decorative border HONI: SOIT: QVI: MAL: Y: PENSE A book OF PROCLAMATIONS, published since the beginning of his majesties most happy reign over England, &c. Untill this present month of Febr. 3. Anno Dom. 1609. IMPRINTED AT London by Robert Barker, Printer to the Kings most Excellent majesty. Cum privilegio. seal flanked by crowned lion and unicorn ❀ HONI ❀ SOIT ❀ QVI ❀ MAL ❀ Y ❀ PENSE ❀ dieu ET MON DROIT THE TABLE ¶ Anno Primo jacobi Regis. 1 A Proclamation, declaring the undoubted Right of our sovereign Lord King james, to the crown of the realms of England, France and Ireland. Pag. 1. 2 A Proclamation, signifying his majesties pleasure, That all men being in Office of government at the death of the late queen Elizabeth, should so continue till his majesties further direction. pag. 3. 3 A Proclamation, declaring at what valves certain Moneys of Scotland, shal be currant within England. pag. 6. 4 A Proclamation for the dispatch of packets between London and Berwicke, for the service of the King. pag. 7. 5 A Proclamation for the Kings attendance, and receiving by the Sheriffes of the several Counties. pag. 8. 6 A Proclamation for the discovery and apprehension of William Ruthen and patrick Ruthen, brethren to the late earl of Gowry. pag. 9. 7 A form of Proclamation to bee proclaimed by the clerk of the Market, and he to see it executed touching prices of Victuals. pag. 11. 8 A Proclamation inhibiting the use and execution of any Charter or Grant made by the late queen Elizabeth, of any kind of Monopolies, &c. pag. 12. 9 A Proclamation against unlawful Hunting. pag. 15. 10 A Proclamation charging all actors or partners in the incursion on the Borders, to resort to the Commissioners at a day limited. pag. 17. 11 A Proclamation for the uniting of England and Scotland. pag. 18. 12 A Proclamation commanding Gentlemen to depart the Court and city. pag. 20. 13 A Proclamation that no man abuse the earl of Tyrone. pag. 21. 14 A Proclamation concerning the patents for tin. pag. 22. 15 A Proclamation concerning Warlike ships at Sea. pag. 23. 16 A Proclamation for the adjournment of part of trinity term. pag. 25. 17 A Proclamation for the apprehension of Anthony Copley pa. 27 18 A Proclamation for reformation of great abuses in Measures. pag. 29. 19 A Proclamation signifying the Kings majesties pleasure, touching the resort of people to his Coronation. pag. 33. 20 A Proclamation for Iustice to bee indifferently ministered to the Subiects of England and Scotland. pag. 34. 21 A Proclamation for the deferring of S. james Faire, for certain dayes. pag. 36. 22 A Proclamation for the apprehension of certain conspirators. pag. 37. 23 A Proclamation enjoining all Lieutenants, and Iustices of Peace to repair into their Countries, and all idle persons to depart the Court. pag. 38. 24 A Proclamation prohibiting the keeping of Bartholomew Faire, and Sturbridge Faire. pag. 40. 25 A Proclamation against Inmates and multitudes of dwellers in straight rooms and places in and about the city of London. And for the rasing and pulling down of certain new erected buildings. pag. 41. 26 A Proclamation for the adjournment of part of Michaelmas term. pag. 42. 27 A Proclamation for the due and speedy execution of the Statute against Rogues, Vagabonds, idle and dissolute persons. pag. 44. 28 A Proclamation to repress all Piracies and Depredations vpon the Sea. pag. 46. 29 A Proclamation for the further adjournment of part of Michaelmas term from Westminster to Winchester. pag. 49. 30 A Proclamation concerning such as seditously seek reformation in Church matters. pag. 53. 31 A Proclamation against the unlawful conveying of goods between the two realms of England and Scotland. pag. 55. 32 A Proclamation for transplantation of the Greames. pag. 56. 33 A Proclamation concerning the choice of Knights and Burgesses for the Parliament. pag. 57. 34 A Proclamation commanding all Iesuites, Seminaries and other priests, to depart the realm by a day appointed. pag. 61. 35 A Proclamation for the authorizing and uniformity of the book of Common prayer to be used throughout the realm. pag. 64. 36 Orders for thorough posts, and Curriers, riding in post in our affairs. pag. 67. 37 Orders for the posts of our realms, and for all men to observe and obey in the speedy carriage of packets, directed for our affairs. pag. 70. ¶ Anno secundo jacobi Regis. 38 A Proclamation for the true Winding or folding of wools. pag. 72. 39 A Proclamation forbidding Londoners to resort to bristol Faire. pag. 75. 40 A Proclamation for the prices of Victuals within the Verge of the Court. pag. 76. 41 A Proclamation enjoining conformity to the form of the service of GOD established. pag. 76. 42 A Proclamation appointing the day and place for the meeting of the Commissioners of England and Scotland. pag. 80. 43 A Proclamation against selling of Ships. pag. 81. 44 A Proclamation concerning the Kings majesties style, of King of Great britain, &c. pag. 82. 45 A Proclamation for the search and apprehension of certain Pirates. pag. 85. 46 A Proclamation for coins. pag. 86. 47 A Proclamation for the proroguing of the Parliament. pa. 90. 48 A publication concerning all sorts of Gold and silver thread, granted by his majesties Letters patents under the Great seal. pag. 91. 49 A Proclamation concerning Leases and Asserts. pag. 95. 50 A Proclamation for revocation of Mariners from foreign services. pag. 98. 51 A Proclamation for Buildings, in& about London. pag. 101. ¶ Anno tertio jacobi Regis. 52 A Proclamation concerning Assart Lands. pag. 104. 53 A Proclamation with certain Ordinances to bee observed by his majesties Subiects toward the King of spain. pag. 105. 54 A Proclamation for proroguing the Parliament. pag. 108. 55 A Proclamation to redress the mis-imployment of lands, Goods, and other things given for Charitable uses. pag. 109. 56 A Proclamation against certain calumnious surmises concerning the Church government of Scotland. pag. 111. 57 A Proclamation for the annihilating of Commissions formerly granted for taking up of Hounds, &c. pag. 113. 58 A Proclamation for the search and apprehension of Thomas Percy. pag. 114. 59 A Proclamation denouncing Thomas percy and other his adherents to be Traitors. pag. 115. 60 A Proclamation promising reward to him that shall apprehended Thomas percy. pag. 117. 61 A Proclamation for the searching for, and apprehending of Robert Winter, and Stephen Littleton. pag. 118. 62 A Proclamation warranting Sheriffes to prosecute Rebels into other Counties. pag. 118. 63 A Proclamation for the apprehension and discovery of John Gerrard, Henry Garnet, and Oswald Tesmond. pag. 120. 64 A Proclamation touching a seditious rumour suddenly raised. pag. 122. ¶ Anno quarto jacobi Regis. 65 A Proclamation declaring what Flags South and North Britaines, shall bear at Sea. pag. 123. 66 A Proclamation for prevention of future abuses in purveyance. pag. 123. 67 A Proclamation charging all Iesuites, Seminaries, &c. to depart the land. pag. 129. 68 A Proclamation for the search and apprehension of certain Pirates. pag. 132. 69 A Proclamation touching Passengers. pag. 133. 70 A Proclamation for the adjournment of part of Michaelmas term. pag. 135. 71 A Proclamation forbidding all Londoners and other inhabitants of places infected, to resort to the Court. pag. 137. ¶ Anno quinto jacobi Regis. 72 A Poclamation for suppressing of persons riotously assembled for the laying open of enclosures. pag. 139. 73 A Proclamation signifying his majesties pleasure as well for suppressing of riotous assemblies about enclosures, as for reformation of Depopulations. pag. 140. 74 A Proclamation for repeal of a Statute made Anno 5. Rich. 2. and to restrain the Kings Subiects from departing out of the realm, and also concerning the transportation of gold and silver. pag. 144. 75 A Proclamation signifying his majesties gracious pardon for the Offenders about enclosures. pag. 146. 76 A Publication signifying his majesties pleasure touching a licence granted by his majesty to Sir Edward Hobby Knight, for buying and selling of wools. pag. 148. 77 A Proclamation concerning Starch. pag. 151. 78 A Proclamation for proroguing the Parliament. pag. 155. 79 A Proclamation for jurors. pag. 155. 80 A Proclamation touching new buildings& Inmates. pag. 159. 81 A Proclamation for restraint of the inhabitants of places infected, from coming to the Court. pag. 163. 82 A Proclamation touching the earls of Tyrone and Tyrconnell. pag. 164. 83 A Proclamation for the apprehending of the lord Maxwell. pag. 166. 84 A Proclamation for proroguing the Parliament. pag. 167. 85 Orders conceived by the Lords of his majesties privy counsel, and by his Highnesse special direction, commanded to bee put in execution for the restraint of killing, and eating of Flesh in the Lent, and to bee executed as well by the L. Maior within the city and Suburbs of London, and by the Officers of the Liberties and exempt places in and about the same, as by order to be prescribed by the Lords Lieutenants of all the Counties of the realm, to the Iustices of peace, Lords of liberties, and Officers of Corporate towns. pag. 168. ¶ Anno sexto jacobi Regis. 86 A Proclamation against the Transportation of Leather. pag. 171. 87 A Proclamation commanding the Oath of Allegiance to bee tendered to all the Kings majesties Subiects coming from beyond the Seas, except Merchants and men of quality. pag. 173. 88 A Proclamation for the preventing and remedying of the dearth of grain and other victuals. pag. 174. 89 A Proclamation against making of Starch. pag. 176. 90 A Proclamation for Buildings. pag. 180. 91 A Proclamation for restraint of the shipping and transporting of horses. pag. 182. 92 A Proclamation for proroguing the Parliament. pag. 183. 93 A Proclamation concerning Fines for Alienations of lands holden in chief, made without Record. pag. 183. 94 A Proclamation touching Maulsters, common Brewers, and Ale-house keepers. pag. 186. 95 A Proclamation for proroguing the Parliament. pag. 187. 96 A Proclamation against Pirates. pag. 188. 97 A Proclamation for preservation of Woods. pag. 191. 98 A Proclamation giuing a further day for Fines for Alienations of lands holden in chief made without Record. pag. 194. ¶ Anno septimo jacobi Regis. 99 A Proclamation signifying his majesties pleasure, to confirm by all means the estates of his Subiects against all defects in their Assurances, and all concealed Titles. pag. 196. 100 A Proclamation touching Fishing. pag. 200. 101 Articles to be performed by virtue of our Commission of Sale annexed, touching Forrests, parks, and chaces. pag. 202. 102 A Proclamation forbidding any person to carry packets or Letters to or from any city or town, by foot, or on horseback, except such as are allowed by authority. pag. 204. 103 Orders decreed vpon for the furtherance of our service, as well in writing, as riding in post, specially set down, and commanded to be observed, where our Posts are established within our county of Kent. pag. 206. 104 A Prohibition for alum. pag. 209. 105 A Proclamation against Hunters, Stealers and killers of dear, within any the Kings majesties Forrests, chaces or parks. pag. 211. 106 A Proclamation for the adjournment of part of Michaelmas term. pag. 214. 107 A Proclamation for proroguing the Parliament. pag. 216. 108 A Proclamation giuing a further time for the amendment of defective Titles. pag. 217. 109 A Proclamation inhibiting the Importation of Pepper from foreign parts, by any other persons then those of the East Indian Company. pag. 218. 110 A Proclamation forbidding the making of Starch. pag. 220. ANNO PRIMO jacobi REGIS. ¶ A Proclamation, declaring the undoubted Right of our sovereign Lord King james, to the crown of the realms of England, France and Ireland. FOrasmuch as it hath pleased Almighty God to call to his mercy out of this transitory life our sovereign Lady, the high and mighty Prince Elizabeth late queen of England, France, and Ireland, by whose death and dissolution, the imperial crown of these realms aforesaid are now absolutely, wholly, and solely come to the high and mighty Prince james the sixth King of Scotland, who is lineally and lawfully descended from the body of Margaret, daughter to the high and renowned Prince, Henry the seventh King of England, France, and Ireland, his great Grandfather, the said Lady Margaret being lawfully begotten of the body of Elizabeth, daughter to King Edward the fourth( by which happy coniunction both the houses of york and Lancaster were united, to the ioy unspeakable of this kingdom, formerly rent and torn by the long dissension of bloody and civil warres) the same Lady Margaret being also the eldest sister of Henry the eight of famous memory King of England as aforeasaid: Wee therefore the Lords spiritual and temporal of this realm, being here assembled, united, and assisted with those of her late majesties privy counsel, and with great numbers of other principal Gentlemen of quality in the kingdom, with she Lord Maior, Aldermen,& Citizens of London, and a multitude of other good Subiects and Commons of this realm, thirsting now after nothing so much as to make it known to all persons. who it is that by Law, by lineal succession, and undoubted Right is now become the onely sovereign Lord and King of these imperial Crownes( to the intent that by virtue of his power, wisdom and godly courage, all things may be provided for, and executed, which may prevent or resist either foreign attempts, or popular disorder, tending to the breach of the present Peace, or to the prejudice of his majesties future quiet) do now hereby with one full voice and consent of tongue and heart, publish and proclaim, That the high and mighty Prince, james the sixth King of Scotland, is now by the death of our late sovereign, queen of England of famous memory, become also our onely, lawful, lineal and rightful liege Lord, james the first, King of England, France and Ireland, defender of the Faith, to whom as to our onely just Prince, adorned( besides his undoubted Right) with all the rarest gifts of mind and body, to the infinite comfort of all his people and Subiects that shall live under him, we do aclowledge all faith and constant obedience, with all hearty and humble affections, both during our natural lives for ourselves, and in the behalf of our posterity. Hereby protesting and denouncing to all persons whatsoever, that in this just and lawful Act of ours, we are resolved by the favour of Gods holy assistance, and in the zeal of our own conscience( warranted by certain knowledge of his manifest and undoubted Right, as hath been said before) to maintain and uphold his majesties person and estate, as our onely undoubted sovereign Lord and King, with the sacrifice of our lives, lands, goods, friends, and adherents, against all power, force, or practise, that shall go about by word or dead, to interrupt, contradict, or impugn his just claims, his entry into this kingdom, or any part thereof, at his good pleasure, or disobey such royal directions as shall come from him. To all which we are resolved onely to yield ourselves, until the last drop of our bloods be spent for his service. Hereby willing and commanding, in the name of our sovereign Lord james the first, King of all the foresaid kingdoms. all the late Lieutenants, deputy Lieutenants, Sheriffes, Iustices,& all Maiors, bailiffs, Constables, Headboroughes, and all other Officers and Ministers whatsoever, that they be aiding& assisting from time to time in all things that are or shall be necessary for the preventing, resisting and suppressing of any disorderly assemblies, or other unlawful act or attempt, either in word or dead, against the public peace of the realm, or any way prejudicial to the right, honour, state or person, of our onely undoubted and dear Lord and sovereign that now is, james the first, King of all the said kingdoms, as they will avoid the peril of his majesties heavy indignation, and their own utter ruin and confusion. Beseeching God to bless his majesty and his royal posterity with long and happy yeeres to reign over vs. Robert Lee, Maior. jo. Cantuar. Tho Egerton. C. S. Tho. Buckhurst. Th. E. Oxford. Nottingham. Northumberland. Gilbert Shrewsbury. W. Derby. E. Worcester. G. Cumberland. R. Sussex. pembroke. H. lincoln. Clanricard. Ri. London. Rob. Hereford. jo. Norwich. Tho. Laware. Morley. H. Cobham. Gray Wilt. scroop. Lomley. Ed. cronwell. Rob. Rich. George Hunsdon. G. Chandoys. W. Compton. Norreys. L. Howard of Waldon. W. Knollys. Ed. Wotton. jo. Stanhop. Rob. cecil. joh. Fortescue. jo. Popham. March. 24. ANNO 1602. ¶ A Proclamation, signifying his majesties pleasure, That all men being in Office of government at the death of the late queen Elizabeth, should so continue till his majesties further direction. FOrasmuch as it cannot be doubted, but as the Kings most Excellent majesty hath taken great contentment in the most dutiful and devoted affection of his Subiects of this realm, testified by the universal and joyful consent in publishing his Right, and acknowledgement of his Highnesse for their sovereign; so on the other side, his majesties Subiects will find much ioy and comfort by receiving knowledge of his gracious and loving acceptance of their said most humble and most affectionate service and duty: It is therefore very meet, That( his majesty having of late, by his several Letters of the eight and twentieth, and of the last of March, unto such of us the nobility of this realm, and others that were of the late queens privy Counsel, as are here at his Highnesse palace of Whitehall assembled for the service of his majesty and the State, signified his gracious acceptance, and Princely thankfulness unto all his Subiects, of whatsoever degree or condition, for such and so extraordinary demonstration of their good will, and commanding the same to be further notified to all parts) we should publish and declare the same, by this Proclamation, in his name. And withall, that we should declare and make known his majesties pleasure delivered likewise in the said Letters, touching the necessary continuation( during his absence, or until it shall please his Highnesse to give other commandement and direction) of such orders and proceedings for the preservation of Peace, administration of Iustice, and government of the State, as were formerly established,& stood in force immediately before the late queens decease, which chiefly, and in effect is this: That whereas vpon the decease of the late queens majesty, the authority of the most part of the Officers and places of jurisdiction and government within this realm,& in the realm of Ireland, did cease and fail, the sovereign person failing from whom the same were derived, and thereupon through doubtfulness, and want of authority for execution, in such persons as were invested in the said Offices and places, the settled and ordinary course of the affairs of the State( if remedy were not provided) might receive disturbance and prejudice by discontinuance and interruption: His majesty in his Princely wisdom, and care of the State( reserving unto his own iudgement hereafter the reformation and redress of any abuses in misgouernment vpon better knowledge taken therof, in his due time) is pleased, and hath so expressly signified, That all persons, that at the time of the late queens majesties decease, were duly and lawfully possessed of any place or Office of authority, jurisdiction, or government, either civil or Martiall within this realm, or in the realm of Ireland, And namely, all Lieutenants, Sheriffes, deputy Lieutenants, Commissioners of Musters, Iustices of the Peace, and all others in place of government, either meaner or superior,( as aforesaid) shal be, and shall so hold themselves continued in the said place and Offices, as formerly they held and enjoyed the same, until his majesties pleasure bee further known. And that in the mean while( for the preservation of Peace, and necessary proceeding in matters of Iustice, and for safety of the State) all the said persons, of whatsoever degree or condition may not fail, every one severally according to his place, office, or charge, to proceed in the performance and execution of all dueties thereto belonging, as formerly appertained to them and every of them, while the late queens majesty was living. And albeit the earnest and longing desire in all his majesties Subiects, to enjoy the sight of his royal person and presence( which hath moved very many of good degree and quality, and some of them having place of charge in the country where they dwell, to hasten and take their journeys at this time unto his highnesse) be, for itself, commendable in them, and acceptable to his majesty, being an argument of their abundant ioy and gladness: nevertheless, because the overmuch, and too frequent resort and concourse of people in those parts where his majesty as yet remaineth, or which are far distant from the heart of this realm, is at this present inconvenient, and may prove more dangerous, both in respect that the country whither such extraordinary resort is made, shall be overcharged with multitude, and therof scarcity& dearth is like enough to proceed, and also because these more inward parts of the realm shal in the mean while be impaired in hospitality, and being destitute of such assistance as is needful, it may be doubted to what danger or disturbance, foreign or domestical, they may be exposed: His majesty therefore in his wisdom both graciously accepting the good will of his Subiects, and withall regarding what is convenient for his service, and for the security of the State at this time is pleased, and doth require, That such concourse and resort into those parts be forborn, and above all others, of those persons that haue any place of charge or office, either on the Seacoast or the In-land, or are of good degree and quality in their country: And that such orderly course be hereafter holden( in the discretion of all such persons as aforesaid) for repair and resort to his Highnesse presence at his coming into this realm, as may conveniently stand and agree with the care and service necessary belonging, and to be performed in all parts of the realm, to his Highnesse and the State, His majesty being no less graciously disposed, and willing( in all convenient sort) to give contentment and pleasure to his own eyes and mind, by the sight of his most loyal and loving Subiects, then they are infinitely desirous to enjoy the happiness of his majesties person and presence, who( we doubt not) long before this time is already safe in this his realm of England, though his majesty forbeareth to come presently to his City of London, until those things can bee set in readiness, which are fit and honourable for the reception of so great and mighty a King. given at his majesties palace of Whitehall, the fifth of April, in the first year of his majesties reign. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation declaring at what valves certain Moneys of Scotland shall be currant within England. FOrasmuch as both the realms of England and Scotland are amongst others by the providence of God Almighty, and lawful right of descent united and incorporated together under the imperial crown of the high and mighty Prince james by the grace of God King of England, Scotland, France and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, &c. And his most excellent majesty in his Princely wisdom knowing how necessary it is, for Commerce and Trade between his loving Subiects of both his said Kingdoms, That the true value at which certain pieces of his majesties coin of Scotland shall be currant within his kingdom of England, should certainly bee made known and published to all his loving Subiects of both nations: And finding vpon trial& certificate by his majesties officers of the mint within his tower of London( vpon commandement given unto them in that behalf) That the coin of Scotland called the sixe-pound piece, of gold, is of the fineness of twenty and two Carrects, and that six of those pieces do make an ownce: And also that the coin of Scotland called the mark piece of silver, is of the value of thirteen pence halfpenny sterling: Hath therefore published and declared, and by these presents doth publish and declare, That the said coin of gold called the sixe-pound piece, shalbe from henceforth currant within his majesties kingdom of England, at the value of ten shillings sterling, And that the said coin of silver called the mark piece, shall bee from henceforth currant within the said kingdom of England at the value of thirteen pence halfpenny. And his majesty doth hereby specially charge and command, that the rates and valves before expressed, be from henceforth accepted and allowed of by all his loving Subiects whatsoever within the said realm of England. given at his majesties palace of Whitehall, the 8. of april in the first year of his majesties reign. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation for the dispatch of packets between London and Berwicke, for the service of the King. To all Maiors, sheriffs, Iustices of the Peace, Post-masters, bailiffs, Constables, Hedboroughs, and all other the Kings majesties Officers and Subiects whatsoever, to whom it shall or may appertain, and to every of them. FOrasmuch as there is present occasion of speedy dispatch of packets by post, for the special and important service of our sovereign Lord the Kings majesty to and fro between London and Berwicke, and for that purpose it is fit and convenient in this time so full of business, that the Poste-masters of every Stage be aided and assisted with fresh and able Horses as necessity shall require, by the Magistrates of towns and villages near adjoining, for the quick dispatch of the said packets, until his majesties business bee better settled vpon his arrival into these southern parts: And whereas also the Kings most excellent majesty doth shortly intend to begin his journey from Berwicke toward his city of London: We hold it very necessary to give present order that such provision be made of Poste-horses and carriages for his majesty and his train in all places where he shall pass. We haue therefore made choice of Thomas mills Esquire, Pay-master of all the posts, and Rowland White Gent. Post-master of his majesties Court, to see the services abovesaid well performed, Willing and requiring, and in his majesties name charging and commanding all Sheriffes, deputy Lieutenants, Iustices of Peace, Mayors, bailiffs, and all other his majesties Officers and loving Subiects, to take such special order& care in aiding and assisting al Constables and Post-masters, and other under Officers where the occasion of service shall require it, that such number of Horses may be provided from time to time, and from place to place during his majesties journey, as well for the Pacquers as otherwise, as Master Thomas mills and Rowland White shall give direction for. And that those numbers of horses you sand in, be able and sufficient horses, and well furnished of saddles, bridles, girts and stirropes, with good guides to look to them, who, for their said horses shall demand and receive of such as shall ride on them the prices accustomend. And further you are to see the said Gentlemen and their seruants, that now are employed and travell about this service, furnished, in doing thereof from place to place, of good and able Poste-masters, at reasonable prices. Whereof fail ye not as ye tender his majesties pleasure, and will answer to the contrary at your uttermost peril. From the Kings majesties palace of Whitehall the eight of april. Anno Dom. 1603. jo. Cant. Notingham. pembroke. jo. Norwycen. Tho. Lawarre. Hen. Windsor. Ed. Wotton. Tho. Egerton. C.S. Will. Derby. Ga. Kildare. Anth. Cirencester. Ro. Rich. T. Darcy. jo. Popham. T. Buckhurst. E. Worcester. Ri. London. jo. Roffens. Fr. Norrys. Ro. Cecil. E. Oxenford. Ro. Sussex. Ro. Hereford. R. Morley. Will. Sandys. William Knollys. ¶ A Proclamation for the Kings attendance, and receiving, by the Sheriffes of the several Counties. FOrasmuch as the Kings most excellent majesty is graciously minded to make his speedy repair from Barwick to his Highnes city of London, In which his journey he is to pass from thence through diuers Shires of this realm: These are to notify unto all Sheriffes of the several Counties through which his majesty shall so pass, that his Highnes will and pleasure is, that each of them respectively being attended with the Iustices of Peace, and other Gentlemen of the said several Counties, fail not to wait on his majesty, to receive him at his first entrance into the same county whereof they are Sheriffes, and so to continue their attendance until such time as his majesty come to the uttermost bounds of the same county, Where the sheriff of the next county is in like manner to attend and receive him: And this to be so done from County to county, until his majesty shall come to the said city of London. And furthermore, for that it is requisite that sufficient and plentiful provisions bee made in all such Counties and places where his Highnesse shall either lodge or rest by the way, not onely for his majesty and such noble Personages as shall attend him, but also for the whole train: These are in his Highnesse name to charge and command all Sheriffes, Iustices of Peace, and others his majesties Officers, Ministers and Subiects to whom it may appertain, That they and every of them take special care and regard, that all maner Victuals and other provisions necessary and convenient for his majesty and his whole train, bee in convenient time brought to all places where his Highnes shall lodge or rest in his passage as aforesaid, there to be uttered and sold for reasonable priees: For all which, the owners thereof shall from time to time receive good and present payment. And as it is not doubted, but that all his majesties good& faithful Subiects will be most ready and willing to show themselves forward and careful in the due accomplishment of the premises, according to their loyalty and duty: so if any shalbe found disobedient, negligent, or remiss therein, These are to let them know, that they are to sustain such condign punishment as their offence in that behalf deserveth. given at his majesties palace of Whitehall, the tenth of April, in the first year of his majesties reign. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation for the discovery and apprehension of William Ruthen, and patrick Ruthen, brethren to the late earl of Gowrie. WHereas the Kings majesty is informed, that William Ruthen, and patrick Ruthen,( two brethren to the late earl of Gowrie, a dangerous traitor to his person) haue crept into this kingdom with malicious hearts against him, disguising themselves in secret places, where he is informed, that they do not onely utter cankered speeches against him, but are practising and contriving dangerous plots, and desperate attempts against his Royal person; for effecting whereof, either by themselves, or by such as they can persuade& suborn thereunto, they leave no means vnessayed: Bee it therefore known to all men by these presents, That for the speedy apprehension of these malicious and dangerous persons, William Ruthen and Patrick Ruthen aforesaid, The Kings most excellent majesty doth straitly command and charge all and singular Sheriffes, Iustices of the Peace, Maiors, bailiffs, Constables, and all& every other his highnesse Officers within this his realm of England, That they, and every of them make diligent search and enquiry for the said malicious persons William Ruthen and patrick Ruthen, and to use all their best endeavours, as well within all maner of Liberties, as without, for the discovery, apprehension, and arresting the bodies of them the said William Ruthen and patrick Ruthen, and being apprehended or arrested, forthwith, speedily, and without any delay, to bring them, or cause them to be brought under some safe custody, before some of his Highnesse most honourable privy counsel, there to be proceeded with and ordered, according as Iustice shal require: And herein not to fail, as they and every of them tender their duty to his Highnesse, and will answer the contrary at their uttermost perils. And the Kings most excellent majesty doth moreover straitly charge and command all and every Searcher, Customer and Officer of any Port within this realm, and all other his Highnesse Subiects, of what Nature, quality, and condition soever he or they be, to whose Houses the said William Ruthen, and patrick Ruthen, or either of them shall resort, or to whose knowledge, notice or understanding it may come, where or in what places they the said William Ruthen, and patrick Ruthen shall bee, or into whose hands they shall come, to stay, apprehended, and arrest them, and to bring them before some of his majesties privy counsel as aforesaid, Wherein if any shall go about to conceal them, or shall not reveal their abode( if it be in their power to do so) His majesty doth hereby pronounce, that he will for ever after, hold them as partakers and abettors of their malicious practices and intentions, for which they shall feel the weight of his heaviest indignation. And if at any time, any Subiects of his( out of their duty) shall discover the persons aforesaid, or their residence, and yet shall not find themselves able to pursue them, his majesty doth command them, to call for the aid and assistance of his Highnesse Officers, or any other his Subiects, whom his majesty doth also straitly charge and command hereby, to be aiding and assisting herein, as they will answer to the contrary at their uttermost perils. given at Burghley the 27. day of April, 1603. In the first year of our reign. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A form of Proclamation to be proclaimed by the clerk of the Market, and he to see it executed touching prices of Victuals. THe Kings majesty straitly chargeth and commandeth, That every man do obey and keep all such prices as is and shalbe prized and ranted by the clerk of the Market of his most honourable household, and the jury before him or his deputy by the authority of his Office sworn and charged from time to time, and so fixed and set vpon the gates of the Kings Highnes Court and other places within the Verge: And that no person or persons of what estate or degree soever he be, do in any wise pay more for corn, victuals, horse-meat, lodgings, or any kind of victuals, then after the Rate and form aforesaid, vpon pain of imprisonment, and further peril that shall thereof follow, The same punishments to be inflicted as well vpon them and every of them, which do or shall presume to pay any more, for any the things before mentioned, as vpon them and every of them, which shal utter and sell any maner of things contrary to the true meaning of this Proclamation. And moreover the Kings Highnesse straitly chargeth and commandeth all Maiors, Iustices of peace, bailiffs, Constables, and all other his faithful Officers, and every of them, as well within liberties as without( within the Verge of his Highnesse Court) from time to time, when and as often as need shal require, diligently within their authority, to endeavour themselves to see execution and due reformation of the premises, according to Iustice and prices as aforesaid. And further it is ordered, that no person or persons, now using, or which of right ought to use to serve any city, town, or other place within the Verge of his Highnesse Court, with any kind of corn, victuals, horse-meat, Lodgings or any other necessaries, as well vpon the Market day, as at any other time, bee any thing the more remiss or slack in making provision for the same, then they or any of them heretofore haue been, nor hid, lay aside, or use any colour of craft to deceive the buyers thereof, whereby the Kings Highnesse train within any city, town, or other place, and the inhabitants of the same should not be as well served, and plenteously furnished in every behalf, as it was before, or of right ought to haue been, in defraud of this his Highnesse ordinance, nor take or receive any more then according to the prices which from time to time shall stand and be declared in maner aforesaid, under his Graces seal of the office of the clerk of the market, vpon pain of imprisonment, and further to make Fine unto the Kings Highnes use, for his or their contempts therein. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation inhibiting the use and execution of any Charter or Grant made by the late queen Elizabeth, of any kind of Monopolies. &c. THe zeal and great affection, which we haue found in all sorts of people of this our Kingdom towards our Person, and that Right which wee had to the succession of this crown, hath so many ways been expressed, as we cannot choose but make it manifest to them all by some public declaration, how great a desire it hath wrought in our heart to show our gracious acceptation of their devotion towards us, whensoever there shall be offered either occasion or subject, that may concern their universal good. For though it be true, that our Right was so assured, that whatsoever testimony could thereof be uttered, was but the duty of Subiects, acknowledging that faith and loyalty whereunto by the laws of God and Nature they were bound: yet do we confess, that there is in the true rules of Iustice from the sovereign to the subject, a reciprocal office and respect, which they are bound in honour and conscience to observe. The consideration whereof, hath moved us to think of such ways, as for the present did occur unto us, wherein we might make manifest to our people, how willing we are now, and will be ready hereafter, to bee as forward in requiting their love, as they haue been in expressing it. In which consideration while we were busied, we were informed that the queen our sister deceased, finding some few yeeres before her death, that some things had passed her hand at the importunity of her seruants, whom she was willing to reward with little burden to her estate( otherwise by necessary occasions exhausted,) which though they had and might haue foundation in Princely prerogative, yet either by too large extending thereof, or for the most part in respect that they were of such nature, as could hardly be put in use without hindrance to multitudes of people, or else committed to inferior persons, who in the execution thereof did so exceedingly abuse the same, as they became intolerable: Had purposed to revoke all Grants of that nature, and did begin with some, which were held most unjust, putting the rest to the examination of her laws to stand or fall, as in the construction of Law they might consist, or not. We, who though we had never had such an example, were ever opposite in our own nature to any thing that had colour of oppression, hold it our part not onely carefully to perfect all her good intentions, but to study further by all good means, and with all expedition to put in practise all other courses whereby a people so loving, so dutiful, and so dear unto us, may know and feel that we are as desirous to make them happy by our Iustice and grace towards them in all reasonable things, as they haue been ready to increase our comfort and contentment in yielding their loyalty and obedience towards our establishment in those Rights, which under God we do enjoy. Therefore we do expressly charge and command all persons whatsoever, That from henceforth they utterly desist and forbear to use or execute any maner of Charter or Grant made by our late Sister the queen deceased, of any kind of Monopolies, or of any power or Licence to dispense with, or discharge any maner of penal laws( except such Grants onely, as haue been made to any Corporation or Company of any Art or mystery, or for the maintenance or enlargement of any trade of merchandise) until such time as the same Charter or Grant shalbe examined and allowed of by us, with the aduise of our counsel, to be fit to be put in execution, without any prejudice to our loving Subiects. And where heretofore many haue been greatly prejudiced and delayed in suing for their debts& other dueties by sundry kind of Protections, and by pretence of other privileges and exemptions: We charge and command, and our express will and pleasure is, That no Protection, privilege or exemption to delay any persons Suiterr Action, shall from henceforth bee received or allowed in any our Courts or else where, which are or shal be contrary or repugnant to the laws of this realm. And furthermore, we will and command, that no assignments of Debts or Actions be made unto us by any that is, or pretendeth to bee indebted unto us, who is otherwise able and sufficient by himself, or by his Sureties, readily to pay the same Debt, nor any assignment taken to our use of any Debt, other then such, as shall then appear to be a just and true Debt. And for that we are certainly informed of many great disorders and abuses, to the great grief of our loving Subiects as well by Salt-petermen and such as haue or pretend to haue Commission and Authority to make saltpeter, as also by sundry purveyors and Takers of Carts and other provisions for our use and service: Therefore we do expressly charge and command, that the said Salt-petermen, purveyors and Takers, haue especial care to execute their Offices and Authorities without any maner of oppression, grievance or wrong to be done to any our loving Subiects. And if they that haue the Commissions, shal abuse the execution of them contrary to this our declaration, We are pleased that such, as shal be grieved therewith, shall resort to us or our council with their complaints. And we do also give express charge and commandement to al Lawyers, attorneys, Officers and clerk, of and in any our Courts of Iustice whatsoever, ecclesiastical or temporal, that they nor any of them extort or take any undue or excessive Fees, but such onely as are allowed to be had or taken in the same Courts. And to the end that our pleasure and commandement may be duly and effectually performed, and observed in the premises: We do hereby notify and declare, that whosoever shall presume to break or violate in any thing aforesaid our royal commandements, they shall thereby incur our indignation and displeasure, And that vpon complaint and proof thereof made, wee will not fail to proceed to such severe punishment against such offenders according to their demerits, as shal be fit for so high and contemptuous an offence. These graces above specified, as we do presently extend to our people, and do intend others hereafter when wee shall understand more particularly wherein we may yield them comfort: So because things well meant may in the maner of the execution of them be abused; and Complaints grounded vpon just causes, may in the craving of remedy be accompanied with offensive proceedings, Wee haue thought good to admonish our Subiects, that we do expect at their hands, that if in the things above specified, or in any other wherewith they shall find themselves grieved( which haue not yet come to our knowledge) they shall haue cause to seek any thing at our hands, they shall forbear all assembling and flocking together in multitudes, but shall in lawful and decent maner without numbers, without clamour, or any other kind of disorder, resort to us or our council by way of humble Petition; from whom they shall receive such answer, as shall make manifest the zeal we haue to the observation of Iustice, and maintenance of their welfare, if their Complaints be just. And on the other side, if we shall perceive that their petitions shal savour of humour, and tend onely to slander and calumniation, and indeed haue no other foundation, but such as often happeneth in vulgar people, under pretence of seeking public redresses to utter private malice: We would haue them understand hereby, that they shall not onely displease us therein, but find that we hold it no less the Office of a Prince to protect their Magistrates and Officers, and all public persons in their just causes, then to give redress to the vulgar sort, when they haue in dead cause to complain, against all persons how great soever they be in rule or dignity under us: reserving to ourself the Right justly appertaining to our prerogative, for that we would not haue it conceived, that in doing these things out of our Grace, we do intend to renounce those ancient dueties and privileges, which haue descended vpon us with the succession of our kingdoms. And for that we are informed, that there hath been heretofore great neglect in this kingdom of keeping the Sabbath day: For better observing of the same, and avoiding of all impious profanation of it, we do straitly charge and command, that no Beare-bayting, Bul-bayting, interludes, Common plays, or other like disordered or unlawful Exercises or Pastimes be frequented, kept or used, at any time hereafter vpon any Sabbath day. given at our Court at Theobalds the 7. of May, in the first year of our reign. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation against unlawful Hunting. FOrasmuch as his majesty understandeth, that there be diuers ancient and other good and necessary laws and statutes of this his kingdom of England, which do inflict and impose diuers grievous corporal and pecuniary pains and punishments, extending in some cases to sentence of death( the last and greatest punishment,) and in some cases to final exile and banishment out of their natural country for ever, vpon such as unlawfully hunt or enter into any forest, park, Chase, or Warren, to kill or destroy any Deere or Game with any Dogs, Nets, guns, crossbows, Stonebowes or other Instruments, Engines, or means whatsoever, or by any such unlawful means or devises to spoil or destroy the game of Pheasants, Partridges, Hearne, Mallard,& such like, And also diuers other good laws and Statutes, provided for the preventing of the said offences, and therefore do prohibit vpon great pains and penalties as well the having or keeping, as the using of any Deere hays, Buckstals, Dogs, guns, crossbows, nets and other Engines, as by the same laws and Statutes appeareth: And yet his majesty understandeth withall, that the same good laws and Statutes haue had( especially of late time) little or no effect, in respect there hath not been any due execution( the life of all laws) of the same, by such to whom the care and charge thereof appertained: by means whereof, such boldness and disobedidience hath grown, specially in the vulgar sort, as that of late yeeres, the several Games above mentioned, haue been more excessively and outrageously spoyled and destroyed, then hath been attempted and practised in former ages. His majesty intending a due and speedy reformation of the said abuses& offences, And that the said good laws and Statutes be hereafter put in due execution, And yet of his Princely clemency and benignity, now in the beginning of his most happy& prosperous reign towards all his loving Subiects, is graciously pleased, and doth by these presents vouchsafe to publish to all his Subiects his intention and determination therein, to the end that none of them,( which his majesty desireth) might hereafter incur the severity and punishment of the said laws and Statutes: but like good and natural Subiects for their own safety and good, obey and observe the same. And therefore doth straitly charge and command all and every person and persons, of what estate and degree soever, not to hunt, kill, take or destroy, by any of the ways or means abovesaid, or by any other unlawful mean, device, or invention whatsoever, any of the Games abovesaid, contrary to any of the aforesaid laws or Statutes: Nor that they haue, keep, or use any of the said Deere haies, Buckstalles, dogges, guns, crossbows, nets, and other things above mentioned, or any of them, contrary to any of the said laws or Statutes. And that if any person or persons, shall, after this Proclamation made and published, offend in any of the premises, against any of the said laws and Statutes, that then he shall not onely undergo and suffer the severe sentence and punishment of the same, as well for such offences hereafter to be attempted or done, as for the like offences formerly committed, but also such pains and penalties, as may be inflicted vpon such as wilfully contemn and disobey his Commandement royal. And his majesty doth further charge and command all Iustices, Officers and Ministers whatsoever, to whom in these cases it doth appertain, that they from henceforth diligently and carefully look to the due executing, as well of the said laws and Statutes and every of them, as of his majesties pleasure and royal commandment, signified and declared by these presents, And that without respect of any person or persons of what estate or degree soever, as they will answer the contrary at their uttermost peril. given at our Mannour of Greenwich the 16. day of May, in the first year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and in the six and thirtieth of Scotland. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation charging all Actors or Partners in the incursion on the Borders, to resort to the Commissioners, at a day limited. THe foul and insolent outrages lately committed vpon the borders of our realms of England and Scotland by persons accustomend in former times to live by rapine& spoil, praying daily vpon our good and loving Subiects without fear of God or man, hath given us just cause to use all means convenient both for the relief of our Subiects damnified, and for prevention of the like mischief hereafter. Wherefore as of late wee gave commission to proceed against those persons, that were guilty of those foul facts: So now again, because as yet such redress hath not followed as both our honour& our good Subiects loss do require, We haue thought good to renew that our Commission to certain persons of quality and of good understanding in the affairs of those our Borders, And withall, to publish by open proclamation to all men, but specially to such, as are guilty, or were partakers of the foul incursions made vpon our first coming to our crown of this our realm of England, or any others before or since, That whereas some of them haue of late submitted themselves, and some others seemed to be willing to submit themselves to our mercy, Because they and all others shall know, that as we are a Prince that before all worldly respects whatsoever affecteth the preservation of Iustice among our people, and the punishment of such, as break the Rules thereof, So that we are not indisposed to show mercy where there is cause to extend it, and where the same is sought at our hands in such dutiful maner, as is meet: We do therefore charge all persons whatsoever, who know themselves to haue been Actors, Partners, or of consent to that incursion above mentioned, or to any other breach of our peace within the Counties and Limits heretofore called our Borders both of the English side and of the Scottish, that they do before the twentieth day of june next coming, resort to such place, where they shall understand our Commissioners to be, and there submit themselves to such mercy and favor, as we shall think good to extend towards them: Assuring them in the word of our royal and supreme power, that whosoever of them shall not before the said twentieth day of june haue submitted himself according to the tenor of this our Proclamation, shall hold himself for ever excluded from our mercy without hope at any time to obtain grace or favour, but to abide the rigour of such punishment, as our power can lay vpon him. given at our manor of Greenwich the 17. day of May, 1603. in the first year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and of Scotland the six and thirtieth. ¶ A Proclamation for the uniting of England and Scotland. FOrasmuch as the Kings majesty, in his Princely disposition to Iustice, having ever a special care and regard to haue repressed the slaughters, spoils, robberies, and other enormities which were so frequent and common vpon the Borders of these realms, and to haue reduced and settled the said Borders unto a perfect obedience, to the comfort of his Highnes peaceable Subiects: The course whereof hath been heretofore impeded by the difference of the Borders, English and Scottish, till it hath now pleased Almighty God, in his great blessing to this whole iceland, by his majesties lawful succession to the imperial crown of England, not onely to remove this difference, but also to furnish his Highnesse with power and force sufficient to prosecute that his majesties royal and worthy resolution, as his Highnesse hath already begun, intending that the bounds possessed by those rebellious people, being in fertility and all other benefits nothing inferior to many of the best parts of the whole Ile, shalbe no more the extremities, but the middle, and the Inhabitants thereof reduced to perfect obedience: Yet notwithstanding, as his majesty is informed, certain disordered and wicked persons of both Marches, enemies to Peace, Iustice, and quietness, pretending ignorance of his majesties resolution for the union of the two realms, already settled in the hearts of all his good Subiects, and feeding themselves with a sinister conceit and opinion, that no such union should be established and take effect, still continue in all kind of robbery and oppression, whereunto they are encouraged by the receipt and harbour granted unto them, their wives, children, goods and geir in the Inland and peaceable parts of both the realms, highly to his majesties contempt, and frustrating of his Highnesse Commission granted to the effect aforesaid. And therefore his majesty for the better satisfaction of all his good Subiects, who may stand in any doubt of the said union, and to take away all pretence of excuse from wicked and turbulent persons, hath hereby thought good to publish and make known to all those to whose knowledge these Presents shall come, That as his majesty hath found in the hearts of all the best disposed Subiects of both the realms of al qualities, a most earnest desire, that the said happy union should be perfected, the memory of all preterite discontentments abolished, and the inhabitants of both the realms to be the Subiects of one kingdom: so his Highnesse will with all convenient diligence with the advice of the Estates and Parliament of both the kingdoms make the same to be perfited. And in the mean time till the said union be established with the due solemnity aforesaid, his majesty doth hereby repute, hold, and esteem, and commands all his Highnesse Subiects to repute, hold, and esteem both the two realms as presently united, and as one realm and kingdom, and the Subiects of both the realms as one people, brethren and members of one body: And in regard thereof, that every one of them abstain and forbear to commit any kind of robbery, bloodshed, or any other insolence or disorder, or to receive and harbour the persons, wives, children or goods of the fugitives and outlaws of either of the realms, but to contain themselves in peace and quietness, and all such dutiful behaviour as becometh good and loyal Subiects, certifying all and every person who shall do, practise, or attempt any thing to the violating of these Presents, that they shall incur the punishment due to the said Rebels, and that the same shalbe executed against them with all rigor and extremity to the terror of others. given under our Signet at our Mannour of greenwich, the nineteenth of May. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation commanding Gentlemen to depart the Court and city. AT our first entrance into this our realm, and in all the way as we haue passed, we took no small contentment in the resort of Noblemen, Gentlemen and other our Subiects coming to visit us, holding their affectionate desire to see our Person, to be a certain testimony of their inward love. And in the same contentment we haue dwelled since our sojourning at this place, and shall ever remain, as long as such concourse of them to our Court may bee without grievance and offence to the Body of this realm. But hearing from all parts of our kingdom, that by the remove of great numbers of the principal Gentlemen out of the several Counties, as well of such as haue charge there, as deputy Lieutenants, or Commissioners for the Musters or for the peace, as others with their whole families, both th'excution of things incident to their charge is omitted, and hospitality exceedingly decayed, whereby the relief of the poorer sort of people is taken away, who had from such houses much comfort and ease towards their living: For remedy of the inconveniences like to grow thereby, and also for that we find the sickness already somewhat forward within our city of London, which by concourse of people abiding there is very like to be increased, and importeth us as well for our peoples sake, as for the safety of our own Person( who for the most part live in places near the said city) to prevent by all provident means: We haue been moved rather to want for a time the contentment we haue in the sight and resort of our Subiects to us, then for our own private delight, to give way to so great a mischief, as the continual resort hither may breed. Wherefore wee do hereby will and command all Gentlemen and others, as well such as haue any kind of charge in the Counties of their ordinary habitation, as of other sort, That if they haue not some special cause of attendance at our Court for our service, or for some necessary cause concerning their own estate, whereof they may inform our privy council, they shall immediately after the end of this term depart our said city of London and the Suburbs thereof, and return to their several habitations in the Counties of their abode, until the time of our Coronation bee come, at what time we shall not mislike to haue them return until that solemnity be passed. And because we perceive that heretofore there hath been a great neglect in obeying Proclamations published vpon just causes, we do admonish all those whom this Proclamation concerneth, to be so wary, as we haue not just cause to make them an example of contempt, which we must and will do, if after the term ended we shall find any making stay here, contrary to this direction. given at our manor of Greenwich the 29. of May, in the first year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and the 36. of Scotland. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation that no man abuse the earl of Tyrone. ALthough the offences committed against the queen our Sister deceased, and the honour of her Estate by the earl of Tyrone, were such as all Princes ought to be very sensible of, and not by the impunity of offenders in so high a nature, give way to others to attempt the like: Yet because wee haue understood that before the death of the queen, the said earl having expressed and made known to Her, many tokens of an unfeigned repentance, had so far moved her therewith, as shee had given power to the L. Mountioy her Deputy, and now our Lieutenant of that Kingdom, to receive him to mercy if he should seek it, which her purpose, we cannot but commend, as being derived from the virtue of clemency, of no less ornament to Princely dignity then is the rigor of Iustice: And for that the said earl hath not onely done none offence against us since our coming to this crown, but also, we are certainly informed by our Lieutenant, hath both abandoned his adherence to all foreign Princes, and offered himself in his own person to do service vpon any other Rebels within that realm of Ireland; Wee could not think him worthy of less favour at our hands, then he had obtained at hers, against whom his faults were committed. And therefore he being now admitted by our said Lieutenant, by virtue of the power first given by the queen, and since confirmed by us, into his state and condition of a good subject, and in the rank and dignity of an earl, And being also come over into this realm to cast himself at our feet,& to testify by his own words, his unfeigned sorrow of his former offences, and earnest desire of our mercy and favour: Wee haue thought good to signify to all men by these presents, that wee haue received him into grace and favour, and do aclowledge him our subject, and a Nobleman of such rank and place as in that our realm of Ireland he is: And that therefore if any man shall by words, or dead, abuse the said earl of Tyrone, or misbehaue himself towards him, and not yield him such respect and usage, as belongeth to a person of his sort received into our favour and good opinion, we shall esteem it an Offence, deserving such punishment, as the contempt of our pleasure so expressly signified doth deserve. given at our Mannour of Greenwich the 8. day of june, in the first year of our reign. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation concerning the Patents for tin. WHere in a Proclamation( lately by us published) for considerations therein expressed, Wee prescribed a course whereby the complaints of our people might be taken away, if the same should appear to be justly grounded; having now since that time received particular information, that a Grant to certain Patentees for the sole preemption of tin, was very inconvenient and full of grievance to our loving Subiects: Wee, after long debate thereof before ourself and our privy council, where objections of either side were made, and where the inconveniences were laid open, Haue resolved not onely to consider how the generality of our Subiects might be relieved in suspension of this Grant, but how the same might be done without any injustice to any particular person, who is interested therein by virtue of Letters Patents under the great seal of England, whereof we never intend to seek any course of revocation, but by an ordinary course of Iustice, in which all our people are equally interested. In which respect, having commanded the Lords and others of our privy council to call before them the Patentees,& then to offer them all such trial for the maintenance of that Patent, as the Iustice of this our realm affordeth, The said Patentees haue rather yielded in their own duty and discretions, to surrender the Patent, then to go about to maintain it: Whereof we thought it fit that all our good Subiects should take notice, as an Argument of our continual care and desire to do all things, which tend to the relief of our people in any thing, whereby they receive any maner of oppression, as long as they shall dutifully and orderly appeal unto us for the same. given at our Mannour of Greenwich the 16. day of june, in the first year of our reign of England, France, and Ireland, and in the 36. of Scotland. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation concerning Warlike ships at Sea. ALthough we haue made it known by public Edict, that at our entrance into these our kingdoms of England and Ireland, we stood, as still we do, in good amity& friendship with all the Princes of christendom, and therefore are carefully to provide, as much as in us lieth, that none of them or their subiects should by any hostile action bee endamaged in their Persons, Territories, or goods by any of our subiects either by land or Sea: Yet we are not ignorant, that our late dear Sister the late queen of England, had of long time warres with the King of spain, and during that time gave Licences and Commissions to diuers of her,& our now subiects, to set out and furnish to Sea, at their charges, diuers ships warlikely appointed, for the surprising and taking of the said Kings subiects and goods, and for the enjoying of the same, being taken and brought home as lawful prise. By virtue of which licenses and commissions, our said Subiects in the zeal and affection which they bare to the good of their country, in the annoyance and spoil of the public enemy of this State at that time, and in maintenance and employment of the Shipping and Mariners of England, otherwise through scant of traffic at that time, not sufficiently set on work; Did furnish out to the Seas diuers ships warlikely appoynted, to their exceeding charge, vpon confidence to enjoy what goods soever they should take during the said Voyage, belonging to the King of spain, or to any of his Subiects, according to the tenor of their several Commissions. And whereas diuers of them, sithence our coming by the grace and favour of God to the imperial crown of these our realms and Dominions, haue taken by colour of the said commissions, diuers Ships and goods belonging to the subiects of the King of spain, not knowing of any alteration or discontinuance of the former war between spain and England, and thereby are like to be extremely hindered, or rather many of them undone( being a great number of our good& serviceable subiects) if they may not be suffered to enjoy such goods as they haue so taken, before any notice given unto them of the discontinuance of the said late war: We in our Princely condition, having( above all things) tender care of the good estate of our loving and dutiful Subiects, and willing to give encouragement to all others hereafter, in time of our warres, to show like forwardness in venturing their lives and goods for the weakening of the public enemy, and benefiting of this their country: Haue thought good to signify to all men by these presents, that our will and pleasure is, that all such as haue set out, or furnished to the Seas, any ships of war, by virtue of any the said Commissions, and not having notice of our entrance into this kingdom, haue at any time before the four and twentieth day of april last( which time we limit unto all men of war at Sea as a sufficient space, within which they may haue taken knowledge of the discontinuance of the said war) thereby taken any ships, or goods belonging to any the subiects of the King of spain, and are already returned into any of our Dominions, shall quietly enjoy the said ships and goods taken as aforesaid. And further our will and pleasure is that whatsoever ships or goods belonging to any subject of the said King of spain, hath been or shall be taken at Sea, or land by any of our subiects by colour of any commission whatsoever, after the said 24. day of april last: the same shall be forthwith sequestered from the Takers, to the use of the true Proprietaries, and restored unto them vpon the first claims and proofs of their property, without any long or chargeable svit of Law. And wee further will and command, that all such our men of war, as be now at Sea, having no sufficient Commission as aforesaid, and haue taken, or shall go to Sea hereafter, and shall take any the ships, or goods of any subject of any Prince in league or amity with us, shall be reputed and taken as Pirates, and both they and all their accessaries, maintainers, comforters, abettors, and partakers shall suffer death as Pirates, and accessaries to piracy, with confiscation of all their lands, and goods, according to the ancient laws of this realm. Commanding all our Officers of the admiralty to see our commandement severely executed, and commanding all other Officers of our kingdoms and Dominions whom it may concern, to give their best assistance to the officers of the admiralty, for the better execution of our said commandement, as they and every of them failing therein, will answer to the contrary at their uttermost perils. given at our Mannour of Greenwich the 23. day of june, in the first year of our reign of England, France, and Ireland, and in the six and thirtieth of Scotland. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation for the adjournment of part of trinity term. FOrasmuch as the infection of the Plague is at this present greatly increased and dispersed as well in the Cities of London and Westminster, as also in the Suburbs thereof, The Kings most excellent majesty considering that great peril and danger might ensue, not onely unto his royal person, the queens majesty, the Prince, and princess, the honourable ambassadors from sundry foreign Princes, the Lords& others of his majesties honourable privy council, the Nobles of this realm, and other his majesties loving Subiects, if the people of all sorts, and out of all parts of this realm, should resort or continue together for their Suits& causes this instant term, commonly called trinity term, and hoping that by dispersing of the multitude of people now being in or about his said Cities, and by staying the access of others to the same about Suits in Law, and by due observation of such good and necessary Orders and directions, as are and shalbe prescribed in that behalf, through the merciful goodness of Almighty God, the said infection shall bee stayed, so as the Coronation and Inauguration of his most Excellent majesty, to the inestimable and universal rejoicing of all his loving and true hearted Subiects, with all Princely solemnities and honors thereunto appertaining, may be accomplished and performed, at such time and place as his majesty hath already been pleased to appoint, Hath therefore thought good by the advice of his privy council, and Iustices of his Courts at Westminster, to adjourn part of the same term, That is to say, in and from the second return of this instant term, commonly called Octabis Trinitatis, until the fourth return of the same term, commonly called trees Trinitatis, and that to bee for such causes onely, and for such intent and purpose, as hereafter is declared. And therefore his majesty doth hereby signify and declare, that his will and pleasure is, That Writs of adjournment shalbe directed to the Iustices of either Bench, and to the Iudges of all other his majesties Courts, to whom like writs haue been usually directed, giuing them authority to adjourn this instant term, in and from Octabis Trinitatis next, until trees Trinitatis then next following, And the said adjournment to be made the first day of the said Octabis Trinitatis, called the day of Essoines. And whereas his majesty considering in his princely wisdom what great prejudice might grow to many his good and loving Subiects in their causes and Suits, if this term should be wholly adjourned, Hath therefore by the advice of his said counsel and Iustices, determined to haue some part thereof to be holden and continued for some few dayes in the beginning and ending of the same, as is aforesaid, His highnesse most gracious intention in that behalf is, That the same dayes for which some part of this said term is to be holden, shalbe used onely for the better expediting and continuing of Causes and Suits, and returning and suing out of process, and for such other like things, which may be performed and done in the absence of the parties by their Attourneyes. And therefore his majesty doth by this his Proclamation signify to all his loving Subiects, that his will and pleasure is, That in and from the said Octabis Trinitatis next, there shall not be any Trials by Iuries, or any judgements vpon Demurrers, or special Verdicts or such like, in any of his highnesse Courts of Kings Bench, Common Pleas, or Exchequer. And also that there shall not be any judicial hearing or determining of any Causes or matters in any of his majesties Courts of star Chamber, Chancery, Exchequer Chamber, Court of Wards, Duchy Chamber, or Court of Requests, in or from the said Octabis Trinitatis next, during the said term: And that no party shall need to be present in person for any such causes or suits, but the same may bee attended and done by their attorneys. And his majesty doth hereby further notify and declare, That no party shall be compelled or need to appear in person in any of his majesties said Courts, in or from the said Octabis Trinitatis next, at any time during this said term, but may make their apparance by their attorneys, saving only in Cases of Outlawry, and other the Cases mentioned in the proviso hereafter following: And also that no Iuries or any whom the same may concern, shalbe compelled or need to appear in any of his highnesse Courts at Westminster in or from the said Octabis Trinitatis next, at any time during the said term for any cause or matter whatsoever, unless it be for some special and important cause for his majesties service onely. provided nevertheless, and his majesties pleasure and commandement is, That all Collectors, receivers, Sheriffes, and other accountants, and all other persons that should or ought to account or pay any sum or sums of money in any of his majesties Courts of Exchequer, Court of Wards and liveries, or of his Duchy of Lancaster, or in any of them, or enter into any account in any of the said Courts, shal repair to the accustomend places at Westminster, and there to pay and do in every behalf as though no such Proclamation or adjournment had been had or made. And his majesties further pleasure and commandement is, That all Sheriffes shall return into his majesties Court of Exchequer, Court of Wards and liveries, and Duchy of Lancaster, all maner of Writs and process issued out of the same Courts, and returnable this term, which in any sort concern his majesties revenues, Debts, or Dueties, at or before the dayes of returns thereof, into such Offices from whence the said Writs and process did issue: And that all Commissioners likewise return all maner of Commissions and Inquisitions returnable this term, and from the said Courts sent, whereby his majesty is to receive profit and commodity: And all Sheriffes, Collectors, all maner of accountants, and every person that is to pay any kind of debt or duty unto the Kings majesty in any of the said Courts, do either by themselves, their deputies, or attorneys, pay the same in such sort as they ought to haue done if no such Proclamation or adjournment had been made, or else to sustain such damage of Issues, seizure, Fine, Amerciament, and penalty to be imposed vpon them, as hath been accustomend, without any hope to be discharged thereof: And that all Sheriffes, by themselves or their sufficient Deputies, shall give their attendance at the day appointed for their opposal in the Court of Exchequer, to answer their returns before his said Barons, as hath been heretofore accustomend: And if any default shall bee made by any of the persons aforesaid, that then in respect of the Kings present necessary and extraordinary charges, Sergeants at arms and pursuivants shall be sent to bring them up to answer their contempt and slackness in payment. given at our manor of Greenwich the 23. day of june, in the first year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and the six and thirtieth of Scotland. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation for the apprehension of Anthony Copley. ALthough it cannot be without grief to us to publish, that in this our kingdom we should find any subject so contrary to all the rest of our loving people, who in so great multitudes haue made perfect proof of their unspotted loyalty to us: Yet hath there such an accident happened so far beyond our expectation, as We could not conceal it without prejudice to ourself, and our Estate, whereof we assure ourselves, that all our good subiects will be very sensible, that is, that it hath been discovered to us by several persons, that one Anthony Copley, the younger brother of one Copley that is lately returned from foreign parts into this country, hath dealt with some to be of a conspiracy to use some violence vpon our Person, whereby must either haue followed peril to our life, or danger of innovation in our State. Which Anthony Copley, having been sought for since his practising with others, by the ordinary Officers and ministers of our State, in places about our Court, and our city of London, cannot yet be found: So as it seemeth he lurketh very closely, awaiting opportunity to attempt his treasonable purposes, or to procure other of our Subiects to conspire with him in so disloyal a fact. Wherefore we haue found it necessary to make public declaration to all our people of his wicked purpose, knowing well that all true and loyal Subiects, howsoever divided from the State in matter of Religion, will abhor so ungracious and traitorous a mind, of which good affection Wee require them all to make proof, by doing their endeavours to discover and apprehended the said Anthony Copley wheresoever he may be found: Charging all Lieutenants, deputy Lieutenants, Iustices of peace, Maiors, sheriffs, Constables, and all other our Ministers whomsoever, to bee diligent in inquiring and searching for the said Anthony Copley: whom if they shall happen to take, Our pleasure is they sand him presently to our privy counsel, or to some of our ordinary Magistrates, to abide the trial of our laws for his fact. And do further declare, That if any person of our realm shall conceal, harbour, keep or maintain the said Anthony Copley, after they haue by this our Proclamation, or otherwise, notice of his traitorous purpose: We must, as there is just cause, extend against them the power of our indignation, and the rigour of our laws, though We shall be sorry to find any such occasion given by any of our Subiects whom we do hold so dear. given at our Honour of Windsor the 2. day of july, in the first year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and the six and thirtieth of Scotland. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation for reformation of great abuses in Measures. WHereas for the avoiding of variety and deceits of Weights& Measures, diuers Statutes, Acts and good Ordinances haue heretofore been made, That one Weight, and one Measure should bee used throughout the realm, And where, according to the Statutes made in the eleventh and twelfth yeres of the reign of the late King of famous memory King Henry the seventh, there were made, sent, and delivered into diuers Cities and towns, specified in a Schedule unto the said Act of 11. H. 7. annexed, Weights and Measures of brass according to the Standards thereof remaining in the treasury of the Exchequer, to remain in the keeping of the Maior, bailiff, or other head Officer for the time being, of every of the same City or town, as the Kings Standard of Weight and Measure, with authority and power given by the same Statute, to the said Maior, bailiff, or other head Officer, having the said weights and Measures, to make, sign and print like Weights and Measures unto every of the Kings Subiects, duly requiring the same, as by the said Statutes more at large appeareth: And whereas also our late sovereign Lady Elizabeth late queen of England, being informed that the said Standard measures remaining in those Cities and towns, for the most part were by long continuance of time, or for want of good keeping, or other defects or abuses, differing and not agreeing with the ancient Standard or Measures remaining in her highnesse Exchequer at Westminster, by occasion whereof the Measures commonly used within the realm were uncertain, and varying one from another, to the great slander of the same, the disquieting of the Subiects, and the deceiving of many both buyers and sellers, Did give order and commandement to the L. Treasurer and under Treasurer, to cause all the ancient Standard measures of all those several Cities and towns to bee brought in before them at the Exchequer at Westminster, to be examined and tried by the Standard measure there remaining, according to which her majesties commandement, the Lord Treasurer and under Treasurer haue caused al the ancient Standard measures of all those several Cities and towns to be brought before them into the said Exchequer, where diuers of them vpon diligent and due trial and examination haue been found defective, differing and disagreeing from the true and ancient Standard of the said Exchequer. Whereupon the said late queen intending the common and public good of all her loving Subiects, and to avoid all differences and deceits of Measure within her highnesse realm, vpon good and deliberate aduise, and due consideration therein had, Did not onely establish the foresaid true and ancient Standard of Measures remaining in the said Exchequer, there to continue and be, as her majesties Standard, to examine, try, and size all other Measures of the realm by, from time to time as occasion shall require: But also did give commandement to the L. Treasurer& under Treasurer, to cause all the other Measures which were brought before them( from the Cities and towns aforesaid) found vpon trial to be differing and disagreeing from the true and ancient Standards of measures of the said Exchequer, to be broken. And further her majesty did give order and commandement unto the said Lord Treasurer and under Treasurer, forthwith to cause new Standards of measures in brass to be made, tried, and approved by the said true and ancient Standard of the Exchequer, and after true and just examination and trial thereof had and made, to size and seal( with the letter E. crwoned) such and so many Standard measures, for every of the said several Cities and towns limited to haue the custody of Weights and measures, according to the queens Standard for every Shire by the said schedule annexed unto the said Statute made in the eleventh year of the reign of King Henry the seventh, there to remain for ever in the keeping of the Maior, bailiff, or other head Officer for the time being of the said City and town as her Standard of measure, as to them should seem necessary and convenient. And also as many as may serve and be convenient for the clerk of the Market of her highnesse household( and through the realm) or his Deputies, according to the Statute of Anno 16. R. 2. Cap. 3. And also as might or should serve for any other her majesties Officers or Subiects within this realm as should make suite for the having and obtaining of the same. And now our sovereign Lord the Kings majesty, minding likewise the quietness and public good of all his loving subiects, and for the right and just maintenance, and execution of all those good and godly laws in that behalf heretofore made by his most noble Progenitors, to be daily used and put in execution amongst all his said Subiects of this his Highnesse realm of England, as well within Liberties as without; His majesties will and pleasure is, That the Maiors, bailiffs, Portreues, Wardens, and other head Officers of every of the said Cities, Boroughs, towns, Cinqueports, and places mentioned in the schedule annexed to the said Statute of Anno 11. H. 7. which haue not already received the said new Standard measure from the said Exchequer, before the feast of S. Bartholomew next coming, at the common charge of the same place, shall sand some sufficient person unto the said Exchequer, authorised to receive such Standards as shal be delivered unto him, by the order& appointment of the said L. Treasurer& under-treasurer, for the said City, Borough, town, or place, and to pay such reasonable prices for the same, as vpon true valuation of the same shall bee by the said L. Treasurer and under Treasurer ranted or assessed: which Standards every of the said Maiors, bailiffs, and other head Officers unto whom it shall appertain, shall safely keep or cause to be kept in some sure and convenient place in the same city, Borough, or town, and by them make or size, or cause to be made or sized, other common measures for the use of all maner of people in the same city, Borough, town, or place that shal haue cause to use Measures. And shall also make, sign, and print with the first letter of the name of the same City, Borough, town, or place where the same shall be so made, sized, and printed, like measures unto every of the Kings subiects duly requiring the same, taking such fees for the doing thereof as by the Statutes of the realm are allowed, and no more. And every of the said Maiors, bailiffs,& other head Officers of Cities, Boroughs, towns, and places within this realm, shall further do and cause to bee done, all such other act and acts, thing and things, for the providing, having, and using of the said Standards of Measures, as be limited and appoynted to their or any of their authority by the said Statutes made in the eleventh and twelfth yeeres of the late King Henry the seventh, or any other Statute or Ordinance whatsoever: So as al the Measures through the realm may be reformed and made agreeable according to the Standard of the Exchequer, as by the said Statutes in such case is required. And his majesty further straitly chargeth and commandeth, That no person or persons shall from the aforesaid feast of S. Bartholomew next coming, use any other Measure or Measures, but such as shal be made or sized, and respectively agreeing with the said Standards, and printed and marked with the letter I. crwoned, with such marks and letters for every town as before is limited, vpon pain to be apprehended, committed to prison, fined and punished, as contrivers and vsers of false Measures, according to the Statutes in that case made and provided. And that this Proclamation for the better instructing of all his majesties Subiects, shall before the feast of All Saints now next coming, be proclaimed in every Market town thorough the realm, and be hanged up, and fastened in a Table in the Market place by an Officer, where it may continue to be seen and red by any that will. And that the defaults of Officers, of every town in this behalf, shall be inquired of and punished by the Iustices of assize, and Iustices of Peace in their Sessions, according to their discretions, as contemners of his majesties commandment. And that all the Standards and measures whatsoever, not sized, marked and printed, and made respectively agreeing to and with the foresaid Standard, and the true meaning of this Proclamation, shall from the said feast of All Saints next coming, which shalbe in the year of our Lord God 1603. be reputed and taken for untrue Measures, and shalbe broken, defaced and destroyed by the owners of the same, or by such officers as haue or shall haue authority to inquire of false Weights and measures. And for the better execution hereof, his highnesse express commandement is, That all Maiors, bailiffs, and other head officers of every City, Shire, town, Borough or Market within this realm, shall immediately after the said feast of All Saints, and so from time to time according to the said Statute, as all other Corporate, Borough, or Market towns within this realm, cause to be brought before them all the Measures, within the same Cities, Boroughs, Corporate or Market towns, to bee duly viewed and examined, and such as they shall find defective or disagreeing unto the foresaid Standard measures, either in greatness or smallness, to cause to be broken and defaced, and further punishment to be done vpon the offenders therein, according to the Statute. And that the Iustices of Peace, or two of them( whereof one of them to be of the Quorum) shall with all diligence and from time to time, by examination or enquiry hear and determine the defaults of all Maiors, bailiffs, and other head Officers of Cities, Boroughs, Corporate or Market towns within their limits or authorities on that behalf, and to set Fines and Amercements vpon the offenders in that behalf by their discretions, and those to estreat into the Court of Exchequer, and that vpon pain of the punishment due for such contempt. And lastly, his majesty straitly chargeth and commandeth all Iustices of Assize, Iustices of Peace, his highnesse clerk of the Market, his deputy or deputies, Maiors, bailiffs, Stewards of Liberties, and all other his majesties Officers and ministers whatsoever, to cause this present Proclamation, and all laws, Statutes, and Ordinances, for the having and using of true measures, and for the abolishing the use of false measures, to be put in execution according to their several Authorities and jurisdictions, as they herein tender the good service of his majesty, and the Common wealth of this realm. given at his majesties Castle of Windsor the fift day of july, in the first year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and of Scotland the six and thirtieth. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation signifying the Kings majesties pleasure, touching the resort of people to his Coronation. FOrasmuch as we find that the infection within our City of London doth daily increase, and is like( to our grief) rather to augment then to diminish, aswell by reason of the season of the year, as by the great Concourse of people to our said city against the time of our Coronation, some to do their duties in such necessary services, as to them belongeth at that solemnity, and some for comfort they take in the sight of our Person, of the queen our dear wife, and of our children; Although there could be no greater ioy to us then the presence and confluence of all sorts of good Subiects at such a time, when the more there should be partakers of that public rejoicing, the more should bee our particular comfort: yet such is our fear lest this their resort should work a contrary effect both to their and our expectation, namely to be a means not onely of increasing the infection within our city, but of dispersing it into all places of this realm, as we had rather forbear some part of our ornament and custom, which is due to the honour and solemnity of our Coronation, then by having the uttermost thereof performed, be the occasion of so great an evil to our people, as is the spreading of the infection amongst them, Wherefore wee haue thought it best to forbear of that solemnity, whatsoever is not essential to it, and to defer all show of State and pomp accustomend by our Progenitors, which is not of necessity to be done within the Church at the time of our Coronation, as also to omit our solemn entry and passage through our city of London for this time, intending to perform the same hereafter in the winter, when we shall perceive our City to be free from sickness. And of this our purpose and of the causes thereof, we haue thought good to give notice to all our Subiects by Proclamation, to the end that as well those of our said city may forbear to proceed in such shows& Ornaments, as we hear they out of their love haue in hand to honour our said entry, as also all other people may abstain from resorting to our said city at this time, other then such, as haue necessary employment in that solemnity, and chiefly about such parts thereof as are to be performed onely within the Church: whom also we require to bring with them no greater train of seruants, then of necessity they must use each of them in his degree about their persons, wherein they shall both provide for their own good, and give us great satisfaction in comforming themselves dutifully to this our Admonition. given at our Castle of Windsor, the sixth day of july, in the first year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and of Scotland, the six and thirtieth. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation for Iustice to be indifferently ministered to the Subiects of England and Scotland. WEe haue since our entry into this realm of England, had special care to make all our Subiects know, with how equal affection we resolved to proceed in all things which should concern the safety or honour of our kingdoms, for both which we know we are to make one and the selfsame account to Almighty God, under whom wee hold all earthly things; In which respect, we were very curious to prevent at our first coming all maner of offences or affronts, which naturally do arise between several Nations at their first joining in society and conversation, never ceasing to lay severe commandement vpon our greatest Subiects that came in with us, to suppress any injurious Actions of any of their Seruants or train, towards the meanest subject of English birth, in whom from the highest to the lowest we haue observed so great love and general obedience to us and our commandements: And whensoever it hath come to our ears that any offence hath been done by any of them, We haue made them know how much it hath displeased vs. Notwithstanding, because we do hear of many insolences reported to be committed by our Nation of Scotland to our English Subiects, with this addition further, That the Magistrates and Iustices are thought to be remiss towards such, in doubt lest the same should be offensively reported to us: We haue thought it convenient aswell for the satisfaction of the one sort, as for admonition to the others, to publish by open signification, That seeing it hath pleased Almighty God to call us to the Supreme power over both, We are purposed to be an universal and equal sovereign to them both, and to administer Iustice where there shall be occasion, without any worldly respect to either of them. And therefore do hereby enjoin all Lieutenants, Deputy Lieutenants, Iustices of Peace, and all other our Officers and ministers of this kingdom, that whensoever complaint shall be made to any of them, that breach of Peace is committed by those of our nation of Scotland, vpon the Subiects of England, or by the Subiects of England vpon those of the nation of Scotland, In both which kindes wee hear of many great abuses, though sometimes aggravated according to the humour of the reporters, they shall carefully vpon every complaint, examine with all indifferency the particulars of every such Action, and cause punishment to be inflicted vpon the party offending, without respect of nation, according to the laws of this realm. And to the end they may not doubt to proceed to the execution thereof: As we do hereby not onely assure them that wee will strengthen and maintain all Officers and Magistrates in the execution of their Offices, for the preservation of the public Peace of this realm: So if we shall see at any time that any Magistrate shalbe slow to redress such grievances, or punish the Offenders, We shall haue cause to think, that they are willing to nourish some cause of such rumors, the rather to serve for colour or cause of further alienation, and so by consequence of sedition amongst our people,& an hindrance to that union between both States, which is one of the greatest benefits that we bring with us to our people for their strength and safety; in governing of whom, though we must use, as all other Princes do, the ministry of subordinate Ministers, yet God Almighty knoweth, that in our own mind there is not a thought of partiality towards either of them, but an internal desire and resolution to afford indifferent grace and Iustice to all: For demonstration whereof we haue been forced to publish thus much, lest the iniquity of faction and unruly spirits might blemish the innocency and integrity of our heart towards all our Subiects, whom wee hold dearer then our own life. given at our Castle of windsor the eight day of july, in the first year of our reign of England, France, and Ireland, and of Scotland the six and thirtieth. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation for the deferring of S. james Faire, for certain dayes. THe care we haue to prevent all occasions of dispersing the Infection amongst our people, doth sufficiently appear by our former Proclamations, and that for that cause we are contented to forbear at our Coronation all such ceremonies of honour and pomp used by our Progenitors, as may draw over great confluence of people to our city. For which cause also being informed that usually about the day of our Coronation intended, and for some dayes after, a Faire hath been used to be kept in the fields near our house of S. james, and City of Westminster, commonly called S. james Faire, which if it should hold at the time accustomend, being the very instant of our Coronation, could not but draw resort of people to that place, much more unfit to bee near our Court and train, then such as by former Proclamations are restrained. Wherefore we haue thought it necessary to put off the keeping of that Faire for some few dayes: And to the end that all men may take notice thereof, do publish the same to all mens knowledge, Requiring those who are Lords of the Faire, or otherwise interested therein, That according to this our pleasure, they do forbear to hold the said Faire, and to resort thither, for the space of eight or ten dayes after the first day of the usual holding thereof: licencing them after that time to keep the same, as they haue used to do. Furthermore, to avoid over great resort to our Cities of London and Westminster at that time, for the cause of our Coronation, we haue thought good to limit the trains of Noblemen and Gentlemen, having necessary service or attendance there, to a number certain, Viz. earls to sixteen, Bishops and Barons to ten, Knights to six, and Gentlemen to four: which numbers we require each of them to observe, and not to exceed, as they tender our favour. given at our Castle of Windsor, the 11. day of july, in the first year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and of Scotland, the six and thirtieth. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation for the apprehension of certain Conspirators. WEe haue by our late Proclamation, published for the apprehension of one Anthony Copley, signified what grief it was unto us, that any subject of this Realm, of how mean condition soever, should give us just cause to put in use the power of our laws for any offence against us in matter of loyalty. And although we haue no little comfort in the experience which that first occasion gave us, of the love and obedience of the universal number of our Subiects, by whose diligence and care of our person the said Copley hath been apprehended: yet hath the same brought us withall, cause of further grief, in that by the said Copleys confession, there is discovered a conspiracy of a great number of others to haue made an attempt not onely dangerous to our person, but to our whole state: whereof some principal gentlemen of quality are already apprehended, some others cannot yet be found by the ordinary ministers of our iustice. wherefore, we haue thought good to give knowledge of thē to all our subiects by open proclamation, not doubting but to find as good fruits of their love in their diligent enquiry after these persons, as wee did of Copley: Requiring and charging all Lieutenants, deputy Lieutenants, Iustices of peace, Maiors, Sheriffes, bailiffs, Constables, and all other our Officers and Ministers whatsoever, to use all care and diligence in the inquiring, searching for, and apprehending of Sir Griffin Markham Knight, and such other persons, as are here in the foot of this Proclamation described. And if they shall be so happy as to find any of them, to sand them presently up to some of our council. And though we doubt not but that we shall find good proof of the care of all good Subiects in doing their dueties herein: Yet seeing it is a cause that doth so nearly concern not onely our Person, but the subversion of the State of this realm, Wee cannot but add this further charge, That if we shall perceive that any shal use remissness, negligence, or other omission of their duty in pursuing this our pleasure, we shall haue cause to judge otherwise of them, and to proceed otherwise with them, then willingly we would haue cause to do with any subject of this realm: in whom we must aclowledge that in general we haue found as much love and duty, as could possibly be expressed. given at our Honour of Hampton Court the 16. day of july, in the first year of our reign of England, France, and Ireland, and in the 36. of Scotland. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ The description of the persons. SIr Griffin Markham hath a large broad face, of a bleak complexion, a big nose, one of his hands is maimed by an hurt in his arm, received by the shot of a bullet, he hath thin and little hair vpon his beard; All his brethren are tall of stature, young, and without any hair of their faces, of exceeding swarthy and bad complexions, and haue all very great noses. WIlliam Watson priest is a man of the lowest sort, about xxxvi. yeeres of age, his hair betwixt a bram& flaxen, he looketh asquint, and is very purblind, so as if he read any thing he putteth the paper near to his eyes, he did wear his beard at length of the same coloured hair as is his head. But information is given that now his beard is cut. WIlliam clerk priest is a man of middle stature, inclining to the lower sort, about the age of xxxvi. yeeres, his hair is betwixt read and yellow, he keepeth his beard close cut, he is not lean nor corpulent, but betwixt both, rather lean. ¶ A Proclamation enjoining all Lieutenants, and Iustices of Peace to repair into their Countreys, and all idle persons to depart the Court. THe Solemnities of our Coronation being now performed according to the usages and customs of this our realm of England, and with mutual contentment, as well of us in the zeal and love of our people at the performance thereof expressed, as of them in the expectation of our government; Wee haue entred into consideration of the state of the several parts of the body of our realm, and therein do find, that the absence of the Noblemen and Gentlemen which are used to reside there in several quarters, is accompanied with great inconvenience, as well in the want of relief which the poorer sort did receive by their ordinary Hospitality, as also chiefly in the defect of government, whereby besides other inconveniences, through lack of order, the infection of the plague spreadeth and scattereth itself into diuers places of the realm, and is like further to increase, if by the presence and care of such as are in authority and credit amongst our people, they be not contained in some good course, for the preventing of that contagion. wherefore having taken order for the returning home into their Countreys of diuers of the Nobility of our Nation of Scotland, and others also, who to do us honour at our Coronation, haue attended here since the entering of us and the queen our dear wife into this kingdom: We haue thought good also to publish to all other good Subiects of this realm, that our pleasure is, and wee command that all such as are not our seruants in ordinary, or be not bound to attendance about our Court by express commandement of us, or our council, shall immediately depart home into their Countreys; Specially all deputy Lieutenants, and all such as are in Commission of the Peace, there to attend their several charges, and chiefly to prevent by all good means the spreading of this contagion of the Plague. For seeing now there is no necessary cause why any man should abide either about our City of London, or about our Court, who is not our ordinary seruant, we shall haue just cause to be offended with such, as shall contrary to this our pleasure, voluntarily absent themselves from the places where their dueties do require they should abide. And whereas we are given to understand, That notwithstanding our former Proclamation, there do continually hang vpon our Court, a great number of idle& masterless persons, as well Scottish as English, who can give no account of their abode here: For preventing hereof our pleasure is, That all Noblemen and Gentlemen our ordinary seruants or attendants in Court, shall presently within three dayes after the publishing hereof, deliver in to our chamberlain, to the officers of our Greencloth, and to our knight Marshall, to each of them a Roll of the names of such as be their seruants in ordinary, wherein we require them to haue care to retain no more then they must needs be served with: With which Roll wee haue given charge, that the said Knight Marshall shall continually ride, both in the day time and in the night about our Court, and whomsoever they shall find not contained in the said Roll, they shall punish according to the laws of our realm, or otherwise as shalbe thought meet for such contempts. And for that our pleasure also is, during the time of this infection, That our Court be not followed with unnecessary multitudes under pretence of suits, We do charge all suitors to abstain from following of us for this time, saving onely such as haue Suits, or cause of attendance of our council for necessary services. For the discerning whereof, wee haue appointed, that the Masters of our Requests, or one of them, with one of the clerks of our council, or of our Signet, shall reside at Kingston till Wednesday next, of purpose to receive the petitions of all such as suppose they haue any necessary cause to attend for the service at the Court, and shall allow such as they shall see cause why for our service they should be pursued, and all others defer till the Winter: And after that day passed no Suitor shall be allowed to follow the Court, vpon what pretence soever, during this Contagion. given at our honour of Hampton the 29. day of july, in the first year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and of Scotland the seven and thirtieth. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation, prohibiting the keeping of Bartholomew Faire, and Sturbridge Faire. THe spreading of the infection in our City of London, and in the places next about it, doth give us just cause to be as provident as a careful Prince can be, to take away all occasion of increasing the same. And if such directions as we gave, and our council, at our first approaching to the City, had been obeied, it is like that( with Gods favour) the sickness had neither grown to that height, nor spread so far as now it is. But that having been omitted by the negligence of such whom it most concerned to haue had it performed, The same care of our peoples welfare moveth us as much as we may, to provide for the time to come. And forasmuch as there are at hand two notable fairs, unto which there is usually extraordinary resort out of all parts of the kingdom, one in Smithfield near our City of London, commonly called Bartlemew Faire, and the other near Cambridge commonly called Sturbridge Faire, which if they should be held at the usual times, would in all likelihood be the occasion both of the increase, and of dispersing of the contagion into all the parts of our realm: Wee haue thought good by open declaration of our pleasure, not onely to admonish, and to require all our loving Subiects, to forbear to resort at this time to any of the said two fairs, of Bartlemew near London, and of Sturbridge, but also to enjoin to the Lords of the said fairs, and others interested therein, and of all other fairs within fifty miles of our City of London, that they shal not hold the said fairs, nor any thing appertaining to them, at the times accustomend, nor any time till they shall be licenced by us, vpon pain of such punishment, as for a contempt so much concerning the universal safety of our people, they shall be adiudged to deserve, Which they shall be assured that we will cause to be inflicted vpon them with all severity. For such is our desire to prevent an universal contagion among our people, which this infection threateneth, as we will not spare any one who shal be cause of dispersing such an evil among them. And we do further charge and enjoin under like penalty, to all Citizens and inhabitants of our City of London, that none of them shall repair to any fairs held within any part of this realm, until it shall please God to cease the infection now reigning amongst them. given at our Honour of Hampton Court the eight day of August, in the first year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and of Scotland, the seven and thirtieth. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation against Inmates and multitudes of dwellers in straight rooms and places in and about the City of London: And for the rasing and pulling down of certain new erected buildings. WHereas it falleth out by woeful experience, that the great confluence and access of excessive numbers of idle, indigent, dissolute and dangerous persons, And the pestering of many of them in small and straight rooms and habitations in the City of London, and in and about the Suburbs of the same, haue been one of the chiefest occasions of the great plague and mortality, which hath not onely most extremely abounded in and about the said City, and Suburbs thereof, and especially in such straight rooms and places, and amongst persons of such quality, but also from thence hath most dangerously overspread, and infected very many principal, and other parts of this realm,( which Almighty God cease at his good pleasure) His majesty tendering the safety of his loving Subiects, and minding, as much as in him lieth, to avoid the continuance or renewing of such mortality, doth by the advice of his privy council, not onely straitly require and command that his majesties good and profitable Orders and directions already published for the staying( if God so please) of the same Infection, be carefully, speedily, and duly executed, but also doth straitly prohibit and forbid, That no new Tenant or Inmate, or other person or persons, be admitted to inhabit or reside in any such house or place in the said City, Suburbs, or within four miles of the same, which haue been so infected, during the continuance of this Plague and mortality, in or about the said City, nor after, until such time and as it shalbe thought safe and expedient by the principal Officers there for the time being, That is to say, if it be within the said City, by the Alderman of the Ward, or his deputy; if without, then by the next Iustice of the Peace. Wherein his majesty straitly doth charge and require every of the said Aldermen, and their Deputies, and every Iustice of the Peace to whom it shall appertain, That they take special care, that none of the foresaid rooms, houses, or places be hereafter pestered with multitudes of dwellers, or with any Inmates. And that such of the said rooms, houses, or places as by Proclamation heretofore published, are ordered or appointed to be razed or pulled down, shall forth with, the same being now void, or as the same shall hereafter become void, be razed and pulled down accordingly. And being once pulled down, that they or any of them at any time afterwards, suffer not any of the same to be newly erected, as they will answer the contrary at their uttermost peril. given at his majesties Mannor of Woodstocke, the 16. day of September, in the first year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and of Scotland the seven and thirtieth. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation for the adjournment of part of Michaelmas term. FOrasmuch as the Kings majesty our sovereign Lord is credibly informed, that the infection of the Plague is at this present in sundry places in and about the City of London, and in other places near adjoining to the same, Whereas by the continuance thereof, through the greater repair and resort of his loving Subiects, great peril and danger might not onely ensue unto his most royal Person, but also to his most loving Subiects repairing thither for their suits and causes, and thereby also give occasion of dispersing of the same into other parts of the realm: His majesty for the said necessary considerations, and hoping that the same will by the goodness of Almighty God with the coldness of the year, and such wholesome Orders as are taken in the said City, the rather cease by the adiournment of part of this next term of S. Michael now at hand, from the utas of the same, until the fourth return of the said term, called mensae Michaelis next coming His majesty therefore of his especial favour and clemency is pleased and contented to adjourn the said term of S. Michael( that is to say) from the utas thereof, unto the said fourth return of the said term called mensae Michaelis next coming, which his majesty signifieth to all and singul●● his loving Subiects of this his realm, to the intent that they and every of them which hath cause or commandment to appear in any of his highnesse Courts at Westminster in or at any day or time from and after the said utas of S. Michael, may tarry at their dwellings, or where their business otherwise shall lye, without resorting to any of the said Courts for that cause before the said mensae Michaelis next coming, and that without danger of forfeiture, penalty, or contempt to incur towards his highnesse in that behalf. And nevertheless, his majesties pleasure is, that two of his Iustices,( that is to say) of either Bench one, shall the first day of Michaelmas term, called Octabis Michaelis, according to the ancient order of the laws, keep the Essoines of the said Octabis Michaelis: at which utas of S. Michael, writs of adiournment shalbe directed to the said Iustices, giuing them authority to adjourn the said term of S. Michael( that is to say,) From the utas thereof, until the fourth return, as before is said: And the said Adiournment shalbe made in the first day of the said utas, commonly called the day of Essoines. And further his majesties pleasure is, that all matters, causes and Suits depending in any of his other Courts between party and party, as in his Highnes Courts of Chancery, star-chamber,& Exchequer, Courts of Wards and liveries, Duchy of Lancaster, and Court of Requests, shal haue continuance, and the parties shall haue day from the date of these presents until the said fourth return, as before is said. provided alway, and his majesties pleasure and commandement is, that all Collectors, receivers, Sheriffes and other accountants, and all other persons that should or ought to account or pay any sum or sums of money in any of his majesties Courts of Exchequer, Court of Wards and liveries, and of his duchy of Lancaster, or in any of them, or to enter into any account in any of the said Courts, shall repair unto his majesties house of Richmond, where his highnesse hath appointed such Officers& ministers, as for that purpose his majesty hath thought expedient, and there to pay and do in every behalf, as though no such Proclamation of adjournment had been had or made. And his highnesse further pleasure and commandement is, that all Sheriffes shall return their Writs and process, against all such accountants and debters, at the dayes therein appointed. And if any person or persons who ought to account or pay any sum or sums of money to his majesty in any of the Courts and places aforesaid, do make default therein, That then his highnesse Writs and process shalbe awarded and sent forth against every such person and persons, and the same to be duly and orderly served, and returned by the Sheriffes and Officers thereunto appointed, in such like maner and form, as the same should haue been if this present Proclamation had not been made. And if any sheriff or other Officer shall make default, or be negligent in serving, executing, or returning of any the Writs and process aforesaid, That then every such sheriff and other Officer, shall incur such pains and penalties, as by the said Courts or any of them shalbe taxed and assessed. Willing and commanding all and every his majesties Sheriffes, officers, ministers and Subiects to whom it doth or shall appertain, to observe and keep their assemblies and appearances, with all their returns and Certificates, in his highnes said Courts at Westminster in mensae Michaelis next coming, then and there to be holden and kept, and there to do their offices and dueties in every behalf, in like maner and form as they should or ought to haue done, if this present Proclamation had not been had or made, as they will answer to the contrary at their perils. given at his majesties Mannour of Woodstocke, the 16. day of September, in the first year of his highnes reign of England, France and Ireland, and of Scotland, the seven and thirtieth. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation for the due and speedy execution of the statute against Rogues, Vagabonds, idle, and dissolute persons. WHereas at a Parliament holden at Westminster in the nine and thirtieth year of the reign of his majesties late dear sister deceased queen Elizabeth, a profitable and necessary Law was made for the repressing of Rogues, Vagabonds, idle and dissolute persons, wherewith this realm was then much infested, by the due execution of which Law, great good ensued to the whole Common weal of this realm, but now of late by the remissness, negligence, and connivency of some Iustices of the Peace, and other Officers in diuers parts of the realm, they haue swarmed and abounded every where more frequently then in times past, which will grow to the great imminent danger of the whole realm, if by the goodness of God Almighty, and the due and timely execution of the said Law the same be not prevented. And where to the end that no impediment might be to the due and full execution of the same Law, his highnesse privy council, according to the power to them in that behalf given by the said Law, haue by their Order assigned places and parts beyond the Seas, unto which such incorrigible or dangerous Rogues should according to the same Law be banished and conveyed, as by the Order in that behalf made, and under this present Proclamation particularly mentioned and set down, more at large appeareth: His majesty purposing( for the universal good of the whole realm) to haue the same Law duly and fully executed, doth by aduise of his privy council require all Iustices of Peace, Maiors, bailiffs, Hedboroughs, Constables, and other Officers whatsoever to whom it appertaineth, to see that the said Law be in all the parts, and branches of the same carefully, duly and exactly executed, as they and every of them will answer the contrary at their uttermost perils. given at his majesties Mannour of Woodstocke the 17. day of September, in the first year of his highnesse reign of England, France and Ireland, and the seven and thirtieth of Scotland. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ THE ORDER. FOrasmuch as it hath appeared unto us as well by our own views in our travails in this present progress of his majesty, as also by good and credible information from diuers and sundry parts of the realm, that Rogues grow again and increase to be incorrigible, and dangerous not onely to his majesties loving Subiects abroad, but also to his majesty and his honourable household and attendants in and about his Court, which growing partly through the remissness of some Iustices of the peace, and other Officers in the Counttey, and partly for that there hath been no svit made for assigning some place beyond the seas, to which such incorrigible or dangerous Rogues might be banished, according to the Statute in that behalf made: Wee therefore of his majesties privy council, whose names are hereunto subscribed, finding it of necessity to reform great abuses, and to haue the due execution of so good and necessary a Law, do according to the power limited unto us by the same Statute, hereby assign and think it fit and expedient, that the places and parts beyond the Seas to which any such incorrigible or dangerous Rogues shalbe banished and conveyed according to the said Statute, shal be these countreys and places following, viz. The Newfound Land, the East and West Indies, France, germany, spain, and the Low countreys, or any of them. T. Buckhurst. suffolk. R. cecil. Lenox. devonshire. E. Wotton. Notingham. Mar. jo. Stanhop. ¶ A Proclamation to repress all Piracies and Depredations vpon the Sea. THe Kings majesty being certainly informed through the manifold and daily complaints made to his highnesse, as well by his own Subiects as others, of the continual Depredations, and Piracies committed on the Seas by certain lewd and ill disposed persons; and finding that the ordinary proceedings held of late times for the suppressing of these enormities and offences, haue wrought less reformation then was expected: In his Princely care to preserve Iustice, as one of the main pillars of his Estate, and for the speedier suppressing of all such Piracies and Depredacious crimes, most hateful to his mind, and scandalous to his peaceable government, and for the better continuance of amity with all other Princes and States; Hath with the aduise of his privy counsel, for the speedy prevention or severe punishment hereafter of such fowle crimes and Piracies, Set down certain Articles hereunto annexed, which his highnesse commandeth all his Officers whom it may concern, of what degree soever, to see duly executed, Wherein if any maner of person shalbe found culpable or wilfully negligent, contemptuous, or disobedient, His majesty declareth hereby, that punishment shalbe inflicted vpon him or them with such severity, as the example thereof shall terrify all others from committing any so odious crimes, or contemptuous offences. FIrst, that no man of war be furnished or set out to Sea by any of his majesties Subiects, under pain of death and confiscation of Lands and goods, not onely to the Captaines and Mariners, but also to the owners& Victuallers, if the company of the said ship shall commit any piracy, Depredation or murder at the Sea, vpon any of his majesties friends. Item, that if any person whatsoever shall vpon the Seas take any Ship that doth belong to any of his majesties friends and Allies, or to any of their Subiects, or shall take out of it by force any goods of what nature or quality soever, he or they so offending shall suffer death, with confiscation of Lands and goods, according to the Law in that case provided. Item, that all admiral causes( except the causes now depending before the Commissioners for causes of Depredations) shal be summarily heard by the judge of the high Court of the admiralty, without admitting any unnecessary delay. Item, that no appeal from him be admitted to the defendant or defendants in causes of Depredation, either against the offenders, or their accessaries, before or after the offence committed, or those in whose possession the goods spoyled are found, unless first by way of provision, the sum adiudged be paid to the plaintiff vpon Sureties to repay it, if the Sentence shalbe reversed. Item, that no prohibition in such cases of spoil and their accessaries or dependences be granted hereafter. Item, that no ship or goods taken from any his majesties friends, shall bee delivered by any other order then vpon proof made in the said Court of the admiralty, before the said judge or his deputy, to the end that a Record may be kept of all such restitutions made to strangers, to serve when occasion shal require. Item, that every vice-admiral is enjoined by this Proclamation( whereof he shall take notice at his peril) to certify into the said Court of the Admiralty every quarter of the year what man of war hath gone to the Sea, or returned home within that time, with any goods taken at Sea, or the procedue thereof, vpon pain to lose to his majesty( by way of Fine) for every such default forty pounds of currant money of England, to be answered into his majesties Receipt of the Exchequer, by Certificate from the said judge of the Admiralty under the great seal of that Office, to bee directed to the Lord Treasurer and the Barons of the Exchequer. Item, that all the Kings Subiects shall forbear from aiding or receiving of any Pirate or Sea-rouer, or any person not being a known Merchant, by contracting, buying, selling or exchanging with them, or by victualling of them or any of their company, whereby they or any of them shal be the more enabled to go or return to the Seas to commit any piracy or disorder, vpon pain for so doing to be punished presently, as the principal offenders and pirates ought to be. Item, that the Viceadmirals, Customers, and the other Officers of the Ports, shal not suffer any ship to go to the Seas before such time as they respectively in their several Ports haue duly preached and visited the same, to the intent to stay such persons as apparently shall be furnished for the Warres, and not for merchandise or fishing. For if there shal be any maner of suspicion that the said person, though he shall pretend to trade for merchandise or Fishing, hath, or may haue an intent by his provisions or furniture, otherwise then to use the trade of merchandise or fishing, that in such case of suspicion the Officers of the Ports shall stay, and in no wise suffer the same to pass to the Seas without good bonds by sufficient Sureties first had, to use nothing but a lawful trade of merchandise or fishing. And if the said Officers shall suffer any person otherwise to repair to the Seas then above is mentioned, they shall not onely answer for any Piracies which any such person shall chance hereafter to do vpon the Seas, but shall suffer imprisonment until the offenders may bee apprehended, if they shall bee living. And generally his majesty declareth and denounceth all such pirates and rovers vpon the Seas to be out of his majesties Protection, and lawfully to bee by any person taken, punished, and suppressed with extremity. And whereas diuers great and enormous spoils and Piracies haue been of late time committed within the Straits of Gyblaltar by captain Thomas Tomkins gentleman, Edmond Bonham, Walter Ianuerin, Mariners, and diuers other English pirates, and the goods, moneys and merchandises brought into England by them, haue been scattered, sold, and disposed of most lewdly and prodigally, by the means of their receivers, comforters& abettors, to the exceeding prejudice of his majesties good friends the Venetians, whom they haue robbed, and to the great displeasure of God, and dishonour of this State: His majesty doth expressly command al Lieutenants, deputy Lieutenants, Admirals, Vice-admirals and their deputies, and all other Officers of the Admiralty, and al Iustices of the Peace, Maiors, Sheriffes, bailiffs, Constables, and all other his Officers and ministers whatsoever, to use all care and diligence in the enquiring, searching for, and apprehending of all such pirates, their receivers, comforters, and abettors. And if they shall by their travails and cares find any of them, to sand them presently under safe custody to the common gaols of Hampshire or Dorsetshire, there to remain without bail or mainprize, till the Lord high admiral of England, or his Lieutenant the judge of the high Court of the admiralty shall dispose of them according to the laws in that case provided. given at his majesties city of Winchester the thirtieth day of September, in the first year of his highnesse reign of England, France and Ireland, and the seven and thirtieth of Scotland. