rebellion was discovered to the then Lord Deputy (which was the Lord of Strafford) by one that was servant to Sir Phelim o Neal, and that thereupon the Popish titulary Primate of Ireland, was apprehended and imprisoned at Dublin, but afterwards procured favour to be enlarged, so as he heard no further enquiry made after it, until the fire thereof broke out into a flame, which otherwise might have been prevented, and thereby the lives of many poor innocent people saved, that were murdered and taken away, besides the common calamity, wasting and depopulating of the Land prevented.  
And it is much to be presumed, 
James Stewart Coun. Cavan.  that the Irish had too much influence from the Lord of Strafford, for that some of them divulged, that one cause of their insurrection, was the cutting off of the Lord Lieutenant, protesting that such as were Britanes should pay for it.  
Another instance thereof is, 
Mr. George Creichtoun Coun. Cavan.  that one Mr. John Bellowe being sent by the house of Commons of Ireland to prosecute the Earl of Strafford in the Parliament of England, and telling the business to the Earl of Niddesdale, that Earl mightily dissuaded him with these words, If he be taken away our Ctholique Religion cannot stand, for the case is so with us now, that if he live, we hope to do well, if he miscarry we are all undone.  
Another instance hereof we have from one Mirs. Champin, 
Alice Champin Coun. Fermanagh.  who (having been rob of a very great estate, and her husband and many others in her house murdered, the Rebels told her that the Earl of Strafford was the Plotter of that their rising, and that if the said Earl had been living, they should not have had so much trouble in vanquishing of Ireland, as they had.  
Another hint we have both of the antiquity of the Plot for the Rebellion, and of somewhat concerning the Earl of Strafford, and the Lord of Derries knowing of it, which is this; 
Roger Holland Coun. Monoghan.   
One Mr. Roger Holland an English Gentleman of good value (after he was rob of a good estate by the Irish) fled towards Dublin, and coming to the Newry, and Carlingford, was in both places in company with Colonel Richard Plunket, 
Note that this was in the beginning of the Rebellion, 1641.  (a notable active Rebel) who there told him and many others, that the said plot had been for seventeen years then past in contriving, and that Friar Melone and himself, and one of the Lord Trimblestons' sons (another Friar) with many others of the Nobility of the pall, and in the North knew of it a long time, but that some others of the Nobles knew not of it till of late, and as for Sir Phelim o Neal, he made no account (as he said) but for all Ireland to be his own and the others of his party, for that was their intent, and for all Puritans and Protestants they should all suffer, but such as should go to Mass, and but few of them should be left, but those that knew of the aforesaid plot, which was partly the Bishop of Derry, for whom they daily wished, for he was the only man of the English which they loved best. And that if they had him, he should take no hurt. And hearty wished that the late Lord Lieutenant were alive, for if he had lived, they had lived well enough, and would have had all the strength in the Kingdom. And that he knew very well of their plot, which was the cause for removing the pieces of Ordnance out of the North.  
Some other causes are mentioned for removeing of the Artillery out of the North, and other places, which are but foul Symptoms of any care his Lordship took of the safety of the English there, but for those, I leave you to the examinations themselves.  
I think these instances may satisfy any judicious and impartial man, that this plot is not of any late conception or contrivance, as the Irish Papists and some others of their faction, would wrest it unto: Which is, That the beginning and occasion of it, was but taken from a pretended knowledge, or feigned information they had; That this present Parliament of England had decreed to destroy all the Papists, both of England, Scotland and Ireland, which was and is a pretence as vain, as they shameless in broaching it. But it is a custom amongst the Disciples of Satan, (no less frequent than subtle) never to act any thing of high concernment, and specially to put nothing in execution, without knowing first how to palliate and excuse it, by some seeming and more than ordinary necessity. And who so fit to contrive a second, when the first plot and excuse would rather amaze and deter the multitude with home they were to deal, than engage their faith therein, than that old wily Serpent and liar from the beginning, and the Romish locusts, his accomplished Artists, who contrived a way, and in show a cause of necessity for a sudden insurrection of the Irish against the English and Protestants, as it were for saving of their own throats from a present pretended conspiracy against them, made by the English. And therefore not to rely solely upon their own or the foreign strength they expected to resist it. It was then further resolved and agreed on amongst them, That howsoever the groundwork of this Rebellion was laid very many years since, 
Dr. Henry Jones Com. Dublin.  (as they had done the like in several former ages) yet would they not have it so to seem. But new occasion must be found as the sole cause of their breaking out.  
The fittest means for this, (as they conceived) was to cast Aspersions upon the Sat and present government, which (if longer tolerated) would (as they gave out) prove extremely dangerous, not only to their Religion, but to their Lives and posterity; For effecting where of reports were cast out, that in the Parliament of England, the cutting off of all the Papists in Ireland of what degree soever was concluded on; and the execution of that resolution committed to the Council of Ireland. Who (say they) appointed a day for this work, being the 23 of November than next following 1641. That for the better, more sure, and secret managing of this pretended plot, such of the popish Nobility and gentry of both houses, as appeared in Parliament at Dublin, should be secured, (no such thing being so much as thought on by that State) and for the drawing together the rest, (amongst other pretences) This is alleged to be one, that the Kings-Rents were purposely omitted, and not called upon in Easter-Term with that earnestness as formerly. And that such as made default should be summoned to appear in Michaelmas Term in Dublin, and there surprised. Whereby such of them as should then remain in the countries (wanting their Heads) might be (as they said) easily cut off. They said this present plot was (I know not how) discovered unto them, so that for the safety of their lives and professions, they were enforced to stand upon their guard, and to counter-work that day of the 23 of November, by their declaring and rising themselves in Arms on the 23 of October, a month before. The time drawing near for putting their design in execution, there was a great meeting appointed, of the heads of the Romish Clergy, and other Laymen of their faction, at the Abbey of Multifarnam in the County of Westmeath, where was a Covent of Franciscan Friars. This meeting happened accordingly, not long before the time of the breaking out of their rebellion, where the business then in question was, what course should be taken with the English, and all others that were found in the whole Kingdom to be Protestants. The Council was therein divided, some were for their banishment, without attempting on their lives. Others urged a necessity of cutting off them and theirs, and that a general Massacre were the safest and readiest way to free the Kingdom of all fears and dangers; Others moved a mean way, neither to dismiss nor kill, yet those that most favoured them concluded that they should be all rob and stripped, and according to this do we find the event and course of their proceed. For in some places, they were generally put to the sword, some restrained their persons, others (after a time) dismissed their prisoners, first having spoilt them of their goods, and exposed them to cold and famine, they that way perished by the worst death of all. And because no necessary thing fit for so gracious a Commonwealth should be left unsettled: These mighty Counsellors (consisting for the most part of ancient English Papists) discoursed to establish certain rules or laws for the Civil or Martial government of the Land, concluding that from thenceforth no Protestant at all, should either rule, or have any being there. They also concluded, that when they should have settled the Land, they would send thirty thousand men into England, to join with the Spanish and other forces, and then jointly to fall upon Scotland, for reducing both those Lands to the obedience of the Pope, which being finished, they had engaged themselves to the King of Spain, for assisting him against the Hollanders, and giving their Rebellion (as they term it) its due correction.  