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation for the further adjournment of part of Michaelmas term from Westminster to Winchester. WHereas the Kings most excellent majesty, vpon information given to his Highnesse of the infection of the plague grown& dispersed in his cities of London and Westminster, did by his proclamation dated at his Mannor of Woodstock the sixteenth day of September last past, for the considerations therein expressed, cause the term of S. Michael to be adjourned unto the fourth return thereof, commonly called mensae Michaelis, Hoping by that time, through the goodness of almighty God, and such orders as by his majesties especial commandement were appointed to be kept and observed, and by the coldness of the air, the said infection of the plague might haue been so much diminished, as that the residue of the term might, without danger to his loving subiects, which his majesty greatly desireth, haue been continued at Westminster: Forasmuch as his majesty hath since received knowledge, by Certificates sent from London and Westminster, that the plague still continueth, and therefore doubteth that if the said term should bee kept at Westminster from the said mensae Michaelis, it could not bee but dangerous to such his loving subiects, who for Suits and other causes should make their necessary repair thither; Therefore vpon the considerations aforesaid, his majesty hath by advice of his Highnes council, thought it very expedient, that the term should be adjourned from the said return commonly called mensae Michaelis, until the return commonly called Crastino Sancti Martini next ensuing, and thereby the rest of the usual term to be continued and kept, for which purpose especial choice is made of his majesties city of Winchester, in his County of Southampton, and at which place his majesties pleasure is, that now the residue of the term shall bee kept: doth therefore declare, and hereby signify his will and pleasure, that Writs of Adiournment shall be directed to the Iustices of either Bench, and to the Iudges of all other his majesties Courts to whom like Writs haue been usually directed, giuing them authority to adjourn the residue of the said term from Westminster aforesaid, unto the said city of Winchester, there to begin in the said Crastino Martini next ensuing, and so to continue. And his majesties pleasure is, that two of his Iustices, that is to say, of either Bench one, shall on the first day of the said return, called mensae Michaelis, according to the ancient Order of the laws, keep the essoins of the said mensae Michaelis, and in the first day thereof, commonly called the day of essoins, the same adjournment shall be made from the said mensae Michaelis, until Crastino Martini as aforesaid. And further his majesties pleasure is, that all matters, causes and suits between party and party, in his Highnesse Courts of Chancery, starchamber, Exchequer, Courts of Wards and liveries, duchy of Lancaster, and Court of Requests, shall haue continuance, and the parties shall haue day from the said mensae Michaelis until the said Crastino Martini, at the said city of Winchester. Willing them and every of them to whom it doth appertain, to observe and keep their appearances and assemblies in all and every his Highnesse said Courts at the said city of Winchester in the said Crastino Martini, in like maner, form, and condition, as they would, should, or ought to haue done, if the said term and Courts had been holden and kept at Westminster, as they and every of them will answer at their perils, Any thing in his majesties said former proclamation to the contrary notwithstanding. And yet nevertheless his majesties pleasure and commandement is, for the greater safety of his loving Subiects( which of any thing in this world he chiefly desireth) in this infectious time, that no Issue triable by twelve or more jurors this next term, shall receive trial in any of his majesties Courts of Kings Bench, Common Pleas, or Exchequer, And that neither any jurors summoned, or to be summoned to appear at any return or day of this next term, shall appear for trial of any such Issue, unless it be for high Treason, or any matters or causes criminal, Nor any witness either served, or to be served with process or otherwise, shal appear, or give in evidence for trial of any such Issue,( Treasons, and matters or causes criminal excepted) but that both jurors and Witnesses may safely, according to his majesties gracious meaning herein expressed, reside and employ them in or about their own affairs, without any forfeiture, penalty, or loss whatsoever in that behalf. And whereas by the said former Proclamation his majesties pleasure and commandement was, That notwithstanding the said former adjournment, All Collectors, receivers, Sheriffes, and other accountants, and all other persons that should or ought to account, or pay any sum or sums of money in any of his majesties Courts of Exchequer, Courts of Wards and liveries, and of his duchy of Lancaster, or in any of them, or to enter into any account in any of the same Courts, should repair unto his majesties house of Richmond, where his highnesse had appointed such Officers and ministers, as for that purpose his majesty had thought expedient, and there to pay and do in every behalf, as though no such Proclamation of adjournment had been had or made: And his highnesse further pleasure and commandement was, That all Sheriffes should return their Writs and process against all such accountants and debters at the dayes therein appointed: And if any person or persons, who ought to account or pay any sum or sums of money to his majesty in any of the Courts and places aforesaid, should make default therein, That then his highnesse Writs and Processes should be awarded and sent forth against every such person and persons, and the same to be duly and orderly served and returned by the Sheriffes and Officers thereunto appointed, in such like maner and form as the same should haue been, if the said former Proclamation had not been made: And if any sheriff or other Officer should make default, or bee negligent in serving, executing, or returning of any the Writs and process aforesaid, That then every such sheriff and other Officer shall incur such pains and penalties, as by the said Courts or any of them should be taxed and assessed: Now his majesties pleasure and commandement is, That all the said Collectors, receivers, Sheriffes, and other accountants, and all other persons that shall or ought to account or pay any sum or sums of money, in any of his majesties said Courts of Exchequer, Courts of Wards and liveries, and of his Duchy of Lancaster, or in any of them, or to enter into any account in any of the said Courts, shall from henceforth until the end of the next term, repair unto his majesties said house of Richmond, where his highnesse hath appointed such Officers and ministers as for that purpose hath been thought expedient, and there al and every thing and things to be performed, done, observed, and proceeded with in such maner and form, as by the said former Proclamation herein before recited, is prescribed and commanded. And further, his majesty considering that if there should happen to be any access and apparance of his loving Subiects at the said City of Winchester during the residue of the term, of such as haue had the Plague in their houses, or haue been themselves infected therewith, There might ensue great peril and damage to those that haue as yet been clear thereof, and so further inconvenience might grow thereby to the rest of the realm: His highnesse therefore, for the avoiding thereof, doth straitly charge and command, That no such person or persons who haue been so infected, or haue had the Plague in their houses at any time since the twentieth day of july last, of what estate or degree soever he or they be, shall repair to the said City of Winchester during the residue of the said term, except he or they shalbe commanded by special process, or otherwise haue special commandement for his or their personal appearance. And yet nevertheless, every such person or persons so infected before his or their repair to the said City of Winchester, shall before he or they enter into any house within the said City or Suburbs thereof, openly notify and declare by some message his or their estate touching his or their infection, with the cause for the which he or they shalbe called by process or other commandement, to such person or persons as shal be appointed by the Lord Chancellor of England, to haue the charge of the gates and entries into the said City; So as if the said party shalbe ordered to come into the City, or into any Court within the said City, the same shall after during the time of his or their abode there, bear or hold up in his or their hand upright to be seen one read Rod of the length of one yard or more, vpon pain of his majesties displeasure, and imprisonment of their bodies during his highnesse pleasure. And further his majesty straitly chargeth and commandeth all Iustices of Peace of the said County of Southampton, dwelling within twelve miles of the said City, and all bailiffs, Constables, and head Officers of any boroughs, towns, villages or hamlets within eight miles of the said City, That they and every of them shall from and after the day of the proclaiming of this Proclamation within the said County, do their best endeavours to make, set forth, observe, and cause to be observed such good Orders, as by the goodness of God may tend most to the preservation of all places within the same circuit of eight miles from infection of the plague: And for that purpose to assemble themselves together weekly at some convenient place in the said County from the time of the publishing of this Proclamation, until the end of the residue of the said term, as well for the devising, as for the execution of such good Orders. And that the said Iustices of Peace shal in the first day of the sitting in the residue of the term, signify and declare unto the Lord Chancellor of England, all that they and the said Constables and other the said Officers shal then haue done in and about the premises, and shall also from time to time follow such directions as they shal receive from the said Lord chancellor and other of his majesties council at the said City, tending to the preservation of the places within the circuit above specified from the said infection of the Plague, Not doubting but that as well the said Iustices, as other the inferior Officers will carefully discharge their duty in that behalf, as they tender the continuance of his majesties favour, and will answer for the contrary at their perils. given at his majesties city of Winchester the 18. day of October, in the first year of his reign of England, France and Ireland, and of Scotland the seven and thirtieth. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation concerning such as seditiously seek reformation in Church matters. AS we haue ever from our infancy had manifold proofs of Gods great goodness towards us in his protecting of us from many dangers of our Person, very nearly threatening us, and none more notorious then his happy conducting of us in the late case of our succession to this crown, which contrary to most mens expectation we haue received with more quiet and concurrencie of good will of our people( otherwise perhaps of different dispositions) then ever in like accident hath been seen: So do we think that the memory of his benefits ought to be a continual solicitation to us to show ourselves thankful to his divine majesty, wherein soever opportunity shalbe offered us to do him service, but especially in things concerning his honour and service, and the furtherance of the Gospel, which is the duty most beseeming royal authority. Wherefore after our entry into this kingdom, when we had received information of the state thereof at the decease of the queen our sister of famous memory, Although we found the whole Body thereof in general by the wisdom of herself and care of those who had the administration therof under her, in such good state of health as did greatly commend their wisedoms, as well in the politic part of it, as also in the ecclesiastical, whereof since we haue vnerstood the form and frame, wee are persuaded that both the constitution and doctrine thereof is agreeable to Gods word, and near to the condition of the primitive Church: Yet forasmuch as experience doth show daily, that the Church militant is never so well constituted in any form of policy, but that the imperfections of men who haue the exercise thereof, do with time, though vnsensibly, bring in some corruptions: As also for that informations were daily brought unto us by diuers, that some things used in this Church were both scandalous to many seeming zealous, and gave advantage to the aduersaries, We conceived that no subject could be so fit for us to show our thankfulness to God, as vpon serious examination of the state of this Church, to redeem it from such scandals, as both by the one side and the other were laid vpon it. For our instruction wherein, we appointed a meeting to be had before ourself and our counsel, of diuers of the Bishops and other learned men, the first day of the next month, by whose information and advice we might govern our proceeding therein, if we found cause of amendment. But by reason of the sickness reigning in many places of our kingdom, the unseasonable time of the year for travail, and the incommodity of the place of our abode for such an assembly, we were constrained to defer it till after Christmas: At which Consultation we shall both more particularly understand the state of the Church, and receive thereby light to judge whether there be indeed any such enormities as are pretended, and know how to proceed to the redress. But this our godly purpose we find hath been misconstrued by some mens spirits, whose heat tendeth rather to combustion then reformation, as appeareth by the cour●●● they haue taken, Some using public invectives against the state ecclesiastical here established, some contemning their authority and the Processes of their Courts, some gathering subscriptions of multitudes of vulgar persons to Supplications to be exhibited to us to crave that Reformation, which if there be cause to make, is more in our heart then in theirs. All which courses it is apparent to all men are unlawful and do savour of tumult, sedition, and violence, and not of such a Christian modesty as beseemeth those, who for pieties sake onely desire redress of things they think to be amiss, and cannot but be the occasions of dissentious partialities, and perhaps of greater inconveniences among our people. For preventing whereof, We haue thought it necessary to make public declaration to all our Subiects, that as we haue reason to think the estate of the Church here established, and the degrees and orders of Ministers governing the same, to be agreeable to the word of God, and the form of the primitive Church, having found the same blessed in the reign of the late queen, with great increase of the Gospel, and with a most happy& long peace in the politic State, which two things, the true service of God, and happiness of the State do commonly concur together: So are wee not ignorant, that time may haue brought in some corruptions, which may deserve a review and amendment, which if by the assembly intended by us we shall find to be so in dead, we will therein proceed according to the laws and customs of this realm by aduise of our council, or in our high Court of Parliament, or by convocation of our clergy, as we shall find reason to lead us; not doubting but that in such an orderly proceeding, we shall haue the Prelates and others of our clergy no less willing, and far more able to afford us their duty and service, then any other whose zeal goeth so fast before their discretion. Vpon which our Princely care, our pleasure is, that all our Subiects do repose themselves, and leave to our conscience that which to us onely appertaineth, avoiding all unlawful and factious maner of proceeding, for that hereafter if any shall either by gathering the subscriptions of multitudes to Supplications, by contemptuous behaviour of any authority by the laws resting in ecclesiastical persons, by open invectives and undecent speeches either in the Pulpit or otherwise, or by disobedience to the processes proceeding from their jurisdiction, give us cause to think that he hath a more unquiet spirit then becometh any private person to haue toward public authority, We will make it appear by their chastisement, how far such a maner of proceeding is displeasing to us, and that we find that these Reformers under pretended zeal affect novelty, and so confusion in all estates, whereas our purpose and resolution ever was, and now is to preserve the estate as well ecclesiastical as politic, in such form as wee haue found it established by the laws here, reforming onely the abuses which wee shall apparently find proved, And that also to do by such mature aduise and deliberation, as we haue above mentioned. Wherefore we admonish all men hereby to take warning, as they will answer the contrary at their peril. given under our hand at Wilton the 24. day of October, of our reign of England France and Ireland the first, and of Scotland the thirtieth and seventh year. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation against the unlawful conveying of goods between the two realms of England and Scotland. WHereas wee are given to understand, that since our entry into this kingdom, many of our Subiects of our realm of Scotland, and some also of England ( who by ancient laws and customs of this realm are bound to bring all such goods and merchandises as pass between the two realms, either to the city of carlisle, or town of berwick( if the same be carried by land) or else to ship the same at some port, whereby our customs and dueties may be justly answered to us, do not observe our laws, but to the intent to defraud us of our said customs, do go with their goods and merchandises over the fells, and other by-passages, whereby great damage hath been done to us, and more is like to be, if the same bee not prevented: We haue therfore thought convenient hereby straitly to charge and command all our Subiects, as well of the one realm, as of the other, That none of them presume hereafter to pass any goods from each realm to other, but either shipped at some known Port, or else through our said city of carlisle or town of berwick, under pain of confiscation of all goods that shall be seized passing any other way. And we hereby straitly enjoin all Lieutenants, Deputy-Lieutenants, Iustices of Peace, Maiors, Sheriffes, bailiffs, Constables, Customers, controllers, Searchers, and all other our Officers, ministers, and loving subiects whatsoever, to haue a special care and watch to the observation of this our pleasure, and to bee aiding and assisting to any that shall give them information of the passing of goods by indirect ways, and to seize or cause the same to be seized to our use, as they will answer the contrary at their uttermost peril. given under our hand at Wilton, the fourth day of november, in the first year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and the 37. of Scotland. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation for Transplantation of the Greames. FOrasmuch as all our Subiects in the North parts, who haue felt the smart of the spoils and outrages done vpon them at our first entry into this kingdom by diuers Borderers, but specially by the Greames, cannot bee ignorant what care we haue had that punishment should be done vpon the offenders, having for that purpose to our great charge, maintained both Forces to apprehended them, and Commissioners to try them according to the Law, by whose travell, namely of our cousin the earl of Cumberland our Lieutenant there, with assistance of other Commissioners, things are brought to that point, that the Offenders are all in our mercy, and do all( but specially the Greames) confess themselves to be no meet persons to live in those Countreys, And therefore haue humbly besought us that they might be removed to some other parts, where with our gracious favour, they hope to live to become new men, and deserve our mercy. Although we do confess that we haue rather inclined to this course of mercy, as a thing more agreeable to our Nature, then the taking of so much blood as would be shed if wee should leave them to the just censure of the Law: nevertheless, lest our good Subiects seeing no such execution presently follow of our said Commission, should make other construction thereof, then is cause; We haue thought good to make known to them, that this course for the present proceedeth from no alteration of our former detestation of such injury, or want of care and affection to our good Subiects, oppressed by such heinous offenders; but onely for lack of means to provide presently for the Transplantation of these Greames elsewhere, to the intent their lands may be inhabited by others of good and honest conversation. We haue thought it not amiss for better effecting hereof, and for ease of the prisons, to dismiss the vulgar sort of them, retaining their heads and principals for pledges, not onely to be answerable for their foorthcomming when they shall be called for, but for their good behaviour also in the mean season. Of all which our resolution, we require all persons to take notice, and to comfort themselves with full assurance, that they shall find the effects at all times of our promises in all things tending to the weal of our people. given at Wilton, the 4. day of December, in the first year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and of Scotland the seven and thirtieth. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation concerning the choice of Knights and Burgesses for the Parliament. WE haue( before this time) made known to our Subiects vpon diuers occasions, that we haue received so great contentment in their general conformity and submission to all such courses, as might best establish the possession of this crown, according to the right of our Succession, as it would ever nourish in us an earnest desire to show ourselves careful in all things, to preserve their greatest affection, and to answer that expectation, which( by their joyful maner of receiving us) Wee perceived they had conceived of our government: Whereof, as we well know, that Princes cannot yield, more general, more clear, or profitable proof to their people, then by redressing abuses, wherewith they find their Subiects justly grieved, either in constitution, or administration of their laws in being, or by seeking to establish new laws for them, agreeable to the rules of Iustice, whensoever time doth discover any defects in the former Policy, or when accidents in the State of any Common wealth require new ordinances: So seeing both these things( which are of so great moment in a State) haue accustomend to be considered and ordered( as in this, so in other well governed Common wealths) by a lawful assembly of the three Estates of the realm, commonly called The Parliament; Wee were desirous to haue summoned them long since for that purpose, if the Infection( reigning in the City of London, and other places of our kingdom) would haue permitted the concourse of so great a multitude into one place, as that Assembly must necessary bring with it. Which great contagion being now by the goodness of God abated, and likely( as we hope) to be shortly quiter extinguished in and about the said City, we haue resolved to hold a Parliament at our City of Westminster, as soon as we shall find, that the same may be done without the peril aforesaid. In which, as God doth know, that we haue nothing to propound for satisfaction of any private desire, or particular profit of our own, but merely and onely to consult and resolve with our loving Subiects of all those things, which may best establish the public good, with the general safety and tranquillity of this realm:( on which it hath pleased God to multiply so many blessings) so to the intent that this assembly of our Parliament( being grounded vpon so sincere an intent on our part) may be matched with a like integrity on theirs, And as it is the first in our reign, so to be found not onely worthy of the high Title it beareth, to be the highest counsel of the kingdom, but also to be a president for hereafter of the true use of Parliaments, We haue bethought ourself, of as many ways and means, as may be, to prevent those inconveniences, which daily arise and multiply by the perverting of those ancient good orders, which were devised by the wisdom of former times to bee observed in calling of Parliaments. Amongst which, because there is no one point of greater consequence, then the well choosing of Knights and Burgesses, who as they do present the body of the third estate, so being eligible by multitude there are often many unfit persons appointed for that service: And where it is so well known to every private man of wit and iudgement( much more to us who haue had so long experience of Kingly government) how ill effects do follow, when such as haue to do in matters of Common wealth, shall come to that great& common council, with other then public minds, sincere, and void of any factious humour or dependency: We do hereby straitly charge and admonish all persons interested in the choice of Knights for the Shires, First, that the Knights for the County be selected out of the principal knights or Gentlemen of sufficient ability within that County wherein they are chosen: And for the Burgesses, that choice be made of men of sufficiency and discretion without any partial respects, or factious combination, which always breed suspicions, that more care is taken to compass private ends, then to provide for making good and wholesome laws for the realm. And because it is no more possible to draw sound Counsels and resolutions from inconsiderate or insufficient spirits, then to haue a sound or healthful body composed of weak and imperfect members: We do likewise admonish all persons to whom it doth appertain, That seeing the dealing in causes of Parliament, requires conveniency of yeeres and experience, there may be great heed taken by all those that will be accounted louers of their country, That both Knights and Burgesses may be chosen accordingly, without desire in any particular men to please parents or friends, that often speak for their children or kin, though they be very young, and little able to discern what laws are fit to bind a Common-wealth, To the consultation whereof those persons would be selected principally, of whose gravity and modest conversation men are likest generally to conceive best opinion. Next and above all things, concerning that one of the main pillars of this Estate, is the preservation of unity in the profession of sincere Religion of Almighty God: We do also admonish, that there be great care taken, to avoid the choice of any persons either noted for their superstitious blindness one way, or for their turbulent humors other ways: because their disorderly and unquiet spirits, will disturb all the discreet and modest proceeding in that greatest and gravest council. Further we do command, that an express care be had, that there be not chosen any persons Banquerupts or Outlawed, but men of known good behaviour and sufficient livelihood, and such as are not onely taxed to the payment of Subsidies and other like charges, but also haue ordinarily payed and satisfied the same, Nothing being more absurd in any Common wealth, then to permit those to haue free voices for Law making, by whose own acts they are exempted from the laws protection. Next, that all sheriffs be charged that they do not direct any Precept for electing and returning of any Burgesses to or for any ancient Borough town within their Counties, being so utterly ruined and decayed, that there are not sufficient Resiants to make such choice, and of whom lawful election may be made, Also to charge all Cities and boroughs, and the inhabitants of the same, that none of them seal any blanks, referring or leaving to any others to insert the names of any Citizens or Burgesses, to serve for any such City or Borough, but that the inhabitants of every such City or Borough, do make open and free Election according to the Law, and set down the names of the persons whom they choose, before they seal the Certificate. Furthermore we notify by these presents, that all returns and certificates of Knights, Citizens and Burgesses, ought and are to be brought to the Chancery, and there to be filled of Record. And if any shall be found to be made contrary to this Proclamation, the same is to be rejected as unlawful and insufficient, and the City or Borough to be fined for the same. And if it be found that they haue committed any gross or wilful default and contempt in their Election, return, or Certificate, That then their Liberties according to the Law, are to be seized into our hands, as forfeited. And if any person take vpon him the place of a knight, citizen, or burgess, not being duly elected, returned, and sworn according to the laws and statutes in that behalf provided, and according to the purport, effect and true meaning of this our Proclamation, Then every person so offending to be fined and imprisoned for the same. We do also hereby give warning to the Lords and others that are to serve in this Parliament, to haue special care,( as they tender our displeasure) That they admit none to haue the name or countenance of their seruants and attendants, during the Parliament, seeing such questions of privilege haue in times past consumed a great part of the time appointed for the Parliament, whereby the service for the realm hath been hindered, and the Subiects drawn to great charges and expenses, by attending much longer then otherwise needed. Hau ng at this time been the more careful to set down a particular Order and forewarning for preventing of these several abuses afore mentioned, that thereby there may arise at that public and solemn meeting, such a comely proportion and laudable sympathy between the honourable, just, and necessary laws that are to be made and established at this Parliament, and the commendable discretion, with all other wise and virtuous qualities meet for such persons as are to be the members and assisters of us, in so honourable, lawful, and necessary an Action, as may both put us, and all our good Subiects in a sure expectation of a happy issue to follow thereupon: We doubt not but these our directions thus made manifest, shal be duly observed, according to the important consequence thereof, and the peril of our heavy displeasure to all those that shall offend in the contrary. given at our honour of Hampton Court, the 11. day of january, in the first year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and of Scotland the seven and thirtieth. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation, commanding all jesuits, Seminaries and other Priests, to depart the realm by a day appointed. having after some time spent in settling the politic affairs of this realm, of late bestowed no small labour in composing certain differences wee found among our clergy about Rites and ceremonies heretofore established in this Church of England, and reduced the same to such an order and form, as we doubt not but every spirit that is lead onely with piety, and not with humour, shal be therein satisfied: It appeared unto us in the debating of those matters, that a greater contagion to our Religion, then could proceed from those light differences, was imminent by persons common enemies to them both, Namely, the great number of Priests both Seminaries and jesuits abounding in this realm, as well of such as were here before our coming to this crown, as of such as haue resorted hither since, using their functions and professions with greater liberty, then heretofore they durst haue done, partly vpon a vain confidence of some innovation in matters of Religion to be done by us, which we never intended, nor gave any man cause to expect, and partly vpon the assurance of our general Pardon, granted according to the custom of our progenitors at our Coronation, for offences past in the dayes of the late queen, which Pardons many of the said Priestes haue procured under our great seal, and holding themselves thereby free from the danger of the laws, do with great audacity exercise all Offices of their profession, both saying Masses, persuading our Subiects from the Religion established, and reconciling them to the Church of Rome, and by consequence seducing them from the true persuasion, which all Subiects ought to haue of their duty and obedience to vs. Wherefore, forasmuch as by way of providence to preserve their people from being corrupted in Religion, piety and obedience, is not the least part of royal duty, we hold ourself obliged both in conscience and in wisdom, to use all good means to keep our Subiects from being infected with superstitious opinions in matter of Religion, which are not onely pernicious to their own souls, but the ready way and means to corrupt their duty and allegiance, which cannot be any way so surely performed, as by keeping from them the ministers and instruments of that infection, which are the Priests of all sorts ordained in foreign parts, by authority prohibited by the laws of this land, Concerning whom therefore we haue thought it fit to publish to all our Subiects this open declaration of our pleasure. That where there be of Priests at this present within our kingdom, be they Regular or without Rule, diuers sorts, some in prison, some at liberty, and of both, some having obtained our pardon under our great seal, and some having no such pardon: And again some that were here before our coming into this realm, and some commen hither since: For all such as are in prison we haue taken order that they shalbe shipped at some convenient port, and sent out of our realm as soon as possibly may be, with commandement not to return again into any part of our dominions, without our Licence obtained, vpon pain and peril of the laws being here in force against them, And for all others who are at liberty, whether having sued out our Pardon or not, which we do advertise them and all our Subiects, that extending onely to matters done before the death of the late queen, doth not exempt any Priest from the danger of the Law for his abode here since our succession to the crown above the time by the Statute limited. We do hereby will and command all maner of jesuits, Seminaries, and other Priests whatsoever, having Ordination from any authority by the laws of this realm prohibited, to take notice That our pleasure is, that they do before the nineteenth day of March next ensuing the date hereof, depart forth of our realm and dominions, And that for that purpose it shalbe lawful to all Officers of our Ports, to suffer the said Priestes to depart from thence into any foreign parts, between this and the said nineteenth day of March: Admonishing and assuring all such jesuits, Seminaries, and Priests of what sort soever, That if any of them shalbe after the said nineteenth day taken within this realm or any our dominions, or departing now vpon this our pleasure signified, shall hereafter return into this realm or any our dominions again, that they shalbe left to the penalty of the laws here being in force concerning them, without hope of any favour or remission from vs. Wherefore we will and command all Archbishops, Bishops, Lieutenants, Iustices of Peace, and all other our Officers and ministers whatsoever, to be vigilant and careful after the said nineteenth day of March past, to do their dueties and diligence in discovering and apprehending of all Priests that shall remain here contrary to this our declaration. Which though perhaps it may seem to some to presage a greater severity towards that sort of our Subiects, who differing in their profession from the Religion by Law established, call themselves catholics, then by our proceedings with them hitherto we haue given cause to expect: Yet doubt we not, but that when it shalbe considered with indifferent iudgement, what causes haue moved us to use this providence against the said jesuits, Seminaries, and Priests, all men will justify us therein. For to whom is it unknown, into what peril our person was like to be drawn, and our realm unto confusion not many moneths since, by a conspiracy first conceived by persons of that sort, who having prevailed with some, had undertaken to draw multitudes of others to assist the same, by the authority of their persuasions and motives grounded chiefly vpon matter of conscience and Religion? Which when other Princes shall duly observe, we assure ourselves they will no way conceive that this alteration groweth from any change of disposition now more exasperate then heretofore, but out of necessary providence to prevent perils otherwise inevitable, considering that their absolute submission to foreign jurisdiction at their first taking of Orders, doth leave so conditional an authority to Kings over their Subiects, as the same power by which they were made, may dispense at pleasure with the straightest band of loyalty and love between a King and his people. Amongst which foreign powers, although we aclowledge ourselves personally so much beholding to the now Bishop of Rome for his kind Offices and private temporal carriage towards us in many things, as we shall bee ever ready to requited the same towards him,( as Bishop of Rome in state and condition of a Secular Prince) Yet when we consider and observe the course and claim of that Sea, we haue no reason to imagine, that Princes of our Religion and profession, can expect any assurance long to continue, unless it might be assented by mediation of other Princes Christian, that some good course might be taken( by a general council free and lawfully called) to pluck up those roots of dangers and jealousies which arise for cause of Religion as well between Princes and Princes, as between them and their Subiects, and to make it manifest that no State or Potentate either hath or can challenge power to dispose of earthly kingdoms or Monarchies, or to dispense with Subiects obedience to their natural Soueraignes: In which charitable Action, there is no Prince living, that will be readier then we shall be to concur even to the uttermost of our power, not onely out of particular disposition to live peaceably with all States and Princes of christendom, but because such a settled amity might( by an union in Religion) be established among Christian Princes, as might enable us all to resist the common enemy. given at our palace of Westminster the xxij. day of February, in in the first year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and of Scotland the seven and thirtieth. Anno Dom. 1603. ¶ A Proclamation for the Authorizing and uniformity of the book of Common Prayer to be used throughout the realm. ALthough it cannot be unknown to our Subiects by the former Declarations wee haue published, what our purposes and proceedings haue been in matters of Religion since our coming to this crown: Yet the same being now by us reduced to a settled form, we haue occasion to repeat somewhat of that which hath passed; And how at our very first entry into the realm being entertained and importuned with informations of sundry Ministers, complaining of the errors and imperfections of the Church here, as well in matter of Doctrine as of Discipline; Although we had no reason to presume that things were so far amiss, as was pretended, because we had seen the kingdom under that form of Religion which by Law was established in the dayes of the late queen of famous memory, blessed with a peace and prosperity, both extraordinary and of many yeeres continuance( a strong evidence that God was therewith well pleased,) Yet because the importunity of the Complayners was great, their affirmations vehement, and the zeal wherewith the same did seem to be accompanied, very specious; Wee were moved thereby to make it our occasion to discharge that duty which is the chiefest of all Kingly dueties, That is, to settle the affairs of Religion,& the service of God before their own. Which while wee were in hand to do, as the Contagion of the sickness reigning in our City of London and other places would permit an assembly of persons meet for that purpose; Some of those who misliked the state of Religion here established, prefuming more of our intents then ever wee gave them cause to do, and transported with humour, began such proceedings as did rather raise a scandal in the Church, then take offence away. For both they used forms of public serving of God not here allowed, held assemblies without Authority,& did other things carrying a very apparent show of sedition, more then of zeal: whom we restrained by a former Proclamation in the month of October last, and gave intimation of the Conference we intended to be had with as much speed as conveniently could be, for the ordering of those things of the Church, which accordingly followed in the month of january last at our Honour of Hampton Court, where before ourself, and our privy counsel were assembled many of the gravest Bishops and prelates of the realm, and many other learned men, as well of those that are conformable to the State of the Church established, as of those that dissented: Among whom, what our pains were, what our patience in hearing and replying, and what the indifferency and uprightness of our Iudgment in determining, we leave to the report of those who heard the same, contenting ourself with the sincerity of our own heart therein. But we cannot conceal, that the success of that Conference was such as happeneth to many other things, which moving great expectation before they be entred into, in their issue produce small effects. For we found mighty and vehement Informations supported with so weak and slender proofs, as it appeared unto us and our council, that there was no cause why any change should haue been at all in that which was most impugned, the book of Common Prayer, containing the form of the public service of God here established, neither in the doctrine which appeared to be sincere, nor in the forms and Rites which were justified out of the practise of the primitive Church. Notwithstanding we thought meet, with consent of the Bishops and other learned men there present, That some small things might rather be explained then changed; not that the same might not very well haue been born with by men who would haue made a reasonable construction of them: but for that in a matter concerning the service of God we were nice, or rather jealous, that the public form thereof should be free not onely from blame, but from suspicion, so as neither the common adversary should haue advantage to wrest ought therein contained, to other sense then the Church of England intendeth, nor any troublesone or ignorant person of this Church be able to take the least occasion of cavil against it: And for that purpose gave forth, our Commission under our great seal of England to the Archbishop of Canterbury and others, according to the form which the laws of this realm in like case prescribe to be used, to make the said explanation, and to cause the whole book of Common Prayer, with the same explanations, to be newly printed. Which being now done, and established anew after so serious a deliberation; Although we doubt not, but all our Subiects, both Ministers and others will receive the same with such reverence as appertaineth, and conform themselves thereunto every man in that which him concerneth: Yet haue we thought it necessary, to make known by Proclamation our authorizing of the same, And to require and enjoin all men, aswell ecclesiastical as temporal, to conform themselves unto it, and to the practise thereof, as the onely public form of serving of God, established and allowed to be in this realm. And the rather, for that all the learned men, who were there present, aswell of the Bishops as others, promised their conformity in the practise of it, onely making suit to us, that some few might be born with for a time. Wherefore we require all Archbishops, Bishops, and all other public Ministers as well ecclesiastical as civil, to do their dueties in causing the same to be obeied, and in punishing the offenders according to the laws of the realm heretofore established, for the authorizing of the said book of Common Prayer. And we think it also necessary, that the said Archbishops, and Bishops, do each of them in his province and diocese take order, That every Parish do procure to themselves within such time as they shall think good to limit, one of the said books so explained. And last of all we do admonish all men, that hereafter they shall not expect nor attempt any further alteration in the Common& public form of Gods service, from this which is now established, for that neither will wee give way to any to presume, that our own iudgement having determined in a matter of this weight, shalbe swayed to alteration by the frivolous suggestions of any light spirit: neither are we ignorant of the inconveniences that do arise in government, by admitting innovation in things once settled by mature deliberation: And how necessary it is to use constancy in the upholding of the public determinations of States, for that such is the unquietness and vnstedfastnesse of some dispositions, affecting every year new forms of things, as, if they should be followed in their unconstancy, would make all actions of States ridiculous and contemptible: whereas the steadfast maintaining of things by good aduise established, is the weal of all Common wealths. given at our palace of Westminster the fifth day of March, in the first year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and of Scotland the seven and thirtieth. Anno Dom. 1603, ¶ Orders for thorough Posts, and Curriers, riding in Post in our affairs. THe Lords of the privy counsel endeavouring heretofore the like furtherance of the service of the State, as well in horsing such as ride on their Princes affairs, as the speedy dispatch of Packets in all places, where Posts were erected and ordained, considering, that for the service of the one, a daily fee is allowed, and for the other no certain wages at all, but the hire of the horses let out, and that often ill paid, whereby they stand not so bound to the one, as to attend the other: And that the towns and Countreys besides became many ways vexed and perplexed, by the over great liberty of Riders in post, specially by such as pretend public service by special Commission, contrary to the Kings meaning or their Lordships Orders: Who minding nothing more, then the particular good of his seruants and Subiects: for the benefit of the one, relief of the other, and more regard to the good usage of all Owners of horses, and the beasts themselves, did think it expedient, to digest and set down sundry necessary Orders indifferent for all parties to observe and follow. Which Orders being by us reviewed and considered, are now according to the necessity of the times, thought meet to be eftsoons allowed and published. The execution whereof we seriously recommending to the Master and Controller of all our Posts, for the better warranting and directing of Posts, so far as this service may concern them, Wee do hereby straightly charge and command, all and every Lieutenants of Shires, deputy Lieutenants, Iustices of all assizes and peace, Sheriffes, Maiors, bailiffs, Constables, Headboroughs, and all other his Officers, Ministers, and loving Subiects, to be aiding and assisting to the same, with their utmost help, authority and countenance where need shall require, as they tender the furtherance of the service of the State, and our displeasure. 