We find also that after these Priests and Friars had laid their first Plot, they committed and communicated the secrets of it to some of the Nobility, a good time after to some more of them, last of all to the Popish gentry of best value, (upon oaths of secrecy) and to live and die with them in the quarrel, and for a long time before the Rebellion, as well the powerful ones (who knew of the plot) as the rest of the Papists, by command and direction of their Popish Priests and Friars, were observed in all parts of the Land to keep many strict Fasts, and many of the meaner sort being asked why they fasted so very often, their answers were, they knew not, but their holy Fathers told them, there was a good and great work, for the prosperity whereof, they must use much fasting and prayer.  
One day of their humiliation and praying, being the more remarkable, because generally performed by them in all places. The public prayer of all their Priests and Friars then being, that God would give a blessing to the great design in hand, & drawing near, and that he would vouchsafe ability unto them thoroughly to effect the same. This drew the Common people into a unanimous expectation & strong resolution to prosecute the same, when they should discover to what end their said Ghostly-fathers' had engaged their zeal. And although the times of their humiliation & prayer were much observed by the English and Protestants, yet they harboured not the due suspic on which the demeanours of the other party required, because (indeed) the Protestants imagined the Papists thereby pointed at, & meant the endeavours of the Irish Commissioners then in England, in pursuit of those graces & great bounties they afterward obtained from the King, & brought over with them. And noted it is, that this so strict humiliation and praying was not only in Ireland, but frequently observed by many of the Papists in England. 
The Pope's Nuncio directed the like fast to be then in England, as appears by the Declaration of the Parliament.  And yet to the vulgar sort of people thereof was not discovered, only their Ghostly-fathers', their Priests, and Friars (to increase and inflame their devotion) gave them a hint, that strict fasting and diligent fervent prayers, must be performed by all Romish Catholics (as they call them) for the prosperity of a great design they had in hand. And here I cannot pass by, but must tender to your consideration, a Letter found at Preston in Lanca-shire, written by a Papist to one Mr. Westhy a Doctor in Physic of the same Religion. Whereby he was not only enjoined alone, but also to stir up the zeal and affection of others (Papists) to observe a strict constant fast, and praying for the prosperity of the Queen's good intentions, which by the opinions of the Judicious, was meant nothing else, than the Plot above mentioned.  
But lest I should prove deficient in relating some part of the plot of these incarnate Devils, above mentioned, I shall desire you to take along with you this known truth. 
See all the depositions under this Head.  That their design likewise was, not to spare any of the English race, that were Protestants (as in the several Rebellions before they had likewise resolved to do.) And that they would deprive of life all irrational creatures of the English breed, as horses, cattles, sheep, swine, & even very cats and dogs. They also designed to annul and destroy all the Laws, Customs, Civility, Manners and Apparel of the English; to deface and spoil all their Churches, and all Monuments, Records, Charters, Writings, any way relating thereto; and either to seize, or deface all Forts, Castles, Holds, Houses, Towns, and all things whatsoever either erected by, held, or belonging unto the English & other Protestants, or otherwise tending to civility. And lastly, to abolish and abjure all English rule, dominion, Magistracy, and government whatsoever.  
But some may say, I stay too long in relating their agreements and damned confederacy, before I come to their actions. 'Tis true I do, considering the worst of their actions are over, otherwise if the execution could not have taken effect, until I had ended the relation of their plot, I should choose to be writing thereof, Vsque ad necem.  
But the day limited for the beginning their bloody Massacre, viz. the 23 of October 1641. came, and then upon a sudden, when the innocent hears of the Protestant English, seemed to assume to themselves full security. These barbarous people like Lions, or Tigars, generally fell upon them all, in all the Counties of the Province of Ulster, and in some other Counties of that Land, as in some parts of the Provinces of Lemster and Connaght, and there committed the unheard of and savage cruelties mentioned in the same examinations, some persons only (which indeed are so few, that hardly one of forty) by strange means or rare convoys, 
See the dep. under the Head count cerning murders crucltie, etc.  escaped to Dublin or other Garrisons there to recount their miseries: From which small number indeed we gathered the account we have of the miserable sufferings of themselves and the rest. But howsoever many of the Protestants of the Province of Ulster and other parts, were murdered or spoiled at the very first: yet because the Lord Macquire, Mr. Maghan, and the rest of that bloody crew, had failed in the taking of Dublin City and Castle, (which indeed took them) by occasion of that happy discovery at the very instant, made by Mr. Owen Connelly, unto whom many thousands of us (next unto God) stand engaged for no less than our lives.  
Therefore the Lords, Knights, Gentlemen, and others of the Papists, of the pall (being old English, and as deep in the confederacy as any of the mere Irish) were astonished, and for the present at a stand. And although they had strong wills and affections, (according to their bloody Covenant) to second and join with the Northern Irish in their depredations, spoiling, and massacring of the English Protestants, yet were they deterred to show themselves in action with other confederates, until they had gained some further experience, what the success might be.  
In the mean time because they would encroach, and gain (as much as possibly they could) upon the Lords, Justices, and Privy-Councel of that land, (who then had not their Loyalties in suspicion, knowing them to be so well settled and enriched as they were.) They (in a fawning manner apply themselves to that Counsel, 
This is and will be justified by all the then Privye Council of Ireland, and I knew it myself to be true.  seeming much to condole the begun Rebellion, and bloody acts committed by the Irish, and withal protesting their harbouring of great fears, that they themselves should be spoiled and perish by them, unless the Council would afford them some Arms and Ammunition. Omitting none of the greatest vows, that they were loyal and true to the State, and would (as formerly their Ancestors had done) adventure their fortunes and lives with them and the English Protestants, and with them either live or perish: upon which earnest protestations, the Council (being in that tickle time unwilling to stir jealousies in them) furnished many of the chief of those Palle-men with some quantities of Arms and Ammunition, for guarding of their houses, & after assigned them Arms for 300 men, for the guarding and defending of the County of Dublin, with the like proportion of Arms, to raise men for the defending of Meath, Lowth, Kildare, and Westmeath, being the five shires of the pall, and all inhabited with old English, intending therewith they should resist any further Northern incursion. But on the contrary, by their underhand bringing in the Irish, they shortly after cut off some companies of newly banded English, sent from Dublin toward the relief of Droghedah, which was done in that (ever accounted) the most civil part of the pall. Then did the Papists of the pall esteem it their time to break all faith and go into open rebellion, wherein they joined with the mere barbarous bloodsuckers of the North, turning the Arms, and Ammunition against those, from whom so fraudulently they obtained them. 
D. Ro. Maxwel County Armagh.  And than who more barbarous and sierce than they, for than they told that bloodthirsty (yet cowardly) Rebel Sir Phelim o Neal, that there was neither room enough nor safety either for him or them so long as any of the Protestants were alive.  
This wicked force (so united) increasing their pride, malice, and envy; their rage, and force; out of England, (to repress them) not coming, but being retarded, they fell upon the remaining Protestants that were not murdered, nor escaped, and cut off many of them, stripped and rob all the rest. This also gave further encouragement to all other Irish and old English Papists of Connaght, and Munster to prosecute the former design and agreement for spoiling the English Protestants, within those two Provinces, so as none escaped robbing and stripping, many extremely tortured, and very many suffered death. And although you may amongst the Examinations at large (when they are printed) find out the true relations of numerous, various, and most strange tortures & murders, such (as I am confident) cannot be paralleled by story, in any former age or Country, where no manner of provocation can truly be alleged to be given, but rather all invitations of love: Yet the more to move you to read then at large. I shall give you some short touches of a few of them, as they stand proved by testimony of witnesses upon oath.  
First you may see what vast numbers (after robbing and stripping naked) were murdered and perished, many by the swonrd, 
See all the depositions under the Head for murders and cruelties.  many by hanging drowning, strangling, burning, in Churches, houses, and other places, many buried quick, some baited and worried with dogs, some stoned to death, some thrown into boiling water, some roasted at the fire, some their bowels gored through their fundaments, some their bellies ripped up and their bowels pulled out, the skulls of some broken by twisting ropes and withes about their heads, some having their backs, arms, thighs and legs broken, and cut off, others most miserably wounded, slashed and gored, and so left to languish, freeze, and starve in their bloods; some hanged up by the hair of their heads; little Children deprived of fathers and mothers, crying, mourning, and famishing by their dead bodies; some poor infants rather drawing than sucking their dead mother's breasts; none helping, none relieving, and none putting them out of their pain; but as they lay gasping upon the earth, suffering dogs, swine, and other ravenous creatures, to put an end to their miseries by devouring of them.  
There may you find many, whose backs, legs, or thighs, being broken, and so disabled to stir, lying in the fields, and having like beasts eaten all the grass round about them, would after two or three days, desire the Irish (coming to rejoice and glory over their miseries) to kill and put them out of their pain; if they granted this courtesy, it was rare, to some it was denied, only they would change their pasture in carrying them where more grass was, not so much to feed or relieve them, as to prolong their pining misery. A cruel mercy!  
There you may find the Irish which were servants, insulting, robbing, torturing, wounding, and reviling their English late Masters, who fed them from their infancies.  
There may you find poor women hanging by their necks, and their children also about their necks, some at their girdles, and (in scorn) dog's and cats hanging up with them.  
There you may find many poor Christian Protestants forced through holes under the ice, & there drowned; and many pursued and pricked forward with pikes so far into the Sea, and others into other waters where that they were also drowned; & many as they swum to the shore knocked on the heads, and run through with pikes, and so turned into the water again and drowned.  
There you may find the demolished houses, Churches, Castles, and other buildings lie full of dead-slaughtered bodies of Protestants unburied, and those that were covered with earth, had (for the most part) old banks pulled upon them in ditches, others lay stinking above ground infecting the air, except such as dogs and ravenous creatures devoured.  
There may you find poor harmless little children wounded, and then hanged up by the flesh upon tenterhooks.  
There shall you find a poor Christian Protestant brought in naked laid upon a board, and the Irish insulting, after dinner drawing their swords, and at every healths drinking giving him a gash or wound (but not mortal) until his whole body becometh as it were one general wound, and thereafter they cast him upon a Dunghill, there to die partly of his wounds and partly of famine, none daring to relieve him.  
There may be found how the savage Irish took a wooden prick or broach, and thrust it up into the fundament of a Protestant, and then after draw him about the room with a joint stool to force the broach, until with extreme pain, he either fainted or gave content to the spectators, by some notable skips and frisks.  
There may you find, a poor Protestant surprised and (after stripping) his belly ripped up till they came to his small guts, one end whereof they tied to a branch of a tree, and then forced him to turn round the tree till all his bowels were pulled out. The cruel Monsters then saying, they would then try, whether his guts or a dogs were longer.  
Other incredible barbarous acts of their graceless Children you may find: As their going abroad in great troops, armed with long wattles and whips, wherewith they would beat men's bodies about their privy-members, until they beat or rather threshed them off. And then returning with great joy to their Parents, were by them received for such service, as if it were in triumph. And where they found any slain women being with their faces downward, those they would turn upon their backs, and in great flocks resort unto them; Censuring all parts of their bodies but especially such as are not to be named, which afterwards they abused so many ways as chaste ears would by no means hear.  
There you may find, their manner of shutting up in houses, and Churches several great numbers of Protestants: And those being strongly guarded and kept in, had those Churches and houses burned over their heads, and all they consumed in the flame.  
There you may find, the bloody butchers in a Church dissecting and quartering the father and the son, and then throwing their quarters at the head of the much wounded mother.  
There you may find some proper Gentlewomen hanged up by the hair of their heads in a tree a whole night and the next morning cut down, and life being found in them killed outright.  
There you may find three poor Protestant children (whose Parents were murdered) stripped naked, and turned out of their late father's house, and sheltering themselves in an Oven from the cold, fire was put after them, and there burned by the merciless wretches.  
A great bellied woman with her little children, flying away to save their lives, she by the fright and haste was suddenly delivered of a Child, which the pursuers dogs eat up and devoured, those villains there killing the Woman and the other Children.  
Several Gentlewoman's bellies ripped up, when great with Child, their children ripped up out of their wombs, and in that posture some hanged up.  
Some poor Gentlewomen in childbirth drowned their children half born.  
Young children tossed upon the Rebels pikes, who gloried in their destruction.  
Two Gentlewomen the daughters of a very aged decrepit father (all stripped naked) enforced to support their said father under each arm, to a bog pit of water, where they were all drowned together.  
The wife enforced to kill the husband, the son the mother, the daughter to kill the brother, and still the Rebels to kill the last bloud-shedder.  
There may you find very many Ministers, some drowned, some their heads and hands cut off, as they were upon their knees, praying before death, some hanged, some smothered, some drawn to death at horses tails, some tortured, famished, put to the sword, and others by various ways of torment cruelly brought to death.  
There you may find, some Protestants (whom the blondy Assassinats found to be fat and corpulent murdered, and Candles made of their grease.  
A good professor of God's truth was set and rammed upright in the earth all but the very head, to pine and starve, till Crows and Ravens picked out his eyes, and ravenous creatures devoured him.  
Great numbers buried quick, and one so intumulated, or kept in the earth with weight of stones and rubbish, that he cried out there a long time, his wife being lame, wounded and not able to help him out, yet scraped to his face, and to terminate his dolour (which she could not help) tied a handkerchiff over his mouth, and so stopped his breath.  
Very many good Protestants there were, some of which had the sols of their feet fried against thefire, some affrighted with a block and a hatchet, some drawn in a rope up and down the water, some half hanged and let down, some kept in the stocks till they rotten, many others cruelly tortured to confess their moneys, oftentimes when they had none left.  
Many stripped naked and imprisoned, there famished and starved, those that survived enduring hardship and miseries unspeakable.  
In finite numbers of Protestants (after fair quarter promised, and sworn to be given them) murdered by heaps in most lamentable and inhuman manner.  
The carcases and bones of many formerly deceased, worthy Christians, digged out of their graves, some cast into ditches, some upon dunghills, others upon hedges, banks, fields and open places, deprived of such burial as was denied to the late slaughtered English, the Rebels rejoicing to behold the bodies of the English in that condition, especially the Ministers, and the greatest professors of God's truth. Which Carcases (as is here proved) these Barbarians cast out like Carrion, or as the dead bodies of Dogs, or Swine, thereby showing what base esteem they had of them. And here this hellish crew do greatly insult, and rejoice at the deaths of the Lords Witnesses. Expressing such their joy by sending gifts and presents one to another, as if they had received some great benefit, or had heard the most comfortable news. The like things made the Holy Ghost say, The dead bodies of thy servants have they given to be meat for the fowls of Heaven, and the flesh of the Saints unto the beasts of the earth.  