1 First it is ordered, That in all places where Posts are laid for the Packet, they also as persons most fit, shall haue the benefit and pre-eminence of letting, furnishing, and appointing of horses to all riding in post,( that is to say) with horn and Guide by Commission or otherwise, And to that end shall keep, and entertain of their own, or haue in a readiness under their direction, such and so many able and sufficient Post horses, with convenient furniture, as their own abilities will bear, or that the contributory provision of the towns and Countreys shal enable them unto, or afford. And if it fall out that Curriers or thorow-Posts, riding in our affairs by special Commission come so thick, or in such numbers, that their ordinary provision will not suffice, then the Constables of the places where they dwell, with the assistance of the chief Magistrates there, and of the Countreys adjoining,( being required in our name) shall take up, bring in, and supply the Posts with horses where they may be had or hired. 2 And like as in the Orders for the carrying of the Packets, the furtherance of our service and the State, is onely aimed at, so in this it is intended, that none be holden to ride on public affairs, but with special Commission, and the same signed either by one of our principal Secretaries of State, or six at the least of our privy counsel, or the Master and controller general of the Posts, for all journeys outwards, and from the Court onely. And to the Court, the Lords of the privy counsel of Scotland, any Lieutenant, deputy or Gouernours in Ireland, the Presidents of Counsels, or Vicepresidents established in the North, or in the Marches of Wales, the governor of berwick, Any ambassador, Gouernours of towns, or Agents beyond the Seas, The Warden of the Cinque Ports, or his Lieutenant of dover, specially sending to the Court, to the body of the Counsel, or Secretaries of State, or any Packet so directed, that it may appear, the party dispatched therewith, rideth in our special affairs,( the Ambassadors of foreign Princes within this our realm, and the ordinary Posts for France and Flanders allowed, and by their badges sufficiently commissionated, excepted) and of all such so riding in public affairs, it shall be lawful for the Posts, or the Owners of the horses, to demand for the hire of each horse after the rate of two pence halfpenny the mile,( besides the Guides groats.) But of all others riding post with horn and Guide, about their private businesses, the hire and prices are left to the parties discretions to agree and compound within themselves. 3 It shal not be lawful for any person whatsoever riding in post by Commission or otherwise, to take and ride away the horse or horses of any man, Post or other, not having first and aforehand fully paid and satisfied for the price and hire unto the Owners or the Post for them, nor ride them further then the next immediate Stage without changing, without the knowledge and consent of the Post of the Stage, by whom he rideth in post, nor charge any horse so taken to ride in post with any Male, or burden,( besides his Rider) that exceedeth the weight of thirty pounds: Neither shall any man so riding in post, offer to ride any mans horse above seven miles the hour in Summer, viz. From the first of April, till the last of September, nor above six in Winter, which shall bee accounted the rest of the year: And if any shall wilfully disobey herein or in any point hereof to the manifest hurt or hindrance of the horse or his Owner, The Officers& Magistrates of the place vpon complaint made, shall stay the parties offending until they haue given present satisfaction, or sufficient security to repay the damage. 4 Finally, as it is onely intended that our service in this kind, be at all hands furthered, and the Posts to that end, in all their wants and wrongs to right themselves by the help and authority of the Magistrates, towns and Countreys as abovesaid: So if the service shall seem unto any Post a burden over great for his private state to bear and undertake, and the towns and Countreys( notwithstanding the ease and quiet they reap thereby) no way willing to countenance, encourage or enable him thereto: or otherwise in regard of yeeres or indisposition, shall not see reason to vnderlie the charge, and trouble of the service, as being a hindrance to his special duty in the service of the Packet: The Post in such case attending his peculiar charge, the Constables, and Magistrates of the places shall take order from time to time, that horses be provided for all riding in post by Commission, or specially sent in our affairs as beforesaid, in such sort as they were subject to do before there were any Posts there, and as in places where are yet no standing posts at all. unto whom also our pleasure is, that these Orders shall bee in force, and available( being delivered them from the Master and controller of the Posts) so far as they, and any branch of them may concern the furtherance of public service, or their own relief. ¶ Orders for the Posts of our realms, and for all men to observe and obey in the speedy carriage of Packets, directed for our affairs. WHereas heretofore the Lords of the privy counsel to the queen our Sister deceased, for great and weighty causes concerning the State, haue endeavoured to set down, and publish sundry Orders, and general directions for matters of Posting, especially for the speedy dispatch of Packets and Letters importing the Princes immediate affairs, the colour whereof serving private turns, hath greatly frustrated their endeavours: It is now therefore, for the better warrantise and direction of our Posts, thought meet and convenient, that the former Orders be revived, and( according to the necessity of the times) renewed and published in our name in maner as followeth. 1. First, every Post receiving a daily Fee, and entertained specially for the Packet, according to the proportion of his wages by the day, shall keep certain Horses, to the number of two at the least, with furniture convenient, and those always to haue at hand in a readiness to run with our Packets onely in Post, so soon as the same are brought to his hands. He shall haue also two Bags of Leather at the least well lined with bays or Cotton, to carry the Packet in, and horns to sound and blow, as oft as he meets company, or four times in every mile. 2. every Post thus furnished, shall at all houres receive and carry, or sand away, all Packets or Letters brought unto him, directed for our special affairs, dated on the outside, with the time and place of their first delivery, and subscribed by the hands of our principal Secretaries, and Master and controller general of the posts: And for matters of the navy, or to the Maritime Forts vpon the Sea cost, or principal Port towns, by our admiral of England: For matters of the Cinque Ports, by our Warden: For matters of Scotland, by our Treasurer and Secretary of Scotland: And for Ireland, by our Lieutenant the L. MoHntioy, Or addressed to them in the proper business of their places, or to the body of our counsel, from what persons or places whatsoever: Of whose names, and address onely, the Posts shall take notice, according to the first institution, and original use of their service, and of none other. 3. every Post so receiving our Packets, directed and subscribed as abovesaid, shall within one quarter of an hour at the most after they come to his hands, dispatch them away in Post, and shall run therewith in summer( that is, from the first of April to the last of September) after seven miles the hour: and in Winter( which shall be esteemed the rest of the year) after five miles the hour at the least, as the ways afford, and the weather fall out. 4. And that it may appear from time to time( when, and as often as it shalbe required) with what care and diligence the service is at al hands applied and performed, every Post shall keep a large and faire leger Paper book to enter our Packets in, as they shalbe brought unto him, with the day of the month, hour of the day or night, that they came first to his hands, together with the name of him or them, by whom or unto whom they were subscribed and directed, taking and entering onely such for our Packets, as come warranted as aforesaid, and all others to pass as By-letters. 5. Lastly, to the end that the Posts generally may the better attend their several services, and perform their dueties in that behalf, Our pleasure is, that they and every of them shall brook and enjoy the benefit of all former favours allowed them, namely, That they and their seruants be holden free and exempted from all Prests and attendances at assizes, Sessions, Inquests, and Musters. Signed by his majesty, and subscribed by Sir John Stanhop knight, Master and controller general of his Highnesse posts. Anno Dom. 1603. ANNO SECVNDO jacobi REGIS. ¶ A Proclamation for the true winding or folding of Wools. WHereas in the Parliament holden in the seven and twentieth year of the reign of our most noble Progenitor Edward the third late King of England, It is enacted, and ordained amongst other things, That all Woolpackers, and Winders of wools should be sworn, and take a corporal oath before the Maior of the Staple for the time being, truly and justly to wind and pack all the Wools within the realm; By force of which Statute the fellowship of Wool-winders, otherwise called Woolmen, are bound justly and truly to wind and pack all such wools, as they meddle with throughout the realm, to the public good and commodity of the whole realm, By force of which Statute, and by the good Ordinances made by the said fellowship, the said wools haue been ever since justly and truly wound and packed, until now of late diuers and many persons( contrary to the same Statute) taking vpon them to be Woolwinders in many places of this realm, neither being sworn, nor expert in winding& folding of wools, of which some be glovers, Tailers, weavers, Cordwainers, Barbers, Husbandmen, and other Artifiters, haue gone about, and daily do go about throughout this realm in many places, practising themselves in winding and folding of the said wools, by the procurement and means of the Owners, and Breeders of the said wools, and do wind up, and deceitfully put into the said Fleeces of wool, sand, stones, dust, pitch, tar, day, iron, led, double marks, shorlocks, dung, lambs wool, clockets, locks, hindershankes, tails, washlocks, cummer, and many other deceivable things, not onely to the great slander of this realm, but to the great loss and prejudice of his majesties subiects, using the craft and feat of Clothmaking within this realm, and to the great abuse and deceit of Merchants, and others, buyers of the same. For reformation and redress whereof, The Kings most excellent majesty, by the advice of his privy counsel, straitly chargeth and commandeth, That no manner of person or persons, whatsoever he or they be, at any time hereafter go about, or take vpon him or them to wind or fold any manner of Wools in any country where wools are accustomend to be wrought, had or used, or in the Counties of Northampton, lincoln, Leicester, or Rutland, for any Merchant of the Staple, Clothier or buyers, before he or they shall be admitted and allowed, by the Master and Wardens of the Company and fellowship of the Woolmen of the city of London, or one of them for the time being, to the intent that he and they shalbe expert, and haue knowledge in the said craft or mystery, for the true winding and folding of wools. And that every person and persons so allowed and admitted for an able and lawful workman, or workmen in form aforesaid, shall haue a testimonial or Certificate of his allowance and admittance, under the seal of the Maior of the Staple at Westminster for the time being; And that none of the said persons so allowed and admitted, or that shalbe so allowed and admitted, shal go about, or take vpon him or them, to wind or fold any wools before he or they haue taken a corporal oath before the said Maior for the time being, That he or they shall truly and justly without deceit, wind, or fold all and singular such wool, or Wools, as he or they shall take vpon him or them to wind or fold, and shall not commit, use, or practise any deceit or guile therein, vpon pain that every person which shall take vpon him to wind or fold any maner of Wools being not admitted and sworn, as is aforesaid, or which shall commit, use, or practise any deceit or guile therein against this our Proclamation, or against any the laws and statutes, in that behalf made and provided, shall suffer imprisonment ten dayes, and to be set vpon the pillory in the next Market town, with a fleece of wool hanging about his neck, according to the tenor of a Proclamation heretofore set forth in the fifth year of the reign of our late deceased brother of famous memory King Edward the sixth, And of one other Proclamation set out by our late sister Elizabeth the queens majesty deceased, bearing date the tenth day of August in the fourth year of her reign. And his majesty further straitly chargeth and commandeth that no Grower, Breeder, Brogger or gatherer of any Wools in any his Highnesse Counties where Wools are accustomend to be wrought by sworn men, or in the said Counties of Northampton, lincoln, Leicester, and Rutland, shall at any time hereafter set on work any Woolfolder, or Woolwinder, to fold or wind his or their wool or Wools, unless the said Woolfolder, or Woolwinder bring with him or them a testimonial, or certificat, under the seal of the said Maior of the Staple at Westminster for the time being: Testifying him or them to be sworn and admitted for an able workman to fold and wind wools in maner and form as is aforesaid, vpon like pain as is above expressed. And further where by an Act made in the 23. year of the reign of our most noble predecessor King Henry the eight of famous memory yet standing in force, It was enacted that no maner of person do wind or cause to be wound any fleece of wool, not being sufficiently Riuered or washed, ne wind, or cause to bee wound within any Fleece any deceivable things particularly mentioned in the same Act, or any other thing, whereby the fleece may be the more weightier, to the deceit and loss of the Buyer, vpon pain the Seller of any such deceitful Wools, to forfeit for every such Fleece six pence; His majesty hath been certainly informed, That notwithstanding the said good Act and Statute, much deceit is used in washing, winding, folding and packing of wools, and that for the most part of vnskilfull persons, contrary to the said Act and Statute: His highnesse therefore minding to haue the said clauses of the said Statute, and all Acts and Statutes touching or in any wise concerning the avoiding of the said deceits, or made, and provided for the true and lawful winding, folding, and packing of the said wools, by expert and skilful persons, shalbe from henceforth duly observed, and put in execution, and the offenders against the same, to be corrected and punished according to the effect and true meaning thereof, doth straitly charge and command all and every his Subiects whatsoever, to whom it shall and may appertain, To observe the true meaning of the said Acts, vpon pain of forfeiture of the penalties therein contained, and as they will avoid his highnesse further displeasure. And further his majesty by the advice aforesaid, straitly chargeth and commandeth all and every Iustices of peace, Maiors, Sheriffes, bailiffs, and all other his highnes Officers and Ministers whatsoever, to whom it may appertain within their several Liberties, and precints, That they and every of them cause every such Offender and Offenders, to bee punished for every such offence and offences above mentioned, in such sort as is above limited, appoynted and declared. And that every and whatsoever Iustice of Peace, Maior, sheriff, bailiff, or other Officer, do refuse, or do not punish, or cause to bee punished every such person or persons, so to him or them presented, according to this present Ordinance, his or their faults being duly proved, shall forfeit to the Kings majesty twenty pounds to be paid into his Highnesse Court of Exchequer; And further shall incur his Highnesse displeasure. given at our Mannour of East-Greenwich the 18. day of june, in the second year of our reign of England, France& Ireland, and of Scotland the seven and thirtieth. Anno Dom. 1604. ¶ A Proclamation forbidding Londoners to resort to bristol Faire. FOrasmuch as it hath pleased God of his exceeding goodness, to stay his heavy hand wherewith the last year he punished our city of London by the infection of the Plague, Wee haue just cause given us both to be thankful to his divine majesty for his goodness,& to bee as provident as a careful Prince can bee, to take away occasion of reviving the same. Wherefore, for that there is at hand a notable Faire at bristol, commonly called S. james Faire, whereunto there is great resort, especially from our city of London, and the sickness reigning now in the said city of bristol, and places iovius: We haue thought good by open declaration of our pleasure, to admonish& require all our loving Subiects of our said city of London, to forbear to resort at this time to the said Faire, vpon pain of such punishment, as for a contempt so much concerning the universal safety of our people of our said city, they shall be adiudged to deserve, which we shall haue so much the more cause severely to inflict, because our return to our said City of London is like to bee very soon for our abode there, about great and weighty causes, from which by reviving of the sickness in that place( which God forbid) we might be put off, to the great hindrance of our affairs. given at our palace of Westminster the eight day of july, in the second year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and of Scotland the 37. Anno Dom. 1604. ¶ A Proclamation for the prices of Victuals within the Verge of the Court. WHereas diuers Bakers, Brewers, Inholders, Butchers, and other victuallers through their greedy desire of unlawful gain, not contented with reasonable profit in uttering and selling of Victuals unto our Subiects in the Common wealth, and specially in our progress within the Verge of our Court, where our nobility, Seruants and train( daily attending vpon our Person) are lodged and placed by our Harbingers, are unlawfully exacted vpon with unreasonable and extreme prices by the said Victuallers, enhaunsing the same Victuals, horse-meat, Lodgings, and all other necessaries, at a more deere price then it was sold for before our coming in progress: Therefore our Will and pleasure is, and wee do hereby straightly charge and command, That every man do obey and keep all such Prices as is and shall be prized, assessed and ranted by the clerks of the market of our household within the Verge of our Court, as well within Liberties as without, and the jury before him, or his lawful deputy, by virtue of his Office, sworn and charged from time to time: The same Rates and Prices not onely to be certified by our said clerk of the market or his deputy, into our counting house; But also fixed and set vpon the gates of our Court and other places within the Verge, as well within Liberties as without: And that no manner of person or persons of what estate or degree soever he or they be, do in any wise pay more for corn, Victuals, horse-meat, Lodging, or any other thing, then after the Rate and form aforesaid, vpon pain of imprisonment, and to be Fined, with further punishment that shall thereof follow: The same pains and punishments, and every part thereof to be executed, as well vpon them and every of them which do or shall presume to utter and sell any manner of thing or things contrary to the true meaning of this our Proclamation, As vpon all those which do or shall presume to pay any more for any kind of Victuals, horse-meat, Lodging, or any other necessaries, then is or shalbe ranted and prized as aforesaid. And moreover we do straightly charge and command, That no maner of person or persons, now using, or which hereafter shall use, or of right ought to use, to serve any city, Borough, town or other place, where our repose and abode is or shall be, or elsewhere, within the Verge of our Court, as well within liberties as without, with any kind of corn, victuals or any other necessaries, as well vpon the market day, as at any other time, shal be any thing the more remiss or slack in making of provision for the same, then they or any of them now be, or heretofore haue been, nor use any colour of craft to deceive the buyers thereof, nor hid or lay aside the same their corn, victuals, horse-meat, Lodgings, or any other necessaries, to diminish the market, whereby our whole train, within any city, Borough, town, or other the Inhabitants of the same, and other our Subiects thereunto resorting, should not be as well served and as plenteously furnished in every behalf, as it was before, or of right ought to haue been, in defraud of this our Ordinance. And furthermore we straightly charge and expressly command all our Iustices of Peace, our clerk of the market, his deputy or deputies, Maiors, bailiffs, sheriffs, Constables, and all other our faithful officers, and every of them, of Cities, Boroughs, towns, Hundreds, and other places within the Verge of our Court, as well within liberties as without: From time to time, when and as often as need shall require,( vpon complaint by any party justly made) diligently every of them within their authorities, forthwith to endeavour themselves, to see just punishment and due Reformation of the premises, against such person or persons as shall offend herein, according to Iustice, and Prices as aforesaid. given at our Court of Whitehall the tenth of july, in the second year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and of Scotland the seven and thirtieth. Anno Dom. 1604. ¶ A Proclamation enjoining conformity to the form of the service of God established. THe care which we haue had, and pains which we haue taken to settle the affairs of this Church of England in an uniformity as well of Doctrine, as of government, both of them agreeable to the word of God, the doctrine of the primitive Church, and the laws heretofore established for those matters in this realm, may sufficiently appear by our former actions. For no sooner did the Infection of the Plague, reigning immediately after our entry into this kingdom, give us leave to haue any Assembly, but we held at our honour of Hampton Court for that purpose a Conference between some principal Bishops and deans of this Church, and such other learned men as understood or favoured the opinions of those that seek Alteration, before ourself and our council. Of which Conference the issue was, That no well grounded matter appeared to us or our said council, why the state of the Church here by Law established, should in any material point be altered, Nor did those that before had seemed to affect such Alteration, when they heard the contrary Arguments, greatly insist vpon it, but seemed to be satisfied themselves, and to undertake within reasonable time to satisfy all others that were misled with opinion that there was any just cause of Alteration. Whereupon we published by our Proclamation what had been the Issue of that Conference, hoping that when the same should be made known, all reasonable men would haue restend satisfied with that which had been done, and not haue moved further trouble or speech of matters, whereof so solemn and advised determination had been made. Notwithstanding, at the late Assembly of our Parliament, there wanted not many that renewed with no little earnestness the Questions before determined, and many more as well about the book of Common Prayer, as other matters of Church government, and importuned us for our Assent to many Alterations therein: But yet with such success, as when they had heard both our own speeches made unto them at sundry times, showing the reasons of our former proceedings in those matters, And likewise had had Conference with some Bishops, and other Lords of the Vpperhouse about the same, they desisted from further prosecution thereof; finding, that of all things that might any way tend to the furtherance of Religion, and establishment of a ministry fit for the same, we had before with the aduise of our counsel, had such consideration, as the present state of things would bear, And taken order how the same should bee prosecuted by such means, as might be used without any public disturbance or innovation: And so the end of all their motions and overtures falling out to be none other in substance, then was before at the Conference at Hampton Court, That is, that no apparent or grounded reason was shewed, why either the book of Common Prayer, or the Church discipline here by law established should be changed( which were unreasonable) considering that particular and personal abuses are remediable otherwise, then by making general Alterations: We haue thought good once again to give notice thereof to all our Subiects, by public Declaration, who we doubt not but will receive great satisfaction, when they shall understand that after so much impugning, there appeareth no cause why the form of the service of God, wherein they haue been nourished so many yeeres, should bee changed: And consequently to admonish them all in general to conform themselves thereunto, without listening to the troublesone spirits of some persons, who never receive contentment, either in civil, or ecclesiastical matters, but in their own fantasies, especially of certain Ministers, who under pretended zeal of Reformation, are the chief Authors of divisions and Sects among our people. Of many of which, we hope that now, when they shall see that such things as they haue proposed for Alteration, prove vpon trial so weakly grounded, as deserve not admittance, they will out of of their own iudgement conform themselves to better advice, and not omit the principal and substantial parts of their duties, for shadows and semblances of zeal, but rather bend their strength with our intent to join in one end, that is, the establishing of the Gospel, and recovering of our people seduced out of the hands of the common aduersaries of our Religion, which shal never be well performed but by an uniformity of our endeavours therein. But if our hope herein fail us, we must advertise them, that our duty towards God requireth at our hands, that what untractable men do not perform vpon admonition, they must be compelled unto by Authority, whereof the Supreme power resting in our hands, by Gods ordinance, wee are bound to use the same in nothing more, then in preservation of the Churches tranquillitie, which by Gods grace we are fully purposed to do: And yet by aduise of our council,& opinion of the Bishops, although our former Proclamations both before the Conference and since, ought to be a sufficient warning and admonition to all men, who are within the danger of them, Wee haue thought good to give time to all Ministers disobedient to the Orders of the Church and to ecclesiastical Authority here by Law established, and who for such disobedience, either in the dayes of the queen our sister of famous memory deceased, or since our reign haue incurred any censures of the Church, or penalties of laws, until the last of november now next ensuing, to bethink themselves of the course they will hold therein. In which mean time both they may resolve either to conform themselves to the Church of England, and obey the same: Or else to dispose of themselves and their families some other ways, as to them shall seem meet: And the Bishops and others whom it concerneth, provide meet persons to be substitutes in the place of those who shall wilfully abandon their Charges vpon so slight causes: Assuring them that after that day, we shall not fail to do that which Princely providence requireth at our hands: That is, to put in execution all ways and means that may take from among our people, all grounds and occasions of Sects, divisions, and unquietness: Whereof as we wish there may never be occasion given us to make proof, but that this our admonition may haue equal force in all mens hearts, to work an universal conformity: So we do require all Archbishops, Bishops, and other Ecclesiastical persons, to do their uttermost endeavours by conferences, arguments, persuasions, and by all other ways of love and gentleness to reclaim all that be in the ministry, to the obedience of our Church laws; For which purpose onely wee haue enlarged the time formerly prefixed for their remove or Reformation, to the end that if it be possible, that uniformity which we desire, may be wrought by clemency, and by weight of Reason, and not by rigour of Law. And the like advertisement do we give to all civil Magistrates, Gentlemen, and others of understanding, as well abroad in the Counties, as in Cities and towns, Requiring them also, not in any sort to support, favour, or countenance any such factious Ministers in their obstinacy: of whose endeavours we doubt not, but so good success may follow, as this our admonition, with their endeavours, may prevent the use of any other means to retain our people in their due obedience to us, and in unity of mind, to the service of almighty God. given at our Mannour of Otelands the 16. day of july, in the second year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and of Scotland the seven and thirtieth. Anno Dom. 1604. ¶ A Proclamation appointing the day and place for the meeting of the Commissioners of England and Scotland. WHere at the late Session of our Parliament of this our Realm of England, one Act is made authorizing certain persons of both Houses to assemble and meet, and thereupon to treat and consult with certain selected Commissioners to be nominated and authorised by authority of the Parliament of our realm of Scotland, for the weal of both kingdoms, at any time before the next Session of this Parliament; And a like act is passed in our Parliament of our realm of Scotland, to give authority to Commissioners nominated for that Nation, For the performance whereof, it is necessary that a certain time be prefixed: We do therefore hereby make known, and publish to all our loving Subiects who are Commissioners by the act appoynted for that treaty, as well of the one Nation, as of the other, That we haue found it expedient for the Commissioners of both realms, to appoint the first day of the said meeting, to be on the twentieth day of October next ensuing the date hereof, at our city of Westminster, in the Chamber of our palace there, called the Painted Chamber. Whereof we require them all, and all others whom it may concern, to take knowledge, and to keep the day and place accordingly. given at our Castle of Windsor the fifteenth day of September, in the second year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and of Scotland the eight and thirtieth. Anno Dom. 1604. ¶ A Proclamation against selling of Ships. THe Kings most Excellent majesty being certainly advertised of many English Ships with their furniture sold of late into foreign parts beyond the Seas, contrary to the Law and Statutes in that case provided, and to the great damage and hurt of his loving Subiects; doth expressly charge and command all Merchants, Owners of Ships, Mariners, and all other his Subiects whom it may concern, That from henceforth they and every of them shall forbear to sell, truck, exchange or alienate any English ship or Vessel, directly or indirectly, without special licence first obtained for the same, under the great seal of England, Vpon pain for every such offence, to suffer imprisonment during the Kings pleasure, and to undergo such forfeitures and Fines as by the Statutes, laws and customs of this his majesties realm of England may bee inflicted vpon them in that behalf, as vpon transgressors of the laws and Statutes, and contemners of his majesties most royal Proclamation. And his majesty doth hereby straitly charge all Admirals, Viceadmirals, and other Officers of the admiralty, Maiors, Sheriffes, bailiffs, Customers, controllers, Searchers, and all other his Officers, whom it may concern, that they do carefully inquire after all such as shall offend in the premises, and cause them to be apprehended, and committed whom they shall find guilty, to the next Gaole, there to remain until they and every of them shall bee bound with sufficient Sureties, in competent sums, for their appearance before the Lords of his highnesse most honourable council at the next starchamber day, and not to depart thence without special leave first obtained. And if it shall appear that any of the said Officers haue used negligence or connivence herein, His majesty will extend the pain of his displeasure unto them, and cause them to feel the smart thereof. given at our Honour of Hampton Court the 15. day of October, in the second year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and of Scotland the eight and thirtieth. Anno Dom. 1604. ¶ A Proclamation concerning the Kings majesties style, of King of Great britain, &c. AS often as we call to mind the most joyful and just Recognition made by the whole body of our realm, in the first Session of our high Court of Parliament, of that blessing which it hath pleased God to reserve many yeeres in his providence to our Person, and now in the fullness of the time of his disposition, to bestow vpon us; Namely the blessed union, or rather reuniting of these two mighty, famous, and ancient kingdoms of England and Scotland, under one Imperial crown: So often do we think, that it is our duty to do our uttermost endeavour, for the aduancement and perfection of that work, which is of his beginning, and whereof he hath given so many palpable signs and arguments, as he that seeth them not, is blind, and he that impugneth them, doth but endeavour to separate that, which God hath put together. For, to omit those things which are evident to sense, That the Isle within itself hath almost none but imaginary bounds of separation without, but one common limit or rather Gard of the Ocean Sea, making the whole a little world within itself, the Nations an uniformity of constitutions both of body and mind, especially in Martiall prowesses, a community of language, the principal means of civil society, An unity of Religion, the chiefest band of hearty union, and the surest knot of lasting Peace: What can be a more express testimony of Gods authority of this work, then that two mighty Nations, having been ever from their first separation continually in blood each against other, should for so many yeeres immediately before our Succession, be at peace together, as it were to this end, That their memory being free from sense of the smart of former injuries, their minds might, in the time of Gods appointment, more willingly come together, That it hath pleased him so to dispose, that this union is not enforced by Conquest and violence, nor contracted by doubtful and deceivable points of transaction, but naturally derived from the Right and Title of the precedent Princes of both kingdoms, concurring in our person, alike lineally descended from the blood of both through the sacred coniunction of wedlock, An union which is the work of God and Nature, and whereunto the works of force and policy cannot attain? We may add hereunto that which we haue received from those that be skilful in the laws of this land, That immediately vpon our succession, diuers of the ancient laws of this realm are Ipso facto expired, As namely, that of Escuage, and of the naturalisation or the Subiects, And that there is a greater affinity and concurrence between most of the ancient laws of both kingdoms, then is to be found between those of any other two Nations, As namely, in states of inheritance and Freehold, as Fee-simple, fee-tail, Tenant for life, by courtesy, Dower and such like, In Cases of descents of inheritance, In tenors of Lands, as of Knights