I have here particularised but a very few of the barbarous cruelties, tortures, murders and massacres exercised upon the Protestants, and British; most, because Protestants, some, because British, though Papists. All, because British. The wicked and causeless quarrel of the present Rebels, being as. well Nationall, and Personal, as their pretended Religion. But these few may (I believe) induce you to read over the rest. The which because you may with the more facility find out, I have drawn several heads of all their Plots, Designs, and actions, and of the sufferings of the English and other Protestants, under each of which heads you shall find the names of the several Deponents or witnesses, proving the particulars of the things contained, and concerned in the same; together with the places and Counties where those Witnesses had residence.  
The Books of examinations being divided into Counties, and those Counties into the several Provinces, of Ulster, Lemster, Connaght, and Munster. Wherein, by the way you may observe, that as this last Plot was chief at the first laid by the Romish Priests and Friars, so they, (after their fury was made visible to the world) were the main actors, and bloody executioners of most of the cruelties. Aswel admonishing, as administering the Sacrament to the Soldiers, not to spare, but destroy the English and all Protestants. Amongst which murders and cruelties, it is to be observed, how the audacious Rebels often fell into high and threatening terms, sometimes against the High Court of Parliament in England, at other times against the Lords, Justices, and Council of Ireland, against all Protestants in general, but principally against the English, all which they vowed to destroy: and for that purpose to send forces (after they should have subdued and spoiled them in Ireland) into England, (as is afore mentioned,) with a full resolution, that none should draw breath but such as should acknowledge the Supremacy of the Pope, and profess the Romish Religion.  
And (which is to be much admired) the ancient English of the pall (being Papists) were by the instigation of the Priests and Friars, as much engaged in the Plot, and little less in the action, than the mere Irish, and every way as cruel in the execution as they. The truth being, that without their concurrence and partaking, (which both in number, value, and power fare exceed the mere Irish) those mere Irish (nevertheless their inveterate and scornful malice, and Brutish insolency) never could nor durst have attempted any such thing against the English at this time, but all joining in confederacy, it was resolved that the the English Protestants should be destroyed, and lose the Land of Ireland; And not so much as any living creature of the latter English race, permitted to have a being there. Insomuch as some of our witnesses complain, That the degenerated Palle-English were most cruel amongst the British Protestants, never being satisfied with their blood, until they had in a manner seen the last drop thereof.  
And the more to engage the inferiors of all these confederates in their wicked action, both the mere Irish, and the old English Papists shown in very many places a Parchment Writing with a broad seal thereunto, which they affirmed was a Commission from the King for disarming and destroying the Protestants, and for all that which they the Irish did. And because that none should stand out for want of seeing some authority. The Priests, Friars, and others in two places (as is proved in imitation) of the said original Commissions, framed and produced several writings, purporting to be the King's Commission, or to that purpose. By occasion whereof, all the rude multitude took further encouragement to execute their own wills, and wreak their causeless malice upon whom they pleased. Wherein they had no little assistance by their women and children. Who (as far as their power extended) were as active in cruelty as the men. So that the malice, strength, and power of them all, was dilated to the full, in the destruction and deaths of the Protestant English, so far, that incredible numbers must needs be cut off. For by the monthly bills brought in by their Priests (as commanded by Sir Phelim o Neal. It appeareth, that betwixt the beginning of the present Rebellion, and March then next ensuing, there were murdered and missing within the very Province of Ulster one hundred fifty four thousand of the British Protestants, which being but one of the four Provinces, what might the numbers of those extend unto of those destroyed in the whole Land.  
All which murders and cruelties the just God will now visit, as hath already in a great measure appeared, (the Lord be praised) both by the great and wonderful victories heretofore gained by our small Armies at the several battles, first near Wicklo, after at Swords, Finglasse, Kilsalghan, Kikrush, Lisnegarvy, Rockonell, Rosse, Trim, Clancurry, Ballentobber, Liscarrol, Knocknenott, Dunganhill, Dublin, and in several skirmishes in many parts of the Land, (wherein the Parliaments Armies, in respect of their numerous enemies were but as handfuls,) besides the taking in and regaining of several strong Garrisons, by small forces, under the command of that eminent and noble Colonel, Jones. Many of which, during the time of the unjust Treaty of peace, betwixt the marquis of Ormond and the Irish Rebels, were most wilfully (if not purposely) lost unto, and surprised, by the Irish. And shall we not now look towards Heaven, bless and praise the Lord of Hosts, for those, and the late glorious victories, which our noble and now brave army, have obtained since, under the command of that most honoured and heroic spirit, the Lieutenant General of the Parliaments forces of England; and now the fortunate Lord Governor of Ireland, how prosperous, how victorious, how prevalent is he, and all those both Commanders, and Soldiers under his conduct? Witness the winning of the strong Towers of Droghedah, Dundalk, Trim, Arkloe, Wexford, Rosse, Kinsale, Cork, Youghall, Carickfergus. etc.  
Besides the taking in and regaining of very many strong Garrisons, by the many skirmishes wherein the Parliaments parties have been still victorious, against the enemies great multitudes.  
In all which the wonderful hand of God hath been remarkably seen in strengthening those his faithful instruments, to execute his just judgements against that bloody and deceitful generation, in whose skirts are found much blood of Innocents'.  
If Jesuitical or Diobolical polices could have prevented the English forces, or retarded longer their going over with the now Lord Governor of Ireland (without doubt) it would have been done. All things for that end being attempted, that either mere man or the Devil could invent: For when all other shifts evasions, doubts, projects, and wicked inventions could not prevail, you may take notice what subtle and Sophistical Queres they cast out to dererre the Soldiers from going thither. Under which they have an inference of a supposed primary and most ancient right and interest of the mere Irish, to the Land of Ireland. Thereby (as much as possible) seeming to blemish the true and lawful interest of the English to that Land; which the most intelligent men know well enough, originally to have belonged to the British: and the Irish but a people that came to inhabit there by the permission of the British. But for the better satisfaction of the ingenious reader in that behalf, I refer him to the answer and resolution made to those Queres.  
I cannot here pass by that Tradition, or rather (as many of the Irish term it) a Prophecy which they have (and for a long time have had) amongst themselves, 
See Mrs. Suzanna Stockdale Com. Dublin her second examination. 146. deponent.  proved by Mrs. Susanna Stockdale in her deposition, which is, That in the year 1649, the Irish should weep over the English graves, which they had slaughtered. And that those Irish should all then be banished, saving a few which should be kept in vassalage by the English. How true this may prove I know not, nor would I therein engage any man's faith. But sure I am that in all probability, their actions have merited both from God and man, and put them into the high ways of absolute destruction, and fiercest vengeance which they might the more take into fear, did they but seriously receive into their thoughts what those hideous cries of revenge against their murders and other fatal meteors, signs, 
See all the dep. under the head concerning God's judgement, etc.  and wonders in the firmament, the water, earth and fire (which have been seen and known to succeed their bloody cruelties) do portend; and thereby be the more terrified to expect Gods heavy laying their iniquities on their own heads, the rather in that they have seen those Articles of peace, made at several times by the marquis of Ormond with these Cannibals, 
See the two several books of articles made by the Lord of Ormond.  (so destructive to the Protestant sufferers, and their religion) and wherein such large pardons and concessions are given to the Rebels, have been rendered fruitless, being justly condemned with suitable Anathames.) One of which Articles was that all inquiries, indictments, outlaryes, and other proceed against these Rebels (whereof those examinations were part) should be vacated and extinguished: which I am sure had been done accordingly, to these examinations especially, had they not secretly and on a sudden been conveyed away hither; which could not possibly have been done, had not an honest and worthy English Merchant (at my request) closely and covertly passed them away as Merchandise (amongst other of his Goods) at that time, (so full of danger) when neither such things, nor so much as a man must pass over out upon pain of death, without special licence. Which all men might rest confident, would not have been granted in that behalf by the then Lieutenant the Earl of Ormond. But it pleased God they should be transported to be published to the world. Whereby the justness of the War now undertaken may be mantained, the deep sufferings of the English and the execrable designs, plots, and actions of the most inhuman and cruel Irish Rebels, may be manifested and left to posterity, and the Common wealth of England now on this so pregnant provocation, and universal conspiracy, resolve (by God's blessing) to settle a firm assurance to all those English that shall hereafter adventure to improve the English interest in Ireland, and at last put it into a case plentifully to retribute to England, for their moneys, deep expenses of blood and treasure. Whereunto (the better to iuduce them) it may be taken into consideration. That in all ages especially, since about the middle of the reign of King Richard the second, after the old English were degenerated, when they could but obtain the least opportunity or advantage, they have in every age raised several Rebellions, at no time repressed, without great trouble and damage to England, and without any return of profit to England, except what by the late habitation of the English hath been raised. And which is most remarkable, you shall find in all the stories of those times. That when those unnatural Rebels could no longer stand out, than who more humble and full of submissive flatteries than they, but once taken into mercy: which from time to time they obtained from the indulgent English (expecting their reducement.) They thereby only gained breath, and more concurrents to invent and act new ways of supplanting, spoiling, and extirpating those that had the most pity of them. I speak not this that mercy should be denied to whom may be thought worthy of it, yet sure it is, that if for the multiplied and itterated Rebellions, and inhuman acts of the Irish, the long abused English make a great destruction of them, (which God seems to dictate in the many strange victories) lately granted by him against them. It will come short of Lex talionis: yea, it will be nothing so much as the Irish ever resolved to execute against the true undoubted ancient Proprietors of that Land, the English: which may be the more taken to heart, in that it hath been, and is evident, that there can be no safety in cohabitation with them. And there is none into whose hand God puts the sword of vengeance, that can without extreme contumacy and disobedience deny to execute his divine will.  
And now lest this Proem seem too long, I shall lead the worthy Reader, first to the particular Heads and Charges against these Monsters of men, and to the Heads of other Occurrences interlaced, with them and then to the Examinations themselves. Which as is promised before (with all possible speed) must be Printed.  
T. W.   

Observations  
To what hath been said in the precedent leaves as concerning matter of fact, and true representation of that incomparable Murder, so there is nothing to be added, and it were but impertinency and provocation to abuse the Reader with any further instances, and not give him up to his own resentments and inductions.  
To husband therefore this little room which remains, I cannot fall upon a Method either more natural or regular, then to take a view of the causes, concernments and circumstances, of that odious Conjuration, and from thence descend to some such observations, as cannot (without stupidity) be passed, or impiety, neglected.  
FIrst then, whosoever will take the Irish at the right view, will find them a root of such a profound sloth, and lethargic Supinitie, that they will say, they are merely a kind of Reptilia, things creeping on their bellies, and feeding on the dust of the earth, overborne with their natural frigidity, and impossible to be excited into any heat, unless it be that feverish distemper, which sometimes stirs up the most unworthy minds to violent executions. Add to this, their Innate and Epidemic Laziness which for many ages hath been so inherent to them, that they could never be stirred, neither by their own necessities or discomdities of life, to that requisite industry, which even the most barbarous, and the best seated people are forced to make use of; Nor yet by the conversation and culture of the more polite English, could be shaped into any adumbration of Civility and tersnesse, but still remain a people so tightly savage, so barbarously loathsome, so monstrously inclined, that they were as uncapable of any impressions of virtue and honour, as they have showed themselves susceptible of the most bestial lewdness, and consummate impiety. With these qualifications, they are a people (we may suppose not so fit to bid defiance to a King entirely possessed with the strength of three kingdoms, and without visible enemy, although there cannot be denied them so much of a punic lightness and rash prevarication, as to have staggared into more defections than any people ever yet heard of. Yet were these defections but flashy transportations of weak & abject minds, which having once spent their first vigour, immediately quit them into their former languor, and left thus merely in a condition of despair and deprecation. Where as this last, what by the strength of its first impressions, and heat of it's after influences, what by the want of resistance (bloodily detained from it) hath rather appeared a formal regular War, than a Spartacryot, and in stead of a short and momentary continuance, hath extended itself to the duration of many years; besides the irremediable Cowardice of that people, never durst break out into any open effort, unless it were backed by some strong Foreign assurances, or assistances, or flattered by our divisions and diversions, or promoted by their own misconceived oppressions and feigned burdens. But in that posture of affairs at their Rebellion, there was no such matter, for from Spain which (partly out of their own ambition, partly out of that detestable zeal to the See of Rome, was commonly wont to lend them fuel to every petulant insurrection) was not now in a condition to do it. For both the fleet under Oquendo (which was more than conjecturally supposed to have been designed for Ireland) was discipated in the Downs, and Spain herself was at that time so beset, and assaulted, that it was visible to any eye, that she could not afterwards drive any considerable assistance to the holy cause of Antichrist, and innocent conventions of Cannibals. And for other nations, the Irish were too much disinteressed and disreputed, and we too strong in friends and repute for them to expect thence any valuable advantage.  
For the second, we at home were not then only of one piece, but were as powerful as we had been for many ages before. Nay, and what was more, we had a Parliament at that time sitting, such a one as daily satisfied the expectations and needs of the people by pious reformations and just compliances, so that it was not to be thought, but that they who were effectively a whole people, could not be as powerful in their punishments, as they were serious and earnest in their resentments of such an execrable attempt.  
For the third, they were certainly very peevish if they were discontented, for they had not only a Lord Lieutenant according to their own hearts (Strafford) but the severity of the Laws against them as disarmed, or at least a sleep; they were equally capable of immunities and honours with the English; And that superstitious and Antic garb of worship was so public, that not only the severity of the late Lord Chancellor Loftus, and the Earl of Cork in that matter was eluded, But Paul Harris, Sir Toby Mathews, etc. (many Sticklers of the See of Room) were in sight and favour; nay some (who have had the best reason and longest time to observe it) have affirmed there have been three Mass Houses (one at Naas a new built seat for Strafford) open, for one Protestant Church.  
All this set together, must necessarily yield us this result, that there must be some more secret course than ordinary, or stranger Coyuntura that quickened the feeds of this horrid Rebellion, and cherished it into form and shape; for otherwise how could it be that those men to whom (though Rebellion) have been so natural and necessary, that (not to mention their revolts from their first reduction) even in the flourishing times of Queen Elisabeth, they nine times forsook their obedience, could for forty years, fawn upon the Government they so much abhorred; if they could have strengthened their inclinations with any hopes or imaginations of success? Certainly he is not skilled, either in the use of things, or nature of the people that thinks they could. But those subtle heads that conducted them, saw that there was nothing to be attemped, for both our affairs were quiet and settled, and the severity of our discipline was not utterly lost; so that neither could they with much prudence do any thing of themselves, or with much assurance attempt the debauching of men in authority, who did not then appear such absolutely professed Hucksters and Brokers of their Country, as they might be hoped to be won to parley, All that that viperous generation could do, (and these were the Jesuits, or Jesuited) was with all their diligence and Artifice, to possess these people with a blind and sottish preoccupation, and then to cast such wild fire into their passions, that they might be directed to nothing which they should not presently act, nor act any thing wherein they might not show such brutish and insatiate cruelty, as might over revenge the greatest jujuries, secure the greatest Cowardice, and glut the vilest Inhumanity.  