service, socage, frank Almoigne, Burgage, usage, and such like, In writs and forms of process, In cases of trial by Iuries, Grand Iuries, And lastly in Officers and ministers of Iustice, as Sheriffes, Coroners, and such like, which we leave to be further considered by the Commissioners of both realms. All which being matter prepared onely by the providence of Almighty God, and which by human industry could not haue been so ordered; We, and all our Subiects ought first with reverence to aclowledge his handiwork therein, and to give him our most humble thankes for the same, and then to further by our endeavours that, which his wisdom doth by so many signs point out to be his will: Whereof many particularities depending vpon the determinations of the States and Parliaments of both realms, wee leave them there to be discussed, according to the Commissions granted by the several Acts of both Parliaments. And some other things resting in our own imperial power, as the head of both, we are purposed towards the building of this excellent work, to do by ourself that, which justly and safely we may by our absolute power do. And for a first ston of this work, whereupon the rest may be laid, seeing there is undoubtedly but one Head to both peoples, which is ourself; And that vnfainedly we haue but one heart and mind to communicate equally to both States, as lines issuing from one Center, Our Iustice, our favours, and whatsoever else dependeth vpon the unity of our supreme power over both,( God having ministered to us so just cause to embrace them both with equal and indifferent love, in as much as our birth, and the first part of our life hath been in the one, and the later part thereof is like to be for the most part in the other:) Wee think it unreasonable, that the thing, which is by the work of God and nature so much in effect one, should not be one in name; unity in name being so fit a means to imprint in the hearts of people, a Character and memorial of that unity, which ought to be amongst them in dead. Wherefore we haue thought good to discontinue the divided names of England and Scotland out of our regal style, and do intend and resolve to take and assume unto us in maner& form hereafter expressed, The name& style of KING OF GREAT britain, including therein according to the truth, the whole iceland. Wherein no man can imagine us to be lead by any humour of vainglory or ambition, because we should in that case rather delight in a long enumeration of many kingdoms, and countries,( whereof in our inheritance we haue plenty enough, if we thought there were glory in that kind of style) but onely that we use it as a signification of that, which in part is already done, and a significant prefiguration of that, which is to be done hereafter; Nor that we covet any new affencted name devised at our pleasure, but out of undoubted knowledge do use the true and ancient name, which God and Time haue imposed vpon this Isle, extant, and received in histories, in all Mappes and carts, wherein this Isle is described, and in ordinary Letters to ourself from diuers foreign Princes, warranted also by authentical Charters, exemplifications under seals, and other Records of great antiquity, giuing us president for our doing, not borrowed out of foreign Nations, but from the acts of our Progenitors, Kings of this realm of England, both before and since the Conquest, having not had so just and great cause as we haue. Vpon all which considerations we do by these presents, by force of our Kingly power and prerogative, assume to ourself by the clearness of our Right, The Name and style of KING OF GREAT britain, FRANCE, AND IREAND, DEFENDER OF THE FAITH, &c. as followeth in our just and lawful style, And do hereby publish, promulge and declare the same, to the end that in all proclamations, Missiues foreign, and domestical, Treaties, Leagues, Dedicatories, Impressions, and in all other cases of like nature, the same may be used and observed. And to the end the same may be the sooner and more universally divulged both at home and abroad: Our will and pleasure is, That the same style be from henceforth used vpon all Inscriptions vpon our currant Moneys and coins of Gold and silver hereafter to be minted. And for that we do not innovate or assume to us any new thing, but declare that which is and hath been evident to all; Our will and pleasure is, That in such Appellations or Nominations, as shall be hereafter made by force of these presents, the same shall bee expressed in such and the same maner and form, and after such computation, as if wee had assumed and declared the same the first day of our reign of our realm of England; Forbearing onely for the present that any thing herein contained do extend to any legal proceeding, instrument, or assurance, until further order bee taken in that behalf. given at our palace of Westminster the twentieh day of October, in the second year of our reign of England, France and Ireland, and of Scotland the eight and thirtieth. Anno Dom. 1604. ¶ A Proclamation for the Search and apprehension of certain Pirates. WHereas it hath appeared unto us by the Records of our high Court of the Admiralty, That William Hull captain of a Ship called the Talbot of Topisham in our County of devon, And Philip Ward captain of a Ship called the Thomasine of Dartmouth in the said county, Christopher Newman, Edward Follet, and Henry Burt, with diuers others their Complices and associates, serving as Mariners or Souldiers in the said Ships, respectively stand indicted, for that they in november 1602. with their ships in warlike manner appoynted within the Mediterranean Seas, did rob and spoil a Ship called la Serene of Olona in France, and the goods therein laden, belonging unto diuers subiects of our good brother The most Christian King: And not content therewith, did also in most savage maner commit wilful murder( a crime most foul, odious and detestable in the sight of God,& man) vpon the persons of diuers of the French men, being in the said Ship, against the laws and Statutes of this realm: We of our Princely care for the administration of Iustice( the main pillar of our Estate) do with no less zeal, as well for the fatisfaction of foreign Princes, as for the example of others in like cases offending, intend to prosecute them, and all their Abettors, Complices and Accessaries, with the greatest seneritie of our laws in that case provided: And therfore we will, and strictly command all and every our Officers and loving subiects, that immediately after the sight of this present Proclamation, they and every of them do make diligent search and inquiry in all places as well exempt, as not exempt, for the said persons, and all and every of them, and the same, or any of them so found, to apprehended and commit to the next Gaole, there to be detained, until our high admiral, or his Lieutenant judge of our high Court of the admiralty, vpon notice given unto either of them, of the persons so committed, shall take order in that behalf. And moreover our pleasure is, that no person or persons whatsoever, shall witting or wilfully receive, conceal, harbour, entertain or lodge the said pirates and murtherers, or any of them, or any of their said Complices and associates, into their house or houses, after the sight and knowledge of this Proclamation,( knowing them by circumstances, credible informations, or otherwise, to be the persons aforenamed) vpon pain unto every such person and persons so receiving, concealing, harbouring, interteining or lodging any of the said Pirates and murtherers, or any of their complices, of death and forfeiture of all their lands, goods and chattels, according to the laws and statutes in that case provided. given at our palace of Westminster, the 12. day of november, in the second year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1604. ¶ A Proclamation for coins. ALthough it be most certain, that nothing is more appropropriate to the sovereign dignity of Princes, then the ordering of their Moneys, and setting them at such prices and valuations, as they shall think convenient vpon necessary causes; Yet haue we always been of opinion, that just Princes should not use the liberty of their power in abasing or enhaunsing the prices of Moneys, without all respect to the common benefit of their Subiects. In which consideration it is evident to all men, that since our entry into this realm, we haue been so far from changing the ancient and honourable Standard of the Starling Money of this our realm of England, as wee haue on the contrary restored to our realm of Ireland Moneis of pure silver, in lieu of the base coin, with which the necessity of the time, by accident of the warres, constrained our sister the late queen of happy memory to pay the Armies. nevertheless, it falling out at our first coming out of Scotland,( where wee had coins of Gold and silver not then cnerant in this realm) to be impossible for our nobility and other seruants and Subiects attending us in our journey hither, to be provided of currant Moneys of this realm for their expenses so soon as our speed required; Wee did then give valuation to the coin of gold of Scotland, called the six pound piece, to be currant here for ten shillings of silver, and to be equal to the English Angel or sovereign of Gold: The authorizing whereof coming lately into consideration, among other points recommended by us to be treated for the weal of both kingdoms, by some of our counsel of each of them, It hath appeared that the inconvenience is fit to be removed, which groweth by our authorizing it to be equal to the Gold coins of England: Not that it is not worth in true value ten shillings of our silver moneys of England, but because that the English coins of Gold are not in regard of the silver coins, of the true proportion between Gold and silver accustomend in all Nations. Whereupon our council having occasion to enter into further consideration of the Moneys of this realm, with the assistance of the Officers of the Mint, it appeareth very visibly, that this error in the proportion of the Gold moneys of England to the silver, hath been a great cause of the transportation of Gold out of this realm into foreign Countreys in such quantity, as of late yeeres hath been used, because the said Gold moneys are more worth in their true value, then here they were allowed. To which inconvenience long endured, being now resolved to give remedy, we haue caused new coins both of Gold and silver to be made of several stamps, weights and valves, but of one uniform Standard and alloy, to be currant within this our kingdom of GREAT britain: that is to say, One piece of Gold of the value of twenty shillings sterling, to be called The unite, stamped on the one side with our Picture formerly used, with this our style, jacobus D'. G'. madge'. BRIT'. FRAN'.& HIB'. REX. And on the other side, our arms crwoned, and with this word, Faciam eos in gentem unam. One other Gold money of ten shillings, to bee called, The double crown, And one other Gold money of five shillings, to be called, The britain crown. On the one side with our Picture accustomend, and our style as aforesaid, and on the other side, our arms, and this word, Henricus Rosas, Regna Iacobus. One other piece of four shillings, to be called, The Thistle crown, having on the one side a Rose crwoned, and our Title, IA'. D'. G'. MAG. BR. F.& H. REX: and on the other side, a Thistle flower crwoned, with this word, Tueatur vnita Deus. Also pieces of Two shillings six pence, to be called, half Crownes, with our Picture accustomend, and this word, I'. D'. G'. Rosa sine spina: and on the other side, our arms, and this word, Tueatur vnita Deus. And for silver moneys, pieces of five shillings, and Two shillings six pence, having on the one side our Picture on horseback, and our style aforesaid: And pieces of twelve pence and six pence, having our Picture formerly used, and our style as aforesaid, And on the other side our arms, and this word, Quae Deus coniunxit, nemo separet. Also pieces of Two pence, having on the one side a Rose crwoned, and about it, I'. D'. G'. Rosa sine spina: And on the other side a Thistle flower crwoned, and about it, Tueatur vnita Deus. And one penny, having on the one side a Rose, and about it, I'. D'. G'. Rosa sine spina: And on the other side a Thistle flower, and about it, Tueatur vnita Deus. And the Halfe-pennie having on the one side a Rose, and on the other side, a Thistle flower. All which several coins both of Gold and silver, we do hereby publish, declare, and authorize to be amongst others heretofore used our moneys currant for this our kingdom of Gteat britain, to bee used and received by all the Subiects thereof, in all receipts and Payments, and in all manner of trafficking, Bargaining, and dealing between man and man, at the several Rates and valves contained in the Table hereunder written, expressing their true valves and weights, according to the account of the Mint men of both Nations. given at our palace of Westminster, the sixteenth day of november, in the second year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1604. IT is to be remembered that the pound weight English, being 12. ounces Troy, doth ouer-poix the pound weight of Scotland 4.d. weight, and 9. grains English: Whereupon this Table is made, to distinguish every several piece of Gold and silver coin, according to the true weight of both Nations. ¶ English Weights.     penny weights 20 Grains 24 Mites 20 Droits 24 Periots 20 Blanks 24   Pieces of Gold of xx. s. 06 10 16 18 10   Of these 37. li. 4. s. make a pound weight Troy. x.s. 03 05 08 09 05   v.s. 01 14 14 04 12 12 iiij. s. 01 06 19 08 10   ij. s. vj. d. 00 19 07 02 06 06 Pieces of silver of v.s. 19 08 10 08     Of these 3. li. 2. s. make a pound weight Troy. ij s. vj. d. 09 16 05 04     xij. d. 03 20 18 01 10   vj. d. 01 22 09 00 15   ij. d. 00 15 09 16 05   j.d. 00 07 14 20 02 12 ob. 00 03 17 10 01 06 ¶ Scottish Weights.     Deniers 24 grains 24 Primes 24 Seconds 24 Thirds 24 Fourths 24     Pieces of Gold of xx. s. 07 21 07 01 09 19   Of these 36. li. 10. s. 3. d.q. make 12. oz. Scottish. Or 48. li. 3. s. 8.d. x.s. 03 22 15 12 16 21 ½ v.s. 01 23 07 18 08 10 ¾ iiij. s. 01 13 20 14 16 08 ¾ ij. s. vj. d. 00 23 15 21 04 05   Pieces of silver of v.s. 23 15 21 05 00 13   Of these 3. li. 10. d. q. or 4. li. 1. s.d. ob. di. q. di. di. q. ij. s. vj. d. 11 19 22 14 12 06 ½ xij. d. 04 17 13 20 01     vj. d. 02 08 08 22 00 12   ij. d. 00 18 22 07 08 04   j.d. 00 09 11 03 16 02   ob. 00 04 17 13 20 01   ¶ A Proclamation for the Proroguing of the Parliament. WHereas at the late rising of the first Sesion of our Parliament, We did prorogue the same until the seventh day of February next, intending then to hold at that time another Session thereof: We haue since been informed from diuers parts of our realm, that some contagion of sickness doth yet so continue in many of our principal Cities and towns, and is also scattered in diuers other places of less note, as if we should against the Spring of the year draw so great a concourse of people together, as the assembly of the Parliament bringeth with it,( the continuance whereof is uncertain) it were much to be doubted, that the infection of the plague might be renewed again in our City of London, which is our Chamber, and the place of our most ordinary residence, as it did the first year of our entry, by reason of the great assembly at our Coronation, which if the settling of our State here had not necessary required to be then performed, Wee would haue forborn. And forasmuch also as for these two yeeres past, by reason of our entry into this our kingdom, our Coronation, the holding of our Parliament, and such other solemnities, requiring the presence of persons of the best sort, the most part of the Gentlemen of quality of this realm haue been absent from the places of their ordinary abode, whereby the Countreys haue wanted their assistance in the government of them, and our people the comfort of their presence and hospitality: We haue therefore thought it convenient to prorogue our said Parliament until the third day of October next ensuing, at which time we intend by Gods grace to hold another Session thereof, And in the mean time all those, who repaired hither about the Commission concerning the union, or do now reside here in expectation of that Session of our Parliament at the time appointed, may return to their own homes until the said third day of October, when we will expect again their attendance. And in the mean time we do straitly charge and command them, and all other who haue any trust to them from us, either in the Commission of the peace, or otherwise for the good government of our people, that they do immediately repair home to their own dwellings, to attend to such services as to them belong to do, whereof by their absence both wee and our Subiects are defrauded. given at our palace of Westminster the 24. day of December, in the second year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1604. ¶ A Publication concerning all sorts of Gold and silver thread, granted by his majesties Letters Patents, under the great seal. WHereas we haue been informed of the manifest injuries and wrongs done unto us by the secret bringing and conveying into this our Realm of England and other our Dominions of right gold thread, right silver thread, and right gold and silver thread, wrought and unwrought in lace and otherwise, commonly called and known by the name or names of Venice gold, Venice silver, or Venice gold and silver, Florence gold, Florence silver, or Florence gold and silver, French gold, French silver, or French gold and silver, Millen gold, Millen silver, or Millen gold and silver, and Copper gold thread and Copper silver thread, and Copper gold and silver thread wrought and unwrought in lace or otherwise, commonly called or known by the name or names of Cap gold, Cap silver, and Cap gold and silver, Cullen gold, Cullen silver, or Cullen gold and silver, Bridges gold, Bridges silver, or Bridges gold and silver, or by what other name or names soever, in secret and unlawful maner without paying the custom and Subsidy of right due and belonging to us of or for the same: For remedy whereof wee haue thought good by our letters patents indented under our great seal of England, bearing date the 13. day of january last past, to demise and to farm let unto Roger pennel and Richard Grimstone, their executors and assigns, all the customs and Subsidies which at any time or times, during the space and term of 16. yeeres next after the feast of S. Michael the Archangel last past, before the date of the said Letters Patents, should or ought to arise, renew, happen, grow due, or payable to us, our heires and successors, of, for, or in respect of all or any of the said wears, commodities and merchandises of all or any of the sorts, or kinds aforesaid, or called or known by any of the names aforesaid, which at any time or times during the said term of 16. yeeres, should be brought or transported from any the parts beyong the seas into this realm of England, or any of the Dominions of the same, for such yearly rent as by the said Letters Patents is to us, our heires and successors reserved. And whereas also by the same Letters Patents we haue straitly charged and forbidden all manner of persons other then the said Roger pennel and Richard Grimstone, their executors, deputies, and assigns, and other then such person or persons, as within the space of six moneths next after the publication hereof, shall become bound unto the said Roger pennel, and Richard Grimstone, or to the suruiuour of them, or to the assigns of them, or of the suruiuour of them, in a bond of five hundred pounds, of lawful English money, for the due payment of such customs and subsidies, as by the laws and Statutes of this realm ought to be answered and paid for the said wears and commodities and every of them, and not to utter or sell the same wears or merchandise, or any part thereof, before such time as the same wears or merchandise shalbe sealed with the seal mentioned in the said Letters Patents, whereof the print and stamp is set and expressed in the margin of these presents( unless the said Roger pennel and Richard Grimstone shall neglect or refuse to seal the same) to transport or bring from any the parts beyond the Seas, and to lay on land within this our realm of England, or any of the Dominions of the same at any time or times, during the said term of sixteen yeeres, any of the said wears, commodities or merchandise, of all or any the natures, sorts or kindes aforesaid, or called or known by any of the names aforesaid. And whereas also by the said Letters Patents we haue granted that it shall and may be lawful to and for the said Roger pennel and Richard Grimstone, their and either of their executors, deputies, factors, and assigns, and to and for all such person and persons onely which shall so become bound, according to the purport and true meaning of the said Letters Patents, to bring or cause to be brought from the parts beyond the Seas, into this our realm of England, or any of the Dominions of the same, according to the laws and Statutes of this realm, any of the said wears, commodities or merchandise, of all or any of the kinds or natures aforesaid, or called or known by any of the names aforesaid: And further by our said Letters Patents we haue willed and commanded that no merchant, nor any other person or persons shall within the said term of sixteen yeres buy, acquire, obtain or receive within this our realm of England, or any of the dominions of the same, of any person or persons, to the intent to merchandise, bargain, vent or utter again in gross or by retail, or to work or make in lace or fringe, any of the said wears, commodities or merchandises of any the natures or kindes aforesaid, or called or known by any the names aforesaid, unless the same be first marked or sealed with the said seal, unless the said Roger pennel and Richard Grimstone, their executors, administrators, deputies factors and assigns, shal wilfully refuse or neglect to seal the same vpon pain of our high displeasure, and to suffer such Fine and corporal punishment as offenders in case of wilful contempt of our express commandement ought to suffer and sustain. And moreover by the said Letters Patents our will and pleasure is signified, and we thereby willed and commanded that the said Roger pennel and Richard Grimstone, their deputies, factors, seruants, and assigns, shall haue convenient place in the custom house of London, and in all other custom houses, and places of lading or unlading of wears elsewhere within England, or in any of the Dominions of the same, there, at their pleasure to be present, and to receive, collect and enjoy without interruption of any person or persons whatsoever, all the said customs and subsidies according to our said Letters Patents, and haue granted by the same Letters Patents unto the said Roger pennel and Richard Grimstone, their deputies, factors, seruants and assigns, being accompanied with the Constable, or any other our officers for the time being, in lawful maner and from time to time, and at all times lawful, meet and convenient, during the said term of sixteen yeeres, to search all ships, vessels, boats, bottoms, houses, warehouses, shops or convenient place or places whatsoever, for all or any of the said wears, merchandises or commodities of any of the natures or kindes aforesaid, or called or known by any of the names aforesaid, whereof the customs and subsidies are granted or demised by the said Letters Patents, as shall be brought or laid on land within this our realm of England, or any of the dominions of the same within the said term of sixteen yeeres, by any person or persons, before the customs and Subsidies due for the same shall be paid or compounded for, to or with the said Roger pennel and Richard Grimstone, their executors, administrators or assigns, and to take and seize the same. And furthermore whereas wee haue by our said Letters Patents straitly charged and commanded all and every person and persons, Merchants denizens or strangers whatsoever, that they or any of them do not attempt or presume to vnship, discharge, unlade, and lay on land any of the wears, commodities, or merchandises before mentioned, in any Port, haven, creeke, place or places whatsoever within this our realm, before such times as the customs and Subsidies due and payable for the said wears, merchandises and commodities, and every of them, be duly answered, paid, or compounded for, to or with the said Roger pennel and Richard Grimstone, or either of them, their, or either of their executors, administrators, deputies, seruants, factors or assigns, or some, or one of them, vpon pain that every person, or persons, Merchants denizens or strangers whatsoever, that shall unlade, or lay on land any of the said wears, merchandises or commodities,( the customs and Subsidies whereof are by the said Letters Patents demised and granted) before such time as the customs and Subsidies thereof shall first be duly answered, paid or compounded for, to or with the said Roger pennel and Richard Grimstone, or either of them, their, or either of their executors, administrators, deputies, factors, or assigns, within the said term of sixteen yeeres in these presents mentioned, shall forfeit and loose all and every the same wears, merchandises and commodities so vnshipped, unladen, discharged or laid on land, before such time as the customs and Subsidies by the said Letters patents demised and granted payable for the same wears, merchandises or commodities, be or shalbe first duly answered or compounded for, to or with the said Roger pennel and Richard Grimstone, or either of them, their, or either of their executors, administrators, Factors, deputies or assigns, the one moiety of all which forfeitures to be to us our heires and successors, to the use of us, our heires and successors, and the other moiety of the same forfeitures to be to the said Roger pennel and Richard Grimstone, their executors, administrators and assigns, or to such other person or persons as shall first seize the same to his or their own uses, without any account therof to us, our heires and successors, to be rendered or paid for the same. And whereas by our said Letters Patents wee haue charged and commanded all and every Customers, controllers, surveyors, Searchers, Waiters, and other our Officers and Ministers whatsoever, of all and every Ports, havens, creeks, members and passages within this our realm of England and dominion of Wales, That they or any of them shall not permit, tolerate, or suffer directly or indirectly any Merchant English, denizen or stranger, or other person whatsoever, to discharge, unlade or lay on land any of the said wears, merchandises and commodities, the customs and Subsidies whereof are by the said Letters Patents demised and granted unto the said Roger Pennel and Richard Grimstone, before such time as the customs and Subsidies thereof be duly answered, paid or compounded for, to and with the said Roger pennel and Richard Grimstone, or one of them, their, or one of their executors, administrators, assigns, deputies, Factors or seruants, or some of them, according to the true intent and meaning of the said Letters Patents. And that if any such wears, merchandises or commodities, be discharged, unladen or laid on land, that after knowledge thereof, they shall forthwith and with all convenient speed, give notice of such discharging, unlading or laying on land to the said Roger pennel and Richard Grimstone, or one of their executors, administrators and assigns, or to their deputies, Factors, or seruants, to the end they may take the benefit of our said Grant, vpon pain of our displeasure and indignation, and of such forfeiture, pain and punishment, as by the laws of our realm can or may be inflicted vpon them, and every of them in that behalf. And we haue also by our said Letters patents straitly charged, prohibited and forbidden all and every the Owners, Farmers, or occupiers of all and every Wharfes, keys, Brewhouses, and other such like place and places of lading, or unlading whatsoever, within this our realm of England, That they nor any of them shall not suffer or permit any goods, wears, merchandises or other commodities to be vnshipped, unladen, discharged or laid on land, in any of the said Wharfes, keys, Brewhouses or other such like places of lading or unlading, contrary to the books of customs made in the seventh year of the reign of our dear Sister Elizabeth the late queen of England, vpon pain of our displeasure and indignation, and of such pains and penalties as by the laws and Statutes of this realm can or may be inflicted on them for their offence in that behalf, As by the said Letters Patents more at large appeareth. All which premises, to the intent our will and pleasure in that behalf might the better be known to all such our loving Subiects whom it may concern, We are pleased that they should in our name bee published, notified and commended by these presents to all and every our loving Subiects to be done and performed, vpon the pains and penalties aforesaid, according to the tenor and true intent of the said Letters Patents. 2. February. 1604. ¶ A Proclamation concerning Leases and Asserts. HIs most Excellent majesty calling to his remembrance, that the imperial crown of this realm hath ever been enriched with Honours, palaces, Castles, Lordships, manors, Forrests, parks, chaces, Lands, Tenements, revenues and hereditaments, of a greater yearly value, then any King or Prince in Europe, And not finding any of them to haue been by any of his Progenitors( Kings and queens of this realm) so individually annexed to the said imperial crown, but that the same hath been severed or divided: And where it hath pleased Almighty God of his infinite and unspeakable mercy towards this realm, both in present, and to all future posterities, not onely to bless and enrich his majesty with such a plentiful and royal progeny, above the most of the Kings of the world, as his loving Subiects and their posterities shal, by Gods providence, for ever be freed from all former fears, and live in all happiness and safety, under the certain and blessed government of his majesty, and his royal issue, until all the kingdoms of the earth shal haue an end, but also with such Issues, as God hath endowed with so many rare and excellent virtues and gifts both of body and mind, the multiplication of which his royal posterity( to our further comfort) remaineth in Gods secret pleasure: His majesty intending to begin and leave an example both to his own and others, of his royal and natural care, as well for the certain supportation and amplitude of his royal successors, Kings of this realm, and for honourable Ioinctures to be made to the queens of this realm for the time being, as also for competent sustentation and aduancement of the Kings younger children, in honourable and prosperous estate, as appertaineth; Hath( out of his Princely wisdom and providence, by advice of his privy council) resolved to haue all those Honours, palaces, Castles, Lordships, manors, Forrests, parks, chaces, Lands, Tenements and hereditaments, parcel of the possessions of his majesties crown of England, and of the duchy of Lancaster, as are set down and expressed in fourteen Schedules, to be individually and inseparably, for the purposes and intents abovesaid, at the next Session of Parliament, by authority and consent of the same, united and annexed for ever hereafter to the imperial crown of this realm. His most excellent majesty understanding, that the greatest part of the premises be in Lease for lives or yeeres in possession, and most of them in reversion for term of yeeres, All which be subject not onely to strict conditions, but also to diuers other questions and ambiguities, which cannot so perfectly and effectually be salved and remedied after the said Annexation, as they may now be, and in his Princely care and favour to his loving Subiects tendering their quiet, without seeking such advantages, as his majesty might by the laws of this realm, by reason of the said Conditions, and other defects: And to the end there may be a mean, whereby his Highnesse said subiects may with less charge and attendance attain to a convenient Composition in such cases; Hath by his Highnesse Commission under the great seal of England, given full power and Authority unto certain Commissioners in the said Commission mentioned, from time to time to give and take order, as well for the Surrender of any Estate, Lease, or term for yeeres, life or lives, mentioned to be demised by any Letters Patents, Indentures, or writings, of any of the aforesaid premises or any part thereof, as thereupon, for such reasonable and moderate consideration as shal be thought fit by the said Commissioners to grant, demise, and let to farm to every such person or persons so surrendering the Estate, term, or Interest, claimed by them as aforesaid, or to such persons as they shal nominate in that behalf, such, and so many of the premises, as shall be so mentioned to be surrendered, for the term of forty yeeres or under in possession( other then Marsh or surrounded Grounds, and certain other hereditaments, which may be demised for a longer term, as hath been heretofore accustomend) or for term of six lives or under, or for such term of yeeres, life, or lives, as shall be by any person or persons mentioned to be surrendered. And further to grant, demise, and let to farm to any person or persons in reversion for reasonable consideration, for the term of one and twenty yeeres, or for such number of yeeres in reversion, as shall be so mentioned to be surrendered as is aforesaid, any of the foresaid premises now in Lease, or Estate to any person or persons, to commence and take effect after the Determination, Surrender, or forfeiture of the present Interest, term or estate. And his majesty hath further for the great quiet and safety of his loving Subiects,( whom it doth concern) authorised the said Commissioners to contain in every Lease by force of the said Commission to be made, such penalties of Nomine poenae or other reasonable clauses( in stead of the strict provisoes and Conditions) as the said Commissioners shall in their wisedoms and discretions think fit, as by the said Commission more at large appeareth. And whereas his most excellent majesty, being informed that many of his loving Subiects, and their Ancestors, haue for very small Rent of long and ancient time been in quiet possession of diuers messages, Lands, tenements, and hereditaments called Asserts, Wasts, or Prepastures, which are, or were within the limits of some of his majesties Forrests, Hath for the common good and quiet of all his loving Subiects, and for avoiding of chargeable and tedious Suits, by one other Commission under the great seal of England, given full power and authority unto certain Commissioners in the said Commission mentioned, for such considerations as are therein expressed, to bargain, sell and conclude for his majesty, and in his Highnesse name, for any of the said Assert lands, Wasts or Prepastures, to and with any person or persons, and their heires in Feefarme, or other estate of inheritance, with a discharge of the mean profits thereof, as by the said Commission more at large also appeareth. In consideration whereof, and for that the time being run out, and the said Annexation once established, the said Farmers, Leassees, occupiers, possessors, and others claiming under them, cannot obtain to themselves so certain and assured means of their benefit, quiet and freedom from Questions, Suits, and troubles, for the comfort of themselves, their wives and children, as they now may: His most excellent majesty hath of his abundant grace( with aduise of his privy council) caused this his royal and Princely care and favour to all his loving Subiects, to be by these presents openly and universally divulged and published, to the end that all of them( whom it concerneth) may in time apprehended, and take the benefit thereof, and none of them may be prevented of so great a benefit, for want of timely knowledge or understanding. given at our palace of Westminster the xvij. day of February, in the second year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1604. ¶ A Proclamation for revocation of Mariners from foreign services. WHereas within this short time since the Peace concluded between us and the king of spain and the Archdukes our good brothers, it hath appeared unto us that many Mariners and Seafaring men of this realm, having gotten a custom and habit in the time of the war to make profit by spoil, do leave their ordinary and honest vocation and Trading in Merchantly Voyages, whereby they might both reap convenient maintenance, and be serviceable to their country, And do betake themselves to the service of diuers foreign States, under the title of men of war, to haue thereby occasion to continue their unlawful and ungodly course of living by spoil, using the service of those Princes but for colour and pretext, but in effect making themselves commonly no better then pirates to rob both our own Subiects their countrymen, and the subiects of other Princes our neighbours, going in their honest Trade of merchandise: By which courses they do impeach the quiet traffic of Nations one with other, leave our realm unfurnished of men of their sort, if we should haue cause to use them, and enure themselves to an impious disposition of living by rapine and evil means, although by reason of the universal peace wherein wee are at this present with all Christian Princes and States, they may haue a more plentiful employment in an orderly and lawful navigation, then at any time of late yeeres they could haue had: We haue thought it necessary in time to prevent the spreading of such a corruption amongst our Subiects of that sort and calling, whereby our Nation will be so much slandered,& our realm so greatly disaduantaged. Wherefore we do will and command all Masters of ships, Pilots, Mariners, and all other sort of Seafaring men, who now are in the Martiall service of any foreign States, that they do presently return home into their own country, and leave all such foreign services, and betake themselves to their vocation in the lawful course of merchandise, and other orderly navigation, vpon such pains and punishments as by the laws of our realm may be inflicted vpon them, if after this declaration of our pleasure, they shall not obey. And we do also vpon the same pains straitly charge and command al our Subiects of that profession, that none of them shall from henceforth take Letters of mark or reprisal, nor serve under any that hath such letters of mark or reprisal from any foreign Prince or State whatsoever, Nor otherwise employ themselves in any warlike services of any foreign State vpon the Sea, without special licence obtained from ourself, or from our high admiral, as they will answer the contrary at their perils. And forasmuch as although we are in Peace with all Christian Princes and States, yet during the continuance of the war between the King of spain, and the Archdukes on the one side, and the united provinces of the Low-Countreys on the other side, many chances may happen, as some already haue happened, of difficult interpretation to our Officers and Subiects how to behave themselves in such cases, unless they be explained unto them: Wee haue thought it convenient to make an open declaration how our said Officers and Subiects shall demean themselves towards the Subiects as well of the King of spain and Archdukes, as also of the States united in the cases following. First our pleasure is, That within our ports, havens, Rodes, creeks, or other places of our Dominion, or so near to any of our said ports or havens, as may bee reasonably construed to bee within that Title, Limit, or Precinct, there shall be no force, violence, surprise, or offence suffered to be done either from Man of war to Man of war, or Man of war to Merchant, or Merchant to Merchant of either party, but that all of what Nation soever, so long as they shall bee within those our Ports and places of our jurisdiction, or where our Officers may prohibit violence, shall bee understood to be under our protection to bee ordered by course of Iustice, and be at peace each with other. And whereos some of the Men of war of each side haue used of late, and it is like will use in time to come, though not to come within our Ports, because there they know wee can restrain violence, yet to hover and hang about the skirts of our Ports, somewhat to Seaboard, but yet so near our coasts and the entry of our Harbours, as in reason is to be construed to be within the extent of the same, and there to await the Merchant of the adverse part, and do seize and take them at their going out of our Ports, which is all one in a manner, as if they took them within our Port, and will bee no less hindrance to the trade of Merchants: Our pleasure therefore and commandment is to all our Officers and Subiects by Sea and Land, That they shall prohibit, as much as in them lieth, all such hovering of Men of war of either side, so near the entry of any of our havens or our coasts, And that they shall rescue and succour all Merchants, and others that shall fall within the danger of any such as shall await our coasts in so near places, to the hindrance of Trade and traffic outward and homeward from and to our kingdoms. And for the better instructions of our Officers in the execution of these two Articles, Wee haue caused to be sent to them plaits of those Limits, within which we are resolved that these Orders shalbe observed. And where it hath happened, and is like to do often, that a Ship of war of the one side may come into some of our Ports, where there shall bee a Merchant of the other side: In such case, for the benefit and preservation of the lawful Trade of Merchants, Our pleasure is, That all