And how effectual all this provision was, and how fit Myrmidons they had to instruct, was seen in those fatal butcheries which fill the other Pages: For whether these unnatural monsters (or rather Fiends informing humane carcases) were not in all numbers perfected in cruelty, perfidy, and licentious impiety. He hath little reason, sense or observation, that cannot judge.  
Yet durst not they (as he said) have put this into action, (though they earnestly waited and thirsted after it) had they not found the Court of England in a condition to be tampered with, and the same Court also (loaded with its iniquities, and boding eminent vengeance) willing to strike a league with any that might underprop them; and from hence (no doubt) began this evil to take both root and life, and its Mercurial Projectors to put it in agitation; which wrought so throughly upon a Popish gangrened Court, and an Uxorious perverse King, that it broke forth with that storm and impetuosity, that (had not God mightily owned his own cause) it was likely to have shaked the foundation of three Nations.  
For why should the naked and raw Irish (that had neither preparation for War nor intelligence) rush on a design which the most powerful Prince in Europe would hardly have embarked in? how could all have been so generally engaged, even to them of the pall, without some strong allurements or fair Commissions? What signified those midnight debates of Muskery and Plunket (Principal Actors after,) with the King, to the amazement and dejection of that honest remnant at Court? How came these bloody wretches such Patrons of the King's cause? and though they abominated his pretended Religion, to agree with him in eodem tertio against the Parliament? For it appears by Mervin Stewards 8. c. Depositions, that the Prerogative was a main ground of their Rebellion. Nay their interest and greatest security was involved in it. Nor wanted there on the King's side either reasons of interest, or (it may be) great design: for by the destruction of the Protestants, the Irish were entire, and at leisure for his service, and so might be assistant to him against the prevailing Puritan faction (as he called it) in his two other Realms; Or (to put the most moderate gloss upon so fowl an action) he did suppose that that eruption would only have struck a terror, and have been soon appeased, and not have brought with it such a violent and continual storm of mischiefs. Or was it a serious desire to divert the Parliament, from these prosecutions of liberty, to which he perceived them earnestly to incline. Howsoever, certainly he that will but diligently examine Circumstances, must needs find him transcendently guilty, (for it is no cruelty to the dead, to examine those actions 〈…〉 God hath so severely punished and avenged) for if we find him the Author of the Rebellion, (as we shall bring some shrewd instances) we must needs affirm, that though his Theatrical piety and high dissimulation, hath deceived some of his followers into Adoration, yet to all men that have not a mist before their eyes, he will appear a person distained with so much blood, and loaden with so many crimes, that he was equal to all past Tyrants in his iniquities, as he will be exemplary to all future by his punishment. Or if we find him but an assister or a complier, (for this is the least we can do, yet less than we ought) let even his own Divines who could so dextrously Incrustate and opiate his conscience, themselves be Judges, whether his concurrence with such savage fiends, his easy forgiveness of so much blood, his compliance with Idolatry, and that against so many solemn vows and imprecations, were not many provocations of the Divine vengeance, which so transcendently and exemplarily fell upon him.  
To clear up this I know not any better way than by representing his actions, (and that without either exageration, or imposture) and carriages about the time and after that fatal violence, which it seems wrought so little upon him, that many actors in it were shortly seen with him, and his own Cessation with the Irish declares, he knew how to forget it, and make it to contribute to his own corrupt ends, which will appear the more manifest, if we take but the pains to look over those particulars, which even in the midst of their complementing (to say so) times, the Parliament did not stick to object against him, with as great assurance, as he declined to answer them with difidence, or (to speak in the words of servile flattery itself) prudent dissimulation, for whosoever (to remark it by the way) shall observe all his Declarations, or that venomous fraudulent Pamphlet under his name, he must needs see how unwiling and tender he is, when he comes to touch on this string; but instead of bringing any probable arguments to avoid it, he Lancheth out whole volleys of daring curses upon himself and his, or else falls upon contrary recriminations of the Parliament, that The Irish might allege them for imitation, whose blame must be the greater, 
〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Chap. 12.  by how much Protestant Principles, are more against Rebellion than Papists. Three lies impudently stuffed together.  
First, that the Parliament gave example to the Rebels. Next, that they are more to blame. Thirdly, that Protestantisme puts people into an incapacity to right themselves, or calling to acount. (This he means by the word Rebellions, Tyrants!) Will you have any more? for never were falsities so closely and nicely couched, as in that deceitful Peace,) Many wise men thought that preposterous rigour and unreasonable severity, blew up those sparks of discontent. How divelishly is the pious care of Religion in the Parliament made a cause of so much blood and miseries? But hark what he hath to say for the Rebels. Fear of utter exterpation, continuance of oppression, some Principles of their Religion, Natural desire of liberty, made them endeavour to exempt themselves from after rigour, threatened by the covetous zeal and uncharitable fury of some men. See how Satirical he is on the one side, whilst for the other he brings arguments so passionate and emphatical, as the greatest Advocate might make use of. Nor see I (indeed) how stronger can be brought, than those he falsely brings in this place, which he makes use of for the Irish to go on; he says Next to the sin of those, is theirs, who hindered the speedy suppressing of it by Domestic disentions, diverting aids. (which we shall prove he did,) Only you may know whom they would have us mean, and exasperated the Rebels to desperate resolutions, by threatening extremity on their heads! Obdurate man given up to thine own blindness and hardness of heart, thou couldst not have said any thing fuller of Atheistical spleen, or uncharitable looseness. Those men must march on the lefthand of such Devils, for professing their zeal and uprightness to the cause of God, which to have handled luke-warmly, had been sin of a crying nature; to have deserted, had been to share in the vengeance of those wicked wretches, and to have brought on their own heads that shame and vengeance which for the cause fell on them. These are his latest and dying reflections of that business which we shall now return into, from the necessary digressions.  
Thus there was a predisposition in the Court of England for such designs as these; we shall need only to remember that in the second year of his reign, (To indulge Popery, by Christening, Marrying, Suspending proceed against Papists, To allow sueing out Liveries and Ousterlemains by the Papists, without taking the oath of Allegiance. This design which (for a sum of money was to bring in further toleration of Religion) was protested against by the Irish Bishops, by writing under their hands of the 26. of November 1626. and the Commons of England in their Remonstrance the thrird of Carolus, did inform that Popery was professed, and Monastries replenished every where, desiring him to take the advice of themselves and Bishops into consideration. Yet,  
In the fourth year of his Reign, those Propositions and Graces with additions did he grant in consideration of one hundred and twenty thousand pounds, to be levied upon the Kingdom in general, so that the poor Protestants were illegally oppressed to gain the Papists Immunities.  
Many notorious Papists were created Peers, whereby the Popish votes in the Lord's house increased, and the Papists became more powerful and exemplary in their Counties.  
When the Lord Chancellor Loftus, and the Earl of Cork were Lords-Justices; and endeavoured to put down Mass-houses; and amongst the rest, converted one (in Backlane in Dublin) to a College, where Lectures were read, (which the Lords-Justices did to the encouragement of Protestants) yet when Strafford came, the Scholars were displaced, and it became a Mass-house again.  
The Popish Irish Army was kept on foot long after the beginning of the Parliament, and contrary to their desires, whereby those execrable villains learned the knowledge of Arms, under the pretence of fight against Scotland.  
And that Led might not be wanting to the completing of this intended Rebellion, (I use the very words of that excellent Declaration of the 25. of July 1643.) as it had been in the last great Rebellion there, the Silver-mynes of that Kingdom (which afforded great store of Lead) were farmed out by his Majesty, to two (most pernicious) Papists, Sir Bazill Brooke, and Sir George Hamilton; In whose houses (upon search) divers barrels of Musquet-bullets were found.  
Before the Rebellion Strafford had (by violent endeavour) entitled his Majesty by office, to five whole Counties, and a great part of two other, whereby a way was made to increase Religion, Plantations and Safety: Which the Committee (sent over for complaint of Grievances) did never complain of, (as conceiving it distasteful) yet when the King had offered to restore it to the Proprietors, and the Lords-Justices importuned him to the contrary, and the than Parliament had discovered much of the Irish Counsels, than (subtleties no longer serving them) was new projected and allowed this hideous Rebellion, (that after fell out) by Gormondston, Muskery, Plunket, Linch and Browne, who were consulted with, and carrased at Whitehall, had private conference with the King in the Queen's presence; And what agreement was made may easily be imagined, (for witnesses are not to be expected at a conspiracy, of such importance) by the Kings giving away five whole Counties (after so great an endeavour of many years to entitle him to them, accounting it a Masterpiece of Strafford) and that for the yearly rent of two thousand pounds. When in searching Records, and measuring the land it had cost the King more than ten thousand pounds out of his Coffers.  
Let any compare the judulgence with the Injustice to the Londoners in Derry and Colrain, (which shows land in Ireland worth owning) when there is no recompense for parting with it: For the King told the Committee of Ireland, That since he had parted with so much of his right, he must be recompensed some other way: And he would soon infer that so large a Donative (especially considering the bountiful nature of that King) was not sown upon the sand.  
And that these blades might not be wanting in the requital of so considerable a favour, they returned into Ireland, in August after, where how that they bestirred themselves may appear: For in the three and twentieth of October following, the rebellion broke forth in Ulster.  
To these violent presumptions, must be added the concurrence of the English Papists, to this business, as is copiously proved by the Depositions forementioned, and the repair of Castlehaven, Young, Porter, Endymion's own son, Sir Bazill Brooke and Browne the Lawyer into Ireland, where they were main sticklers in that heinous Rebellion.  
Nay in that month of October (fatal for that deluge of blood) the Lord Dillon Costiloghe (an Irish Rebel) went from Scotland from the King, into Ireland with his Majesty's letters, (by the Queen's means) to be sworn Privy Councillor, which was no sooner done, but he presents to the Lords Justices & Council an insolent letter of Remonstrance, of some inhabitants of the County of Longford, wherein they unreasonably demand Toleration, repealing of Laws etc. Nay, & this Lord might by his motion testify that he was alive: For in the following December, he with the new Lord Taaff, came into England with instructions in writing from Gormonston and others, to solicit with his Majesty in their behalf, which (it seems they did so effectually, that they in his Majesty's name encouraged the Rebels, as may appear by a signal Deposition of Col. jepson. Who saw two Letters of theirs sent to Muskery, intimating, That though it did not stand with the conveniency of his Majesty's affairs to give him public countenance, yet his Majesty was pleased with what he did; and would in good time give him thanks for it.  
This though discovered to the Lord Falkland then Secretary, and though Colonel jepson stayed a week after in Oxford, was so coldly entertained, that neither the Colonel was called to account, nor the Lords lessened of their freedom and favour.  
Nay the said Taaff, was afterwards employed with Roch and Brent (too active Papists) taking with them Colonel Barry one of the same fry, to carry the King's letters from Oxford to Dublin. From whence they made away for Kilkeny, where there was to be (soon after) a general assembly of the Rebels: which Errand when they had performed, Barry was left Leaguer at Kilkenny, Taaff, returned to Dublin.  
Taaff with divers of disaffected Privy-Councellours of Ireland, meets at Ormonds' house, to debate the Irish Propositions, and Brent returns to Oxford to give an account of the Negotiation. By this we may the better conceive what the King meant by that delusory offer to go into Ireland. Whether it were under this plausible pretence to get a Guard about him, and by that degree a considerable force, or when he was once there either to make a Cessation advantageous to himself, or else to join with them; however, it was a pretence good enough to decline Signing and Confessions, (advantageous to his subjects in England) and increase Jealousies at home, and retard the business of the Parliament (than in full heat and action) whatever it were: Certain it is, that there lurked within it somewhat of deep design, and very exquisite mischief; For, even the very Rebels could without Prospective see it, and without a Devil foretell it. For, Tirlogh o Neal could (as appears by Master Stewarts examination, taken the eighth day of July 1643.) tell, that the King was to be soon in Ireland, and Sir Phelim o Neal could give out, that the troubles of England would ere long call away Leisley to assist them. Nor is it any wonder that these people were so perfect in the King's designs, and so foreseeing of our troubles, when they were part both of the interest and Plot, that in deed (if you will take their own words) the King's cause and theirs, were fundamentally and really one, though pollitically and spetiously divided. How else should Tirlogh o Neal, and Roger o Moor (as is in Master Stewarts mentioned Deposition) say, That Religion, the Lands escheated, and the King's Prerogative, were the prime causes of their rising in Arms? That they knew well the best in England would side with them? That they had good warrant in black and white for what they did? That when he objected the Power of England would he brought against them, they replied, That there was little fear of that, for the troubles in England were but then in beginning, and would not end in haste. And how else could Rory Maguyre say, That they (the Parliament) invaded the King's Prerogative, in which their greatest security reposed? That this great undertaking, was never an act of one or two giddy silly fellows? They had their party in England, Scotland, etc. which should soon be as deep in blood as themselves? That the Plot had been of ancient date, and many times discontinued, and but lately revived, and prosecuted from Candelmas last passed. (Note the time of Gormanston and the rest procuring the five Counties) before the Rebellion both in England and Scotland. All is deposed by that Apostate Awdley Mervin, (whose sister, Maguire married) who heard it from many more (as himself deposeth) of considerable quality; Nay, Why did they of the pall declare, to join with the Irish to recover to his Majesty his Royal Prerogative, wrung from him by the Puritan faction, Why was the Design called the Queen's pious intentions? 
Decl. 9 March 1641.  Why did Rossetti (the Pope's Nuncio) enjoin Fasting and Prayer amongst the Papists? Why were the Protestants called Rebels to the Queen? How came the Rebels to assume the King's Authority, Nay boldly aver they had his Commission: Insomuch that the Major of Kinsale writes, That they uttered things concerning the Court of England, which he durst not put to Paper.  
And now let any man lay his hand upon his heart, and say whether or no he can acquit this man of these things. Certainly ignorance in this case could not be pretended even to people that had but the bare use of common sense; and to be passive in a business of this nature, must needs be a sin not much less than violent action: But to give encouragement and growth to such abominable Monsters (as from what has been laid down, must needs be clear to every dispassioned Judgement, especially since such uncontrollable presumption may serve in the works of darkness) is such an offence, that it must needs lead any sober and searching mind in a clear trace of the Divine vengeance upon it. God indeed is secret & marvellous in executing his wrath, and many times openly punisheth unknown crimes, and many times dissembles the seeing of crying offences: But in this case, both the one and the other were equally visible, and we may without uncharitableness, affirm, That for these things was this man rooted out of the Land.  