Merchants Ships, if they will require it, shall bee suffered to depart out of the said Port, two or three tides before the Man of war, to the intent that the Merchant may bee free from the pursuit of his adversary. And if it so happen, that any Ship or Ships of war of the one side, do find any Ship or Ships of war of the other side in any our Ports or roads aforesaid; Like as our pleasure is that during their abode there, all violence be forborn: So do wee likewise command our said Officers and Subiects both on Sea and Land, That the Ship of war which came in first, bee suffered to depart a tide or two before the other which came in last, And that for so long time they shall stay and detain any ship of war, that would offer to pursue another out of any our Ports immediately. And where wee are informed, that notwithstanding the severity of our laws against receivers of pirates goods, many of our Officers of our Ports, and other inhabitants within and near unto them, do receive daily Goods brought in from Sea by such as are indeed pirates, if they, and the getting of their Goods, were well examined: We do hereby admonish them all, to avoid the receiving or buying of any Goods from Sea, coming not into the realm by lawful course of Merchandise, for that they shall find, wee are resolved so to prevent all occasion and encouragement of pirates to bee used by any our Subiects, as wee will cause our laws to bee fully executed according to their true meaning, both against the pirates, and all receivers and Abetters of them, and their Goods. given at Thetford the first day of March, in the second year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1604. ¶ A Proclamation for Buildings, in and about LONDON. THe Kings most Excellent majesty seeing of what necessary use Timber is, as well for the maintenance of the Shipping and navy of this realm, being a principal mean for the defence thereof, As for Building, and other needful uses: And understanding withall, how much and how extraordinarily the same hath been, and is decayed and consumed in all parts of this realm, In so much as in the very City of London( being the principal city of this realm) they are now daily driven to build with Beech, and other like kind of Timber, being of small continuance, which in time will bee ( if the same be not prevented) the notorious peril and decay of the same city: doth therefore straitly charge and command, that as well all Statutes and laws heretofore made, and now in force, for the preservation of Timber, As that also concerning Inmates, and the erecting and continuing of Cottages, bee from henceforth duly and exactly put in execution. Forbidding withall, that none bee so hardly vpon pain of Contempt, and his majesties High displeasure, as to convert any part of any three, that may serve for any use of Timber, to any coal or Fire-wood. And for the better preservation of Timber, and to avoid the unnecessary consumption thereof, His majesty also straitly chargeth and commandeth, That between this and the feast of S. Michael the Archangel next coming, no New house bee built within the same city of London, or the suburbs thereof, or within one mile of the same suburbs, contrary to the Proclamations in that behalf heretofore made. And that from and after the said feast of S. Michael the Archangel, no person shall build or erect any New house, or the forefront of any House in any new Building, where any former Building was, within the same city or Suburbs, or within one mile of the said Suburbs, except all the utter walls and windows thereof, and the forefront of the same be wholly made of brick, or brick and ston, And the forefront thereof in every respect shall bee made of that uniform order and form, as shall be prescribed unto them for that Street where such Building shall happen to be, by the chief Magistrates of the same city, being within the city and the Liberties thereof, and being out of the city by such Iustices of the Peace or other Magistrates, as haue the government in that place, vpon pain to bee fined and imprisoned for the same, by order of the Court of star-chamber. And to the end that some fitting and orderly course may bee taken and set down for uniformity to bee kept in every Sreete, where such Buildings shall bee, His majesty purposeth to direct out his Commission to discreet and skilful persons, to consider of, and set down some fit Orders and direction for the same. And his majesty further expressly chargeth and commandeth all Maiors, Iustices of the Peace, Constables, Stewards of Leets and Lawdayes, and all others his majesties loving Subiects, to whom it shall or may appertain, carefully to look into, and execute the premises, and not to permit or suffer any thing to be done contrary to the true intent and meaning of this Proclamation. And that they take order that such offenders or workmen, as shall persist in doing any thing to the contrary thereof after admonition to them in that behalf to bee given, be bound to appear in the said Court of starchamber at the next sitting day of the same Court, there to bee proceeded against as contemners of his majesties express commandment, Proclamation and prerogative royal. given at Thetford the first day of March, in the second year of his majesties reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1604. ANNO TERTIO jacobi REGIS. ¶ A Proclamation concerning Assart lands. WHereas by our Proclamation given at our palace of Westminster the 18. day of February, in the second year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland, we did publish& make it known to our loving Subiects, that for their common good and quiet, and for avoiding of chargeable and tedious Suits, wee had by our Commission under the Great seal of England, given full power and authority unto certain Commissioners in the said Commission mentioned, for us, and in our name to bargain, sell and conclude for diuers our messages, Lands, Tenements, and Hereditaments called Assarts, Wasts or Purprestures, which are or were within the limits of some of our Forrests, to and with any person or persons, and their heires in fee-farm, or other estate of inheritance, with a discharge of the mean profits, as by our said Proclamation may more at large appear: Whereupon wee doubted not but our loving Subiects whom it did concern, and who haue been long in possession of the said lands at very low Rates, would haue taken care in time to haue provided for their own profit, safety and peace therein. And nevertheless wee are of late informed, that hitherto very few of them haue appeared before our said Commissioners to compound or conclude for any of our said messages, Lands, Tenements or Hereditaments, as was expected, presuming( as it seemeth) that they may take their own times and leisure for it, and in the mean time some others never possessed of the said messages, lands, Tenements or Hereditaments, haue in their default offered to compound and conclude with us for the same. Wherein our desire is, that the long and ancient possessors of the said Lands, should herein be preferred before all others. These are therefore to signify our further pleasure, That all such as be possessed of any the said messages, Lands, Tenements or Hereditaments, and do purpose or think good for their own profit, safety and quiet, to compound or conclude with our said Commissioners for any the said messages, Lands, Tenements or Hereditaments called Assarts, Wasts, or Purprestures, which are or were within the limits of any of our Forrests or chaces, shall come in and attend our said Commissioners concerning the same, betwixt this and the first of October, now next ensuing, otherwise in their default we will dispose thereof to others as we shall see cause. given at our Mannour of East-Greenwich the 12. day of May, in the 3. year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1605. ¶ A Proclamation with certain Ordinances to be observed by his majesties Subiects toward the King of spain. WHereas the Kings majesty hath always been ready to embrace and cherish such a perfect amity and friendship between him and the King of spain, and the Archdukes his good brethren, as might stand with his own Honour, and the common good of his people( For the better& more particular observation whereof, there hath been lately passed a treaty, wherein his majesties royal will and pleasure is made so notorious to the world in all things, as whosoever doth, or shall cross the sincerity of his majesties intention by any action of theirs, cannot avoid the censure of high and wilful contempt against his person and State,) Although his majesty is not ignorant, that these offences for the most part, are daily committed by such, as( partly out of their own original corruption, and partly by habit of spoil and rapine) are become so insensible or desperate of the peril they draw vpon themselves, and the imputation they cast vpon the honour of their sovereign( so precious to him) as his majesty is driven for repair thereof, to make open profession of his sincerity in this kind, more often then otherwise he would: nevertheless, his majesty having lately found by many circumstances, that most of these great faults do grow and multiply, by negligence of inferior Officers,( especially such as are resident in the Ports, and dwell in the Maritime Counties,) from whom his majesty expecteth so continual care and vigilancy( not onely out of fear of his majesties displeasure, but even for conscience sake,) as they should be rather industrious watches over those that run such wicked courses, then( in any degree) Receitors or abettors of the same, considering that those are as well accountable to God, that hinder not the evil of others( being in their power, and incident to their peculiar places and dueties) as those that are the personal Actors, or contrivers of the same: His majesty hath thought it necessary once again to publish to all persons of what place or condition soever within his majesties Dominions, these Rules and Ordinances following, as things whereunto he commandeth all persons( whatsoever) to yield their dutiful obedience, vpon peril of his heavy indignation, and the grievous pains belonging to the same. FIrst, his majesty commandeth that no Seaman or master whatsoever, shal be suffered to put himself into any warlike service at Sea of any foreign Prince or State, straitly charging all that are in any such service already, to leave the same presently and without delay, and to record their apparance in their native country, to some of his majesties Officers, vpon pain to be held and punished as Pirates. Item, If any person offending, do at any time hereafter come into any port, or place of his majesties Dominions, vpon what pretext soever: his majesty expressly chargeth all his Officers forthwith to apprehended the same, and to commit them to prison without bail or mainprize, and the Certificate thereof to bee presently returned into the admiralty Court, to the end that they may be proceeded withall, according to the laws of the realm, and the contents of his majesties former Proclamations. Item, His majesty commandeth all his Subiects,( as they will avoid his heavy indignation) to forbear to be aiding or receiving of any pirates, or such persons as shall continue in any such warlike service, as aforesaid, or any person not being a known Merchant, by contracting, buying, selling, or by vicualling of them, or any of their company, vpon pain for so doing, to be punished presently, as the principal Offenders and Pirates ought to be. Item, That no shipping, or men of war, of what estate or condition soever, going forth with commission of reprisal, or in any other warlike maner to serve at Seas, shall bee permitted in any of his majesties ports, or in the members thereof to victual or relieve themselves with any warlike provisions, thereby to enable themselves the better, to any acts of hostility at Sea against any of his majesties friends: but onely in their return homeward, if they happen to come into any of his majesties ports, that then it shall be lawful for them to relieve themselves with victual or other necessaries to serve them onely for the space of twenty dayes and no more, which is a proportion reasonable to use in trade of merchandise. Item, That all viceadmirals, Customers, or other Officers of the Ports shall not suffer any ship of his majesties Subiects to go to the Seas, before such time as they( respectively in their several ports) haue duly preached and visited the same, to the intent to stay such persons as apparently shall bee furnished for the warres, and not for merchandise or fishing. And if there shall be any maner of suspicion, that the said person( though he shall pretend to trade for merchandise or fishing) hath or may haue any other intent by his provisions or furniture, then to use the trade of merchandise or fishing, that in such case of suspicion, the officers of the Ports shall stay, and no ways suffer the same to pass to the seas, without good bands with sufficient sureties first had, to use nothing, but the lawful trade of merchandise or fishing. And if the said officers shal suffer any persons otherwise to repair to the Seas, then above is mentioned, they shall not onely answer for any piracies, which any such person shall chance hereafter to commit vpon the Seas, but shall suffer imprisonment until the offenders may be apprehended, if they shall be living. And further, as his majesty declareth and denounceth generally all such Pirates and rovers vpon the Seas to be put out of his protection, and therefore to bee lawfully pursued and punished to the uttermost extremity: so because his majesty presumeth, that all other States and persons in peace and friendship with him, will think it just and honourable to proceed towards him, with the same sincerity, which he observeth towards them: His majesty doth also hereby notify to the world, that where it falleth out that diuers of his Subiects are or may be entertained to serve at Sea under Captaines and Commanders belonging to some foreign Prince or State,( which are now or may bee in terms of hostility with any of his majesties friends) thereby imagining, when they shall( vpon occasion) enter with their ships into any of his majesties Harboroughs, that they shall bee free from any interruption, according to the liberty of Common amity and correspondency which is usually observed between Princes in such cases, onely because the Commander or captain with some few persons besides are strangers, and the rest onely discovered to be his majesties Subiects: For as much as his majesty( having made his just and equal intentions thus apparent to all men by his public Proclamations) would be loathe to frustrate the expectation of any his friends whom it doth or may concern: He doth hereby declare to all the world, that if he shall hereafter find any such fraudulent course taken, in hope colourably to avoid the true construction of his so just and necessary ordinances, the breach whereof gives cause of further trouble and jealousies to arise between his majesty and other Princes in the mutual exercise of their Subiects free trade and intercourse: he will make absolute stay of any such ships and persons, which shalbe so brought into his Ports or Harboroughs, as persons and things wholly exempted from that protection and favour, which he intendeth to maintain and afford to all others which shall not in such kind go about to abuse his majesties integrity, whose desire is to receive no better measure in any thing, then he is willing to yield to others vpon the like occasions. given at our Castle of Windsor the eight day of july, in the third year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1605. ¶ A Proclamation for proroguing the Parliament. WHereas at the rising of the late Session of our Parliament, We prorogued the same until the third day of October now next ensuing: Wee haue since considered, that the holding of it so soon, is not so convenient, as well for that the ordinary course of our Subiects, resorting to the city for their usual affairs at the term, is not for the most part until Al-hallowtide, or thereabouts: As also for that the concourse of people which followeth the assembly coming from all parts of the realm, in many whereof there may yet remain some dregs of the late Contagion, may be an occasion to revive it in that place, where our most abode is. And therefore wee haue thought it fit to prorogue it further for one moneths space, which will fall out vpon Tuesday the fifth day of november next, at which day our purpose is( God willing) to hold the same. And do hereby give notice to all, whom it concerneth, that they may frame their affairs accordingly, and attend at the said fifth day of november to that service. given at our Honour of Ampthill the 28. day of july, in the 3. year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. An. 1605. ¶ A Proclamation to redress the mis-imployment of Lands, Goods, and other things given for Charitable uses. WHereas Lands, Tenements, Hereditaments, goods, chattels, money, and other things haue been heretofore given, limited, appointed and assigned, as well by his majesties most noble Progenitors, as by sundry other well disposed persons; Some for relief of aged, impotent, and poor people, some for maintenance of sick and maimed souldiers and Mariners, schools of learning, Free-schooles, and Schollers in universities; Some for repair of Bridges, Ports, havens, Cause-wayes, Churches, Seabanks, and highways; Some for education and preferment of Orphans; Some for or towards relief, stock, or maintenance for houses of Correction; Some for marriage of poor maids; Some for supportation, aid, and help of young tradesman, Handicrafts men, and persons decayed; And others for relief, or redemption of prisoners, or captives, and for aid or ease of any poor inhabitants, concerning payment of fifteens, setting out of Souldiers, and other Taxes: Which Lands, Tenements, hereditaments, goods, chattels, money, and other things nevertheless haue not not been employed according to the charitable intent of the glovers and Founders thereof, by reason of frauds, breaches of trust, and negligences in those, that should pay, deliver, and employ the same. For redress and reformation whereof, remedy and relief haue been provided, in and by one Act of Parliament, made in the 43. year of the reign of the late queen of famous memory, Elizabeth late queen of England. By the due execution of which Act, in diuers and many parts of this realm, much good hath ensued, by the diligence and travail of diuers of our charitable and well affencted Subiects, by restoring, and true employing of diuers and many of the said Gifts and Endowments, according to the true institution, ordinance, and intention of the Founders and donors in that behalf: And much more good his majesty daily expecteth should be done in so Religious a case, acceptable to God and al good men. And whereas such as haue the care, charge and government of the colleges, walls, and houses of learning within either of the universities of Cambridge or Oxeford, or of the Colleges of Westminster, eton, or Winchester, or of any Cathedrall or Collegiate Church, were presumed by the makers of the said Act, in respect of their professions and Offices( which ought to put them in continual memory of their dueties) to need no Law to enforce them to the performance of so just and charitable a work, And therefore did by special proviso except and exempt them out of the said Act: His most excellent majesty, in his godly meditations, calling to his blessed remembrance, how good and necessary it is, That the devout, godly, and charitable intents of the said Founders and glovers should be exactly and duly performed, And nothing doubting, but that the said persons, bodies politic and Corporate so excepted, will as well in discharge of their own consciences( albeit they be not bound by the said Act) as for example to all others( that may be enforced thereby) will speedily, Christianly, and exactly perform their said duty: Yet lest that any in so great a number should be found either so remiss, as to neglect the speedy employment of the same, or so uncharitable and unconscionable, as in any sort, by fraud or devises to seek to pervert or overthrow the true institution and meaning of the said Founders or glovers; His most excellent majesty, in his Princely and royal care, That the said good and godly uses and intents may be duly and speedily employed, as is abovesaid, And that no person or persons bodies politic or Corporate( presuming to pass away with impunity) neglect, or not perform their dueties in that behalf, doth( by aduise of his privy council) straitly charge and command as well all and singular person and persons, bodies politic and Corporate, within either of the said universities of Cambridge or Oxeford, or within Westminster, eton, or Winchester, or any Cathedrall or Collegiate Church aforesaid, as all other person and persons, bodies politic and Corporate whatsoever having any Lands, Tenements, Hereditaments, profits, goods, chattels, sums of money, or other things mentioned to be given, limited, assigned or appointed to or for any of the good and charitable uses abovesaid, That they and every of them do well and faithfully employ the said Lands, Tenements, Hereditaments, Goods, Chattels, sums of money or other things, according to the true meaning, ordinance, and institution of the Founders, or glovers of the same, vpon pain of his majesties high displeasure, and of such penalties and punishments, as they shall justly deserve for contemning of his royal commandement, in a cause so just and necessary to be performed, and for their demerits in that behalf. And albeit his majesty knoweth, that for and concerning such person and persons, bodies politic and Corporate as be exempted out of the said Act, such sufficient remedy and reformation by visitations, and other lawful means may be had in the cases abovesaid: Yet forasmuch as these proceedings will require time, and draw the parties exempted out of the said Act, from their studies, and exercises of learning, and put them to no small charge; His most excellent majesty, hath for their ease and profit taken this more speedy course by these presents in maner and form abovesaid; Giuing all and singular the person and persons, bodies politic and Corporate abovesaid assuredly to know, That whosoever shall violate, or not perform his majesties royal commandement hereby published, that he, or they, or any of them shall not hope to pass away with impunity, but shall undergo such pains, penalties, and punishments, as by the severity of the laws of this realm, may be inflicted and imposed vpon so grievous and uncharitable offenders. given at his majesties Castle of Rockingham the 11. day of August, in the third year of his majesties reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1605. ¶ A Proclamation, against certain calumnious surmises concerning the Church government of Scotland. WHereas we haue ever since it pleased God to establish us in the Imperial crown of Great britain, equally regarded the good of both the late kingdoms of Scotland and England, now happily united in our Royal person in one monarchy, ever minding to maintain and continue the good and lowable customs and laws whereby each of them hath been these many ages so worthily governed: nevertheless some malicious spirits, enemies to that common tranquilitie so much desired by us( forgetting the many proofs both public and private, which we haue given of that our gracious affection to that our native and ancient country of North britain. of the freedom, liberty and privileges whereof we haue at all occasions taken so special a patrociny, as the solemn assemblies of the Estates of South britain, and Commissioners from the Estates of both Kingdoms haue been eye witnesses) haue not been ashamed to labour to pervert the minds of our best affencted subiects, That whereas the insolent and factious carriage of some of them hath merited most severe animaduersion, they would insinuate themselves in the commiseration of the multitude, by assuming unto them a glorious profession of the maintaining of the privileges and authorized discipline, intended by us( as they affirm) to be utterly overthrown by a sudden and unseasonable laying vpon them at this present the Rites, Ceremonies, and whole ecclesiastical order established in the Church of this part of our kingdom of britain. And as we haue ever carefully regarded how convenient it is to maintain every country in that form of government which is fittest and can best agree with the constitution thereof, and how dangerous alterations are without good advice and mature deliberation,& that even in matters of order of the Church, in some small islands under our Dominions, wee haue abstained from suffering any alteration: So doubt we not, but our good Subiects will never be that credulous contrary to the known truth, which hath ever appeared clearly in all our Actions, as to be in any doubt, but as in all our proceedings wee haue been a patron of Religion and Iustice,( two inseparable conseruers of all Monarchies,) So hath all our study and care ever been to retrench and reform all courses that carried any prejudice to that integrity whereat we haue ever aimed, and as by so many good laws set forth in our government, Iustice hath attained to another perfection and splendour, then it had in any our predecessors times, and with painful and unpleasant business, wee haue in the discipline of the Church taken away innumerable abuses and corruptions, which if they had not been remedied, had brought the purity of Religion in extreme danger. Yet we hope that none dare be so impudent as to affirm that by our sovereign power, or absolute commandement we did the same( although we enjoyed our authority as freely as any King or Monarch of the world) but as the disease of the civil body was ever cured by the aduise of our three Estates, So the defects of the Church by the help and counsel of those who had greatest interest in them, So as the presumption of our by-gone actions in our administration, whiles we were present, the proof of our fatherly care towards this part of our kingdom since our residence here, may be sufficient to secure us against all such malicious calumniations. And how ever in rule of policy we cannot but judge it convenient that two estates so inseparably conjoined, should be drawn to as great conformity in al things as the good of both may permit; And that no Monarchy either in civil or ecclesiastical policy hath yet attained to that perfection, that it needs no reformation, or that infinite occasions may not arise whereupon wise Princes will foresee for the benefit of their States, just cause of alteration: Yet are we and haue ever been resolved, not to make any sudden or hasty change in the government of that part of our kingdom, either civil or Ecclesiastical, but with grave advice and consent of our Estates, and the wisest and best sort of them whom it most properly concerns, much less to trouble them with any unnecessary alteration of indifferent and ceremonial matters, and that vpon such foreseen advantages, and prevention of confusion and evil to come, as the greatest enemies of all Peace, obedience to Princes, and order in all governments shal not obtrude any inconvenient to the contrary. And as by Gods holy assistance, we haue drawn that part of our kingdom out of infinite troubles, factions, and cruel barbarities, and reduced the uttermost borders and confines thereof to Gods obedience, and acknowledging of our laws;( an Estate never heard of before, since this island hath been inhabited) So by the same divine providence and our fatherly care over the whole island, we intend to transmit the same in good order, happy quietness, and flourishing policy to that posterity wherewith God hath blessed us, and after them to the worlds end; Like as for the more verification of our Honourable intention, and to stop the mouths of these unquiet spirits, raisers of that false scandal of alteration, We haue appointed a general assembly to be holden at Dundee the last Tuesday of july, whereat we expect reparation of those disorders in so far as belongeth to their censure, and to be freed in time coming of all such calumnies. given at our Honour of Hampton Court the 26. day of September, in the third year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1605. ¶ A Proclamation for the annihilating of Commissions formerly granted for taking up of Hounds, &c. WHere vpon our first coming to the succession of this kingdom, at the suit of diuers persons, who had or pretended to haue from the queen of famous memory our sister deceased, Commissions as annexed of course to several Offices which they held, for the taking up of Hounds, Greyhounds, Spaniels, and dogges of other sorts accustomend for Venery, Faulconry or other sports of Princes, Wee did renew unto them their said Commissions, and grant the like to some others who had no offices, vpon diuers suggestions made unto us, which Commissions we haue since been informed from diuers parts of our realm, that inferior Officers who haue been trusted with them, haue abused and do daily abuse, contrary to the meaning of the same, which was to be executed no further forth then the necessity of our service should require: And forasmuch also as we haue had good proof that Gentlemen& others, who delight in the like pastime of hunting and hawking, haue& will be ready at all times of their own good will and respect to our recreations, to furnish us of sufficient number of dogges of all sorts, which we shall haue cause to use, when they shall be informed that we haue need of them: We haue therefore found it unnecessary to continue the execution of any our Commissions heretofore given for that purpose, And do hereby notify the same to all our Subiects, and expressly charge and command all thosc, who haue any such Commissions or Warrants from us under our great seal, or any other our seals, that they do not onely forbear to put the same in execution from henceforth, but also do bring in and deliver up the said Commissions and Warrants, into our Chancery, or any other Office, where they haue been Sealed, within the space of twenty dayes after the publishing hereof, as they will answer the contrary at their peril. Willing also and commanding our attorney general, and all other of our counsel learned, that whensoever they shall receive information, that any person, who hath had such Commission from us, shall after the time above limited execute the same, that they do prosecute their offence therein as in case of contempt by all such ways and means, as in like case is usual. given at our Honour of Hampton Court the 27. day of September, in the third year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1605. ¶ A Proclamation for the search and apprehension of Thomas Percy. WHereas one Thomas Percy a Gentleman Pensioner to his majesty, is discovered to haue been privy to one of the most horrible Treasons that ever was contrived, that is, to haue blown up this day, while his majesty should haue been in the vpper House of the Parliament, attended with the queen, the Prince, all his nobility& the Commons, with Gun-powder( for which purpose a great quantity of Powder was conveyed into a Vault under the said Chamber, which is this morning there found) the Chamber where they should bee assembled, which Percy is sithence fled: These are to will and command all our Officers and loving Subiects whatsoever, to do that which we doubt not but they will willingly perform according to the former experience we haue had of their love and zeal toward us, That is, to make all diligent search for the said Percy, and him to apprehended by all possible means, especially to keep him alive, to the end the rest of the Conspirators may be discovered. The said Percy is a tall man, with a great broad beard, a good face, the colour of his beard and head mingled with white hairs, but the head more white then the beard, he stoupeth somewhat in the shoulders, well coloured in the face, long footed, small legged. given at our palace of Westminster, the fift day of november, in the third year of our reign of Great britain. Anno Dom. 1605. ¶ A Proclamation denouncing Thomas Percy and other his adherents to be Traitors. WHereas Thomas Percy Gentleman, and some other his Confederates, persons known to bee so utterly corrupted with the superstition of the Romish religion, as seduced with the blindness thereof, and being other wise of lewd life, insolent disposition, and for the most part of desperate estate, haue been discovered to haue contrived the most horrible treason that ever entred into the hearts of men, against our Person, our Children, the whole nobility, clergy,& Commons in Parliament assembled, which howsoever cloaked with zeal of superstitious religion, aimed indeed at the subversion of the State, and to induce an horrible confusion of all things, In which they and all others of bankrupt and necessitous estate, might haue those of better ability for a pray to repair their beggarly Fortunes, and haue proceeded so far some of them in their devilish attempts, as to assemble in troops in our Counties of warwick and Worcester, where they haue broken up a Stable, and taken out Horses of diuers Noblemen and Gentlemen, within our town of warwick, And no doubt but do proceed further in their purposes, seeking to raise some Rebellion in our realm, and will with many feigned& false allegations seek to seduce diuers of our subiects, especially with show of religion: Although wee are by good experience so well persuaded of the loyalty of diuers of our Subiects( though not professing true Religion) that they do as much abhor this detestable conspiracy conspiracy as ourself, and will be ready to do their best endeavours( though with expense of their blood) to suppress all Attemptors against our safety and the quiet of our State, and to discover whomsoever they shall suspect to be of rebellious or traitorous disposition: Yet haue we thought good by this our open declaration, to give warning and advertisement to all our Subiects whatsoever, of that horrible purpose of Percies and his Complices, and to distinguish between all others, calling themselves catholics, and these detestable Traitors: And therefore do denounce and publish all the persons hereunder name, Adherents to Percy, to be traitors known, and that all others are in the same case, who shall in any wise either receive, abette, cherish, entertain, or adhere unto them, or not do their best endeavours to apprehended and take them. wherefore we will and command all our Lieutenants, Deputy lieutenants, Sheriffes, Iustices of Peace, Maiors, bailiffs, Constables, and all other our Officers, Ministers and loving Subiects to take knowledge thereof, and to do their best duties herein, as they will answer the contrary at their uttermost peril: Not doubting, but that they all, without regard of their pretence of Religion, will with one heart and will, employ themselves for the suppressing, apprehending, detecting, and discovering of all sorts of persons any ways likely to bee privy to a Treason so hateful to God and men, and implying in it the utter subversion of this realm, and dignity thereof. And where we do hear that many do spread abroad, that this conspiracy was intended onely for matter of Religion, and that foreign Princes our neighbours are interested therein, which rumors are divulged by busy persons both to scandalise the amity wherein we stand with all Christian Princes and States, and to give unto lewd persons hope that they shall be backed in their enterprises by great Potentates: We do delare, that we cannot admit so inhuman a thought, as to conceive that any Prince, of what Religion soever, could give ear to so savage and barbarous and imagination: And that by such examinations as hitherto haue been taken, we find them all, and their ministers clear from any suspicion of privity thereunto; whereof one infallible Argument to us is, That all the Ministers of foreign Princes, which are now here, made earnest suit to us to bee present in the place that day. And therefore wee do admonish and charge all our Subiects, that they shall not speak of any the Princes our neighbours, or their ambassadors, otherwise then reverently, vpon pain of our displeasure, and to be punished as persons seeking the disturbance of the Peace wherein we live with our said neighbours. given at our palace of Westminster, the 7. day of november, in the third year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1605. Thomas Percy Gentleman. Robert Catesby Esquire. Ambrose Rookewood of Coldham Hall in suffolk Esquire. Thomas Winter Gentleman, brother of Robert Winter of Huddington in the county of Worcester. Edward Grant of Northbrooke in the County of Warwick, gent. John Wright. Christopher Wright. Rober Ashfield seruant to Robert Catesby Esquire. ¶ A Proclamation, promising reward to him that shall apprehended Tho. Percy. FOrasmuch as it appeareth now in part, who were the Complices of Percy in his detestable Treason published by our former Proclamations, in their assembling together to move our people to Rebellion, Although perhaps many of them did never understand the secret and depth of his abominable purpose; and that amongst those which do flee for fear of our power, and for the guiltiness of their offence, Wee are informed that the said Percy is: Wee haue thought it good to make known to all men, both that we put great odds between his part of the Treason and other mens; And also, that forasmuch as it importeth greatly that he should be taken, to the end that by his confessions, the whole plot and the partners thereof might be discovered, and from himself the horrible purpose opened, which it is likely that many whom he hath seduced did never understand, And also that by the exemplary punishment of him, others be terrified from such Treasons, as tend not onely to our destruction, but to the confusion and utter dissolution of the State: If any person shall apprehended the said Percy, and bring him to us or any our Officers alive; if that person be an offeder and paxtner with him in his Treason in whatsoever degree, we will not onely give him pardon of his life, lands, and goods, but also bestow on him a reward of the value of one Thousand pounds at the least. And if he be no offendor, yet shall he haue that or a greater reward. And for their assurance we do hereby give our pricely word. given at our palace of Westminster the 8. day of november, in the third year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1605. ¶ A Proclamation for the searching for, and apprehending of Robert Winter, and Stephen Littleton. WHere amongst other persons discovered to be confederates in the late horrible Treason, for the destruction of our person and the whole Estates of the realm, one Robert Winter Esquire, is known to be a principal, who is fled for the same, and being not found among the company taken and defeated by the sheriff of our county of Worcester, doth lurk in some places of our realm: Although we doubt not, by that experience which in this cause we haue had of the diligence of our ministers in the apprehending of al persons, whom they shall haue cause to suspect; Yet because the said Winter is unknown to many, we haue thought it convenient to publish a description of him, to the end he may the sooner be found by those who shall lay wait for him, And to will and command all our Officers, ministers and loving Subiects whatsoever, to make all diligent search for the said Winter, and him to apprehended by all possible means, especially to do their best to keep him alive, to receive condign punishment for his detestable crime. The like diligence we do also will and require them to use in the apprehending of Stephen Littleton Gentleman, whose description is also hereunder written. given at our palace of Westminster the 18. day of november, in the 3. year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1605. Robert Winter is a man of mean stature, rather low then otherwise, square made, somewhat stooping, near forty yeeres of age, his hair and beard brown, his beard not much, and his hair short. Stephen Litleton is a very tall man, swarthy of complexion, of brown coloured hair, no beard or little, about 30. yeeres of age. ¶ A Proclamation, warranting Sheriffes to prosecute Rebels into other Counties. WHereas the custody and safe keeping of our several Counties and Shires of our realm of England, are by our ancient Common laws committed to several Sheriffes, being ancient conservators of the Peacr, and ministers of Iustice within the same, who by force of their Offices may assemble, and take the power and strength of our said Counties and Shires committed to their charge, not onely for the due execution of Iustice, but also for the preservation of our Peace, and the speedy and timely dissolution and suppressing of all Insurrections, Rebellions, outrageous Riots, routs, and other exorbitant and unlawful assemblies, to the end that such dangerous attempts might be suppressed in their beginnings, and our loving Subiects live and exercise their scuerall vocations in all peace& plenty; The good effect of the execution of which laws hath well appeared, in that the most detestable and diabolical Rebellion of Percy and his complices in our Counties of warwick, Worcester, and Stafford,( that had been so secretly contrived, and so long in hatching,) was by the peaceable ministers of our laws, and by due execution of their Offices, without any extraordinary power or forces, most loyally, resolutely, and speedily suppressed: And whereas some question or scruple hath been( as we are informed) moved amongst some of the vulgar, Whether any of our Sheriffes, may, with the power of their several Counties or Shires, in pursuit of Rebels and Traitors, follow them into any other County, Albeit by the laws of this