We have now viewed him on the Divels-side of the Meddal, let us now behold him on the Saintside, and find out one of the most illustrious dissimulations that ever attested Piety: a dissimulation which a Heathen, under the crepusculous days of nature, would have started back at; and have imagined it, either beyond punishment, or else meriting Judgements and Torments severer than any he knew. A dissimulation by a Protestant King in behalf of Traitorous Papists, and that to lull and stupefy his own subjects, (and of his own Religion) into blood and destruction.  
The minds of men were not yet so tightly debauched, but they were open to the serious manifestation of their Representatives, nor the King's business in such a posture, that he might declare and justify his proceed, nor his Innocence such, as he might vindicate himself. And therefore to these Remonstrative objections of the Parliament, he had nothing to say; but such whole peals of solemn and dire imprecations, as if he thought Perjury lawful and essential to his calling: Or else Divinity to be a mere Mormo and staring Rodomontade. Or else he had utterly forgot what he had designed some months before; or were asleep to all his present actions or carriages; or had been informed with a new soul, when he had acted those things which he did afterwards.  
For instances, they throng upon us (Reader prepare thy horror) in his speech to the Committee at Newark the ninth of March 1641. God will discover the secret of Plots and Treasons. He shall stand right in the eyes of his people. My fears are greater for the Protestant Relegion than for my own Rights or safety. God so deal with me and mine, as all my thoughts are upright for the maintenance of the Protestant Religion and Laws, etc. Thus in his Message of the eighth of April 1642. He assures them, he will never, upon any pretence whatsoever, consent to a toleration of the Popish Religion in Ireland, or abolition of the Laws in force against the Papists, which how strictly he kept, look in Ormonds' Pacification 1648. Where you may see, the first Article quits them of the oath of Supreamicy; The second puts into the hand of an Irish Parliament, to repeal Poinings Act. The 22. (O ridiculous indulgence and servile compliances) repeals those Acts prohibiting to blow with horses by the tail, and burn Oats in the straw. The ninth entrusteth them with the Militia, which the King swore, or (in the Parliaments language) strongly assevered by God, at Newmarket, he would not trust the Parliament with, for an hour; and grants, till the performance, an Army of 20000 men. All which put together signifies the alienation of all Ireland. Or will you hear him when he was about to die? (for certainly any man that considers the choice of the subjects of the Black-book cleanly, cannot but acknowledge he writ it in his later time, on purpose to abuse the people into credulity and favour of his actions, and so poison them after his death.) If I have desired or delighted in the woeful day of my Kingdoms Calamities (and yet he was the cause.) If I have not earnestly studied the preventing of those bloody distractions, then let thy hand be upon me and my Father's house, etc. Which, to the great praise of the Divine Justice, we see accomplished.  
You see how he hath dared the omniscient ear of Providence, and you have seen with what event, and no doubt among mankind (at least the better and reasonable part) his name will also stink when they are throughly convinced of his odious and unkingly Dissimulation; Which besides its own unworthiness, must needs add a great weight to the presumptions of his guilt.  
These detestable Cyclops, had at first from him, their due attributes. There was no expressions too tart or indignatory for them. In his answer to the Declaration August 1642. he calls it a bloody Massacre. In his speech to them of Denbigh and Flintshire 1643. he calls it, an horrid bloody and impious Rebellion.  
In his answer to the Petition of the 8 of April 1042. he calls the Irish, Barbarous Rebels, authors of great calamities and unheard of cruelties, to his Protestant subjects.  
In his message of the eighth of April 1642. He calls them, Wicked and detestable Rebels, odious to God and all good men.  
And yet notwistanding all these smart and home expressions and manifestations, (and his zealous celerity in prosecuting Scotland) it was long ere (upon desire of both houses) he could be persuaded to proclaim them Rebels, (notwithstanding they called themselves the Queen's Army) and at last three months after, he would suffer but forty to be printed, and those warily dispersed. Yet was this but a faint courtesy to what he did for them other wise, all designs of the Parliament for their punishment were obviated by him and frustrated; all succours sent, averted or detained to maintain an unnatural War against his Portestant Subjects.  
Take a few instances, (we could be copious were plenty necessary) he would not grant a Committee to be sent into Ireland, he deterred the Officers of Lemster from new subscription (which he thought was a probable way to reducethat Province without charges,) then in motion in Parl. Nay when some well-affected had prepared twelve ships and six pinnaces, he would grant no Commission till they were forced to go by Ordinance of Parliament. When the Lords Justices of Ireland sent for two pieces of Battery, he by express command hindered any to be delivered out of the Tower. Floid and Green, he recalled from the Irish service. straddling and Kettlesby, he called away from the Irish Coasts, when they lay there on purpose to prevent the carrying in of Ammunition. Nay, much provision designed thither, by his forces he plundered, and many of the Parliaments ships, by his letters of Mart, were seized on; as may largely appear in the Collection of Declarations p. 250. & subsequentibus. To add to all this, his fraudulent delaying & dallying of the Earl of Leicester, as may appear by the Earls own letter, of the 26. of Sept. 1642: yea when the Irish were almost starved (though loaden with so much guilt and blood) yet could they procure a Commission to examine their grievances; and at last had a Cessation granted them, which the King (for sooth) saith, was to save the remainder of his Protestant subjects.  
And now Reader, stand still and see the most notorious perfidy both in a King and his Rebels (or to say better) his Confederates that ever was, how God hath punished the one, is as visible as a Sunbeam, since he (as he made up the iniquities, so he) hath found the Tragical Catastrophe (yet by lawful and just means and pleasing to God) of his predecessors, and remains a terror and example to all that shall come after him: And for them, he is blind that seethe them not at the brink of the pit, and he is accursed that shall offer to stay them: and therefore let them into whose hands God hath put the sword of his wrath, take heed lest they use it either coldly, partially, or negligently; lest God smite them, and raise up others to execute his just vengeance. And what a sin it will be to be even moderate in a work so pleasing to God, let their own consciences be Judges. God will not be dallied with, he hateth shedding of innocent blood. Breach of Oaths and Rebellion, which were never more sublime and horrid than in those people, whom certainly he is resolved to blow as chaff from the face of the earth. And therefore cannot but severely punish any luke warmness (for mercy to them is no other) in his instruments.  
And indeed it is observable, that as God hath mightily punished those sinful concurrences of the King, and wicked Cessations and compliances of Ormond & his Complices, so hath he led our army, as it were by the hand, in giving them Tredarth, and his almost mediate interpositions of Articles of Surrender at Wexford. And after those two just and acceptable executions, hath more vigorously protected and gone along with them. The hearts of their enemies being filled with trembling, and the gates of the City, in a manner, thrown down before them.  
Nor indeed is there any policy (were the other confederations nothing) to strike a league with such unfaithful, wretched, cruel, savage, accursed people as they are, unless we should be cumbered with a despicable crew of wretches, and neglect one of the bravest pieces of Justice that ever was put into the hands of people. And therefore, we may warantably, and righteously endeavour the extirpation of them, who by their hellish designs, and accomplished Parricides, have endeavoured, and highly attempted, to make us to be no more a people.  
FINIS.