realm, Sheriffes, as it falleth out in daily experience, in private cases between party and party( matters of no such eminent and public danger and consequence as this is) justly and lawfully do the like, whereof we presume few or none can be ignorant: Yet we meaning to give satisfaction to all, do hereby publish and declare, That such pursuit of Rebels and Traitors into other Counties, is not onely in such cases lawful and justifiable, But, that if any of our Subiects being thereunto required by any of our Sheriffes, shall not follow and assist them in such pursuit, that they are to be severely and sharply punished for their high contempt and offence in that behalf. But if in such pursuit the sheriff of the same county of Shire( whereunto such Rebels or Traitors shall fly or escape) shall also come with the power of his County before such Rebels or Traitors be apprehended or suppressed, Then the sheriff so pursuing from any other County or Shire shall assist and join with the sheriff in his proper County or Shire, for the apprehension or suppressing of such Rebels and Traitors, And if such Rebels or Traitors shall fly or escape into any house or other place of strength and defence, and shal not yield themselves being thereunto required by the sheriff or any of his company that so shall pursue them, but obstinately and wilfully make resistance, That then it shall be lawful for every such sheriff so pursuing with such power& strength, as he shall collect, or shal assist him, to beat down, burn, or otherwise wast any such house or place of defence for the better apprehension or suppressing of such Rebels and Traitors. And albeit we desire that such industry and care may be taken, as that such offenders may be apprehended alive, Yet we let it be known, that if otherwise through their rebellious obstinacy and resistance, such Rebellion cannot be suppressed, That it shall be lawful and justifiable in those cases of necessity, for the sheriff and his company assisting him, to kill and destroy such Traitors and Rebels. And as the faithful endeavours of our loving Subiects with such alacrity as they haue shewed in this late Rebellion, is very acceptable unto us; So if in any such case any person or persons shall under pretence of our public service, maliciously and unjustly seek to reuenge any private quarrel, we let them know that they shall not escape without severe and condign punishments according to their demerits in that behalf. given at our Palace of Westminster, the 19. day of november, in the third year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1605. ¶ A Proclamation for the apprehension and discovery of John Gerrard, Henry Garnet, and Oswald Tesmond. IT is so manifest to the world by all our proceedings hitherto towards those Subiects of ours, which do profess the Romish religion, how slow we haue been to extend the severity of our laws( in matter of life) even against the Romish Priests themselves, who seditiously incite and warrant the ignorant Papists to forsake their natural love and loyalty; as we assure ourselves that all which wee shall now require hereby at the hands of our people, will appear most just by the laws of nature, and by the strait bonds of our peoples affections to us their sovereign, and to their country( although there were no such certain positive laws as there are, so straitly to enjoin the same, and under so heavy pains.) And therefore seeing it is now made plain and evident by diuers examinations of many of those prisoners that haue been the principal Conspirators in the barbarous practise to destroy( with powder) our own Person and posterity, with the whole State of the realm in Parliament assembled, that those three Iesuites under name, John Gerrard aliâs brook, Henry Garnet aliâs Walley, aliâs Darcy, aliâs Farmer, Oswald Tesmond aliâs Greenway, haue all three peculiarly been practisers in the same; and being thoroughly persuaded that( in this treason so foul and odious to every good Subiects ears and hearts) we shall find no man so blind or impious, as for any distinction whatsoever, to forbear to do their uttermost dueties for the discovery and apprehension of them that haue so extraordinarily sinned against God, and betrayed us: We haue now thought good( in that consideration the rather) not onely to make known to all men, the bloody and cruel crimes whereof these particular persons are guilty, but also to declare to all our Subiects hereby, That although the conformity of all our Subiects to our commandements herein, shall be no more then that which we do assuredly promise ourselves from such loving people, of whose fidelity wee haue had so extraordinary experience in like cases; nevertheless we are resolved, that whosoever shall be found to haue been the particular occasion or instrument of their apprehensions, or any of them, shall be particularly rewarded by us, as diuers haue been already, that haue shewed their zeal and forwardness for the prosecution and apprehension of some of these Conspirators: Adding thereunto this further protestation, That if it shall appear by any confessions hereafter, that any persons within our Dominions or Countreys( after this declaration of these mens guiltiness in crimes so far beyond example) shall presume to be a Harbourer, maintainer, or Concealer of any of these three persons, or shall not do his best for their discovery and apprehension, That we are resolved( without hope of mercy or forgiveness) to suffer the laws of the realm, to be most severely executed vpon them, as vpon those whom wee esteem to be no less pernicious to our Person, State and Common wealth, then those that haue been Actors and concealers of the main treason itself. given at our palace of Westminster, the 15. day of january, in the third year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1605. Description of the several parties above name. John Gerrard, aliâs brook, of stature tall, and according thereunto well set: his complexion swart or blackish: his face large: his cheeks sticking out, and somewhat hollow underneath the cheeks: the hair of his head long, if it be not cut off: his beard cut close, saving little moustaches, and a little tuft under his lower lip: about forty yeeres old. HEnry Garnet, aliâs Walley, aliâs Darcy, aliâs Farmer, of a middling stature, full faced, fat of body, of complexion faire: his forehead high on each side, with a little thin hair coming down vpon the midst of the forepart of his head: the hair of his head and beard grisled: of age between fifty and threescore: his beard on his cheeks cut close, on his chin but thin, and somewhat short: his gate upright, and comely for a fat man. OSwald Tesmond, aliâs Greenway, of mean stature, somewhat gross: his hair black: his beard bushy and brown, something long, a broad forehead, and about forty yeeres of age. ¶ A Proclamation touching a seditious rumour suddenly raised. WHere a seditious rumour hath been raised this morning, that some ill accident should bee befallen our person, and thereupon the people thereabouts haue been raised in arms by direction from Constable to Constable, but with uncertain knowledge from whom the first ground should be raised, or by what Warrant; Which we hold to be done purposely by some tumultuous spirits, to draw our Subiects together in arms, to what intent we know not, until further examination may make it manifest; Wee do hereby make it known to all our loving Subiects, that( God be thanked) we remain in good and perfect health: And do require them to contain themselves from assemblies, or gathering together in arms or in conventicles; Assuring themselves, that after due examination of this seditious Rumour, we will make known to them the Authors and intent thereof. And whosoever shall not obey this our commandement, we shall hold them for seditious, and breakers of our peace. And do command all our Lieutenants, deputy Lieutenants, Iustices of Peace, Maiors, Sheriffes, and all other our Officers, ministers and loving Subiects, to do their dueties in containing our people within their due obedience, and to advertise us, or our privy Counsel, of all disturbers thereof. given at our Palace of Westminster, the 22. day of March, in the third year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1605. ANNO QVARTO jacobi REGIS. ¶ A Proclamation declaring what flags South and North Britaines shall bear at Sea. WHereas some difference hath arisen between our Subiects of South and North britain traueyling by Seas, about the bearing of their flags: For the avoiding of all such contentions hereafter, We haue with the aduise of our council ordered; That from henceforth all our Subiects of this Ile and kingdom of Great britain, and the members thereof, shall bear in their Mainetop the read cross, commonly called S. Georges cross, and the White cross commonly called S. Andrewes cross, joined together according to a form made by our Heralds, and sent by us to our admiral to be published to our said Subiects: And in their Foretop our Subiects of South britain shall wear the read cross onely as they were wont, and our Subiects of North britain in their Fore-top the White cross onely as they were accustomend. Wherefore we will and command all our Subiects to be conformable and obedient to this our Order, and that from henceforth they do not use to bear their flags in any other sort, as they will answer the contrary at their peril. given at our Palace of Westminster the twelfth day of April, in the 4. year of our reign of Great britain, France, and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1606. ¶ A Proclamation for prevention of future abuses in purveyance. such is the zeal and inward affection which we haue found in all sorts of our loving and loyal Subiects of this our kingdom, as we are content to aclowledge, that( besides the Christian care which all Kings are bound by the Law of God and nature to take over all their people) our own sense and apprehension of their complaints, doth daily increase with the feeling we haue of their honest merits. In which respect, having taken some more particular pains in the examination of diuers circumstances, then is common to many princes; we did not only command all our Officers to be very diligent to try out and punish the offences of Purueyours with all severity, but to fall into serious consideration, how all occasion may bee taken away hereafter, whereby those inferior Ministers, which are used therein, may make themselves( under colour of our prerogative royal) the instruments of corruption and rapine: A matter most odious to our own nature, who haue always more desire to give then to receive from any our Subiects, except it be where necessity enforceth us thereunto, even for the support and preservation of that state and dignity wherein almighty God hath placed vs. For better assurance whereof, We haue thought it very convenient at this time, to take some occasion in this maner to express the fruits of our care and consideration concerning this particular point of Purueyances. FIrst, when wee were informed that some inferior ministers had presumed to go so far beyond their Commission, as they haue adventured not onely to take timber trees growing( which being parcel of our Subiects inheritance were never intended by us to be taken) without the good will and full contentment of the Owners, but haue accustomend also to take up far greater quantities of provisions for our house and stable, then ever came or were needful for our use( as most especially in wood, coal, hay, and carriage vpon our progress journeys or removes:) Although we haue no cause to doubt, but that our Officers of our Green-cloth haue been and will be ever most ready to search out and punish all such offences vpon just complaints, Yet we did not leave the pursuit and trial thereof to them onely, but did particularly direct our Attorney general to inform against them on our behalf in our Court of starchamber, where some of them vpon their confession, haue already received( by censure of that Court) condign punishment by Fine, imprisonment, pillory, and losing of their ears, And some others seeking to save themselves by denying that wherewith they were charged, do still remain under examination to receive the like punishment, vpon due proof thereof to be made against them. By which example wee persuade ourselves, that all honest men will rest so well assured of our good intention to reform abuses( even to their greatest satisfaction when there is just occasion) as they will carefully and willingly. continue their obedience and conformity to those courses for furnishing such provisions as are necessary for us which were taken by the consent of most of the principal Gentlemen, and good Patriots in several Counties, And whereof above sixteen Shires haue had continuance by the space of forty yeeres, Especially considering how many good, and wise Princes of this realm, that haue gone before us, where such agreements haue not been made, haue held themselves to their right of purveyance, which is one of the most ancient flowers of the crown in our Progenitors, and must descend to our posterity, whom God( we hope) both hath, and will so far enable with his blessings, and graces, as they shall prove themselves no less able, nor worthy then any others, to enjoy and preserve the right, of a just and lawful monarchy. Wherein, because all wise men know sufficiently, that wheresoever there must be a trust in vulgar persons, it is not possible to keep their actions from errors, and abuses; We haue thought it fit for a further demonstration of our great care to prevent the same, to publish that which followeth, as well to terrify the evil, as to comfort the well affencted, whose just grief shall ever lye as near us, as our own. BE it therefore known hereby, that we do give express charge and commandement, that none of our Purueyours, nor other of our Officers or ministers whatsoever, that now are, or hereafter shall be, or any of them, or any of their deputies or seruants, shall take for us, or in our name, or to or for any use whatsoever, any timber trees of any our Subiects, growing in any place, or places whatsoever, without the express consent, and agreement of the owner thereunto had and obtained. Of which particular abuses we cannot conceal our mislike, both in respect of the injury done thereby to that laudable policy of the realm for maintaining of timber,& also in the particular feeling we haue in our own affections how grievous it is for any man to behold the fruits, and honest pleasures of his own labours or his ancestors, defaced and spoiled by the lewd& ravenous malice of base companions. SEcondly, because we haue considered that our Subiects may be sometime over burdened( against the meaning of our principal Officers) by the unreasonable taking of wood, coal, hay, oats and such like provisions in time of progress: We do expressly charge and command all our Officers, ministers, or any of their deputies and seruants, to forbear to take either wood, coal, hay, or oats in larger proportion, then shall bee found necessary to bee expended for the service of our house and stable. ANd further our pleasure is, that none of our Purueyours or takers of carriage, or Cart takers( for the time being) nor any of their deputies or seruants, nor any other of our Officers or ministers whatsoever, shal vpon our journeys, removes, or progress, take up any carts or carriages for any Noble man, gentleman, artisan, or others whatsoever, not being our seruants in ordinary, and necssarily for that time to attend vs. In which point that it may the better appear, how sparing it shalbe used, we do expressly command, that there be no more carriages taken, then shall bee particularly comprised in a list, which shall be made for that purpose, and signed with the hands of the principal officers of our Chamber, household, and stable: And for the rest, whatsoever they be, either noble men, gentlemen, artisans, or others that do follow us, our express pleasure and commandement is, That they from henceforth at all times hereafter provide their carriages( such as they shall like to haue or use) at their own proper costs and charges, and by their own means, without using in any sort either our name or authority, or any of our Purueyours, or ny of their deputies or seruants, for, or about the same. ANd we do withall hereby signify unto all and every our purveyors, their deputies and seruants, and all others that may receive any order from them touching purveyance of carriages, or the making of any the provisions aforesaid for any our progress, journeys, or removes, That if in any point therein they do carry themselves contrary to this our express prohibition in that behalf made, that for such their offences they shall be proceeded against in the severest maner, and receive such exemplary punishment, as by our laws may be inflicted vpon them. ANd we do straitly charge our principal Officers of our household and stable, and other officers of our Greencloth, vpon due information, and proof made before them of any our ministers offending in any the kindes before specified, to deliver the said offenders into the hands of some of the Iustices of Peace of the said shire or county, where the said offence, or offences were committed, to the end they may proceed against them in as severe maner, as the Law and Iustice of our realm requireth, or alloweth. And if any of the offences aforesaid shall seem fitter to be proceeded withall in the Court of star chamber, then in the Counties where the offences shall bee committed; Then we do straitly charge and command our attorney general for the time being, that if information be given unto him by any our Iustices of Peace of the misdemeanour of any person so delivered, to see the said offender prosecuted, and duly punished. provided always, that our meaning is not hereby to prohibit any our Iustices of Peace, vpon just complaints of any of our loving Subiects, to examine, to bind over to the Sessions, or( if need require it) to commit any such offenders in their several Shires: And then, certifying the cause of such commitments to the Officers of our Greenecloth, to proceed( vpon good proofs) in further punishment of the faults, according to the laws of the realm. ANd We do in like manner expressly prohibit and forbid all persons, after the end of this Session of Parliament, to make and purveyance without Commission for every several Shire, containing the kindes, and quantities( so near as may bee) which they are to purvey in such a Shire. And that to the same Commissions blank Scedules bee annexed, which cannot bee taken off, wherein they shall truly, in presence of such high Constable, or Constables, petty Constable, or Constables, Headborough, or Headboroughes, as shall( by precept to him or them directed) bee privy to the delivery of any the provisions in the said Commission specified, enter their takings presently, whereunto the said Constable, &c. shall subscribe their names or sign manuel. And that the Owners or Sellers, if they will, may presently likewise subscribe their names or marks to the same. And that when they haue finished their takings in any such Shire, That then they deliver a Duplicate of the said Schedule containing their takings, and a true copy of their proportions appoynted, to one of the next Iustices of Peace, to the end it may appear that their takings exceed not their Warrants. furthermore, where We haue been informed, that diuers complaints haue been made of some hard course taken by our Officers of our Greene-cloth towards diuers of our loving Subiects, at such times as they haue informed against Purueyours and such like Officers vpon abuses; Although Wee haue no doubt, that any of our Officers will in any such case so much forget their respect to Iustice or duty to us( the principal Officers being counsellors of State, and the rest Knights and Gentlemen of good quality and discretion) yet to the intent our people may be satisfied that we haue no purpose to suffer any interruption of Iustice, under pretext of our authority; We do hereby declare it, and so is our will and pleasure, that in case any of our loving Subiects shall be imprisoned for so doing, that the Iudges of our High Court at Westminster shall award a Habeas corpus for their relief, according to our laws. ANd for the better satisfaction of our people, of whose loyalty and inward affections we stand so much assured, as they will not repined at any provision delivered by virtue of our Commission, if it may appear to come to our use, our will& pleasure therefore is, that our Iustices of Peace in every several County or country where any provision shalbe taken by vertur of our Commissions, shall at their quarter Sessions take particular reckoning of the high and petty Constables of all warrants coming unto them from any minister of ours, together with what provisions or carriages they haue delivered unto them by virtue of our Commission, the true and just Certificate whereof they shal half yearly at the least, under the hands and seals of some of them certify to our Treasurer and controller, or other our Officers of Greencloth, who presently by the parcels and accounts of our house shall duly examine the receipt from such purveyors. And if it be found by Certificate of the said Iustices or otherwise, that they haue taken more then they haue delivered for our use or expense, unless it shall appear to haue had just cause of miscarrying by the way: then we require our Officers of household, vpon pain of our displeasure, without delay to sand the party so offending into the County where such offence or offences shal be committed, there to receive punishment of life and member as the good and ancient laws of our realm haue formerly ordained and appointed. furthermore, as we did in our return out of Wiltshire, being our first progress, vpon the examination of some abuses, draw down the number of our carriages to such a proportion as two full third parts was diminished of the numbers before time used: even so at this time, because we conceive that the matter of carriages is the greatest grievance, And that it is oftentimes no less trouble to our people to come empty with their carts to Court to take in carriages, then to convey them; We do therefore hereby also command all persons used in the service of Cart-taking for our removes, to forbear to take either more carriages then are of necessity to be used, or to warn or charge carts in any city, town, Burrow, or hundred above fourteen miles at any time distant from the place where they are to receive their loading, vpon pain of losing their Office and service, and such further punishment as is to be inflicted vpon them for their contempts. And we do likewise require all high Constables, vpon receipt of any Warrants from any our Cart-takers, their seruants or deputies for warning of Carts within their hundreds, that they presume not to warn any but in such part of the hundreth as shalbe within compass of the fourteen miles above specified, vpon pain of the penalties before expressed; unless it shall appear by the iudgement and Order of the Iustices of that County, or six of them at the least, that it shalbe more for the ease of the country to enlarge the extent of the number of miles aforesaid. further, wee charge and command the purveyors of our Woodyard and Scullary, vpon taking of any proportion of Wood or coal for our provision, not to meddle or assume authority unto themselves for warning any Carts for carriage of the same, but by direction of two at the least of our Iustices of Peace next adjoining of that County, where such Wood, or coals shal be taken, to the end the same may be performed with the greatest ease to our loving Subiects, vpon pain of losing their Office, and such further punishment, as their contempt shall require: Not doubting, but those Iustices, which are made privy to their Commission, will use such care, and expedition at all times, for the furtherance of our service, and for the good and quiet of their country, as wee shall not be forced by their remissness, to return the wonted authority into the hands of the purveyors. ANd lastly, as a further demonstration of our inward affection to our people, notwithstanding our ancient Right and prerogative of purveyance so long continued, we haue caused some of our privy council,( together with our chief Officers of the Greenecloth) to fall into present consideration how to provide( as soon as may be) some such convenient number of Carts, wholly to be maintained vpon our own charge, as may serve us whensoever we shall make any sudden remove, or private journeys for our exercise, and recreation, without being forced to use any Commission, or to put the Countreys to any charge for furnishing us vpon any of those uncertain occasions. given under our sign manuel at our Palace of Westminster the 23. day of April, in the fourth year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1606. ¶ A Proclamation, charging all Iesuites, Seminaries &c. to depart the land. WE do not doubt but that all our Subiects( embracing the true Religion professed in this Church of England,& by Law established within this realm) are thoroughly persuaded of our constant resolution for the maintenance and defence of the same; Not onely because we found it here so many yeeres settled, and blessed of God in the long peace and prosperity of our people, wherewith it hath been accompanied since the first setting the same free from the Romish servitude, But also and chiefly, because our own knowledge and understanding( illuminated by the Spirit of God) doth assure us that the same is agreeable to his divine word, and to the doctrine of the primitive Church. Of which our purpose and determination, besides all other our former proceedings( since our entry into this kingdom) we haue given a new and certain demonstration by our consent to such two Acts, as haue been passed in this Session of our Parliament, both tending to prevent the dangers, and diminish the number of those, who adhering to the profession of the Church of Rome, are blindly lead( together with the superstition of their Religion) both into some points of doctrine, which cannot consist with the loyalty of Subiects towards their Prince, and oft times into direct actions of Conspiracies and conjurations against the State wherein they live, as hath most notoriously appeared by the late most horrible and almost incredible conjuration, to blow up us, our children, and all the three Estates in Parliament assembled. All which notwithstanding, and although by these late Treasons above mentioned, contrived and pursued( as they haue been) with the privity and warrant of so many of the principal Priests of that profession,& grounded vpon points of doctrine,( in that Church held and maintained) there is sufficient cause( if there had never been any other enterprise vpon the same ground) to justify the proceedings of us and our said Parliament, in the making and execution of these last, and all other former Statutes, tending to the same end: nevertheless, seeing the sovereign care appertaineth to us, who haue the sovereign power of Iustice in our hand, and the supreme dispensation of clemency, and moderation of the severity of our laws is likewise as proper to us to use, whensoever we shall find it reasonable, the same deserving to be no less allowed in us( being in our Dominions Gods Lieutenant) then it is praised in him, among whose highest Titles it is, That his Mercy is above all his works: Although both Natures just offence might be excused, if we suffered ourself to be transported with such passions, as so vile and barbarous provocations do excite in human sense, And our providence would be also commended, if we did with all violence endeavour to extirpate out of our realm, not onely such as were guilty of the attempt, but all others that gave any cause to be suspected of bearing favour to it, or of whom there is any just occasion to conceive that they may be corrupted with the like poison: Yet cannot any provocation or other respect, extinguish in us so utterly the exercise of that clemency, whereunto Nature hath so far inclined us, as we can be withholden from renewing some course of lenity again in some particulars, so far forth as it may be without the peril of our Religious and loyal people, that concur with us in the profession of the Gospel. And therefore to the end we might not haue any further subject ministered unto us, whereby we must be provoked to execute Iustice vpon those, who( being called Religious persons, and professed in diuers orders of their Church, as Priests, jesuits, Seminaries, and such like) haue not onely declared themselves to be the stirrers up of our people to disobedience, But when we were pleased formerly out of our mere Grace to signify our royal pleasure for their departure out of this realm unpunished, haue few or none of them taken hold of our Gracious favour, but wilfully, and( as it were) in scorn of the penalties which our just laws could impose, haue still continued their former practices, and contempt in their returns: As we do purpose to sand away out of our realm even those of that condition, whose lives are in our hands to take every hour, if we were so disposed,( excepting onely those that are guilty of that horrible Treason;) So we haue once again resolved, and for the last warning do denounce it by these presents,( according to the tenor of our laws, and our former Proclamations) That they shall all of them, that is to say, jesuits, Seminaries, Friers, or any other Priest whatsoever, Regular or Secular, being made by authority of the church of Rome, depart out of this realm of England and Wales, before the first day of August next ensuing, vpon pain to incur the uttermost danger of our said laws. And for their better means to depart according to this our pleasure, we do hereby signify to them, That if at any time before the said first day of August, they or any of them, excepting Gerrard or Greenwell, shall resort to any Port town of our realm, and there declare himself to the Magistrate of the said town, or other Officers of our Port, that he is a Priest of any sort whatsoever, and that he is there to take shipping for his passage, they shall suffer him or them quietly to depart, and shal see them shipped and sent away, and give them therein furtherance for their departure. And because there may be some Priests in hold in diuers parts of our realm, not yet known to us, We do will and command all Sheriffes, bailiffs, and Keepers of prisons, within twenty dayes after the publishing of this Proclamation, to advertise our privy counsel, or some of them, of the names of all such priests, jesuits, Seminaries, or of any other sort that are in their custody, and by whom, and for what cause they were committed, to the end that thereupon we may give order for their transportation. And now least happily this unexpected course of our so oft reiterated clemency after such an example, should either serve to encourage the Priests themselves to affront our Iustice, or discourage those good and dear Subiects of ours, whose danger and destruction wee know shall never bee severed from our own, whensoever any such projects shall be in motion; We do hereby protest, that this is done with no other purpose, but to avoid the effusion of blood, and by banishing them presently out of our Dominions, to remove all cause of such severity, as we shall otherwise be constrained to use towards the other sort of our people, as long as those Seducers shall haue opportunity to betray their consciences, and corrupt their loyalty, towards whom our affections do so vary with the object, as we confess, that we desire still to make it appear in the whole course of our government, that we are far from accounting all those Subiects disloyal, that are that way affencted, and that we do distinguish of such as be carried onely with blind zeal, and such as sin out of presumption, and under pretext of zeal make it their onely occupation to persuade disobedience, and to practise the ruin of this Church and Common-wealth. And therefore as after times must give us trial of all mens behaviour, so must all men expect that their own deserts must be the onely measure of their fortunes at our hands, either one way or other. given at our Mannour of Greenwich the 10. day of june, in the 4. year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1606. ¶ A Proclamation for the search and apprehension of certain Pirates. WHereas it hath appeared unto us by sundry credible informations and certificates from foreign parts, That Richard Gifford captain of a Ship or Flyboat, lately called the Fortune, and Richard Lux Master of a Ship called the Hope well, William Mellon, humphrey Rastoll, Thomas Better, Robert Gyles, John Thomas, John borage, Baldwin Barber, Henry Radcliffe, John Banister, William Smith, with diuers others their Complices, and associates, serving as Mariners or Souldiers in the said ships, haue under colour of friendship and peaceable traffic, committed most foul outrages, murders, spoils and depredations within the favourits, and Mediterranean Seas, as well within the ports as without, to the great offence of all our friends, to the extreme loss and hurt of our Merchants trading those parts, both in their persons and goods, and to the great displeasure of God and men; We of our Princely care for the administration of Iustice( the main pillar of our Estate) do with no less zeal, as well for the satisfaction of foreign Princes, as for the example of others in like cases offending, intend to prosecute them, and all their Abettors, Complices and Accessaries with the greatest severity of our laws in that case provided: And therefore we will and straitly command all and every our Officers and loving Subiects, that immediately after the sight of this present Proclamation, they and every of them do make diligent search and inquiry in all places as well exempt as not exempt, for the said persons, and all and every of them, and them, or any of them so found, to apprehended and commit to the next Gaole, there to be detained until our high admiral, or his Lieutenant the judge of the high Court of the admiralty, vpon notice given unto either of them of the persons so committed, shall take order in that behalf. And moreover our pleasure is, that no person or persons whatsoever, shall witting or wilfully receive, conceal, harbour, entertain or lodge the said pirates and murtherers, or any of them, or any of their said Complices or Associates into their house or houses, after the sight or knowledge of this proclamation( knowing them by pregnant circumstances, credible informations or otherwise to be the persons before name) vpon pain to every such person and persons so receiving, concealing, harbouring, entertaining or lodging any of the said Pirates and murtherers, or any of their complices, of death and forfeiture of all their lands, goods and chattels, according to the laws and Statutes in that case provided. given at our Mannour of Greenwich the 13. day of june, in the fourth year of our reign of Great britain, France& Ireland. Anno Dom. 1606. ¶ A Proclamation touching Passengers. WHereas in the first Session of our Parliament holden at Westminster the nineteenth day of March in the year of our reign of England, France and Ireland the first, and of Scotland the seven and thirtieth; It was amongst other things enacted, That no woman nor any child under the age of one and twenty yeeres( except sailors or Shipboyes, or Apprentice, or Factor of some merchant in trade of merchandise) should be permitted to pass over the Seas, except the same should be by licence of us, our Heires or Successors, or some six or more of our privy council, thereunto first had under their hands, vpon pain that the Officers of the Port that should willingly or negligently suffer any such to pass, or should not enter the names of such Passengers licenced, should forfeit his Office, and all his goods and chattels, And vpon pain that the Owner of any Ship or vessel, that should witting or willingly carry any such over the Seas, without licence as is aforesaid, should forfeit his Ship or vessel, and all the tackle, And every master or master, of or in any such Ship or vessel, offending as is aforesaid, should forfeit all their goods, and suffer imprisonment by the space of twelve moneths without bail, or mainprize, As by the said act of Parliament amongst other things may more at large appear: And whereas many such our Subiects, That is to say, Women and persons under the age of 21. yeeres, haue from time to time just and necessary causes and occasions to go and pass over the Seas, In which cases for every such women and persons under the age of twenty and one yeres to obtain such licence, either from ourselves, or from six of our said privy counsel according to the said Law, is very inconvenient, and almost impossible; We haue therefore thought convenient, for the ease as well of ourself and our said counsel, as of such of our Subiects as are of the condition mentioned in the said Act of Parliament, to grant our Commission to persons of trust in certain Ports of our realm, lying most apt and convenient for passage, That is to say, London, the Cinque Ports, Harwich, Yarmouth, Hull, and Waymouth, to licence such women and persons under the age of 21. yeeres, as shall haue just cause to pass out of our realm, vpon due examination had of them, to pass without peril to themselves, or the Officers of our said Ports, Notwithstanding the said Statute or any thing therein contained. And wee haue thought it fit to give public knowledge hereof to all our Subiects, and to all our Officers whom it may concern, to the end they may know what shal be lawful for them to do in those cases. given at the Castle of Farneham the 23. day of August, in the fourth year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1606. ¶ A Proclamation for the adjournment of part of Michaelmas term. THe Kings most excellent majesty, finding that the infection of the plague is at this present in sundry places of the city of London, and near adjoining to the same, though not( God be thanked) with the mortality of great numbers; yet so dispersed in diuers of the best and most open streets of the said city, as do give just cause to doubt, that the contagion thereof, by great resort of people, might be further spread, as well in the city, as into other parts of the realm, whereby both danger might ensue to his royal Person, the queen his dearest wife, and his children, and to his most loving Subiects repairing thither for their Suits and causes, and likewise by such increase of the infection, if it should happen( which God forbid) the next Session of his Highnesse Parliament, appoynted for the great and weighty affairs of the realm, might be prorogued: His majesty, for these necessary considerations, and hoping that the infection will, by the goodness of almighty God, with the coldness of the year, and such wholesome Orders as are taken in his said city, the rather cease by the adjournment of part of this next term of S. Michael now at hand, from the utas of the same, until the fourth return of the said term called mensae Michaëlis next coming. His majesty therefore, of his special favour and clemency, is pleased and contented, to adjourn the said term of S. Michael, that is to say, From the utas thereof, unto the said fourth return of the said term, called mensae Michaëlis next coming; Which his majesty signifieth to all and singular his loving Subiects of this his realm, to the intent that they and every of them, which hath cause or commandement to appear in any of his Highnesse Courts at Westminster, in or at any day or time from and after the said utas of S. Michael, may tarry at their dwellings, or where their business otherwise shall lye, without resorting to any of the said Courts for that cause, before the said mensae Michaëlis next coming, and that without danger of forfeiture, penalty, or contempt to incur towards his Highnesse in that behalf. And nevertheless his majesties pleasure is, That two of his Iustices, that is to say, of either Bench one, shall the first day of Michaelmas term, called Octabis Michaëlis, according to the ancient order of the laws, keep the Essoignes of the said Octabis Michaëlis. At which utas of S. Michael, Writs of adjournment shall be directed to the said Iustices, giuing them authority to adjourn the said term of Saint Michael, that is to say, From the said utas thereof, until the fourth return, as before is said. And the said adjournment shall be made in the first day of the said utas, commonly called, the day of Essoignes. And further his majesties pleasure is, That all matters, causes and Suits, depending in any of his other Courts between party and party, as in his Highnesse Courts of Chancery, star-chamber, and Exchequer, Courts of Wards and liveries, Duchy of Lancaster, and Court of Requests, shall haue continuance, and the parties shall haue day from the date of these presents, until the said fourth return, as before is said. provided alway, and his majesties pleasure and commandement is, That all Collectors, receivers, Sheriffes, and other accountants, and all other persons, that should or ought to account or pay any sum or sums of money in any of his majesties Courts of Exchequer, Court of Wards and liveries, and of his duchy of Lancaster, or in any of them, or to enter into any account in any of the said Courts, shall repair unto the accustomend places at Westminster, where his Highnesse hath appointed such Officers and ministers, as for that purpose his majesty hath thought expedient, and there to pay and do in every behalf, as though no such Proclamation of adjournment had been had or made. And his Highnesse further pleasure and commandement is, That all Sheriffes shall return their Writs and process against all such accountants and Debtors, at the dayes therein appointed. And if any person or persons, who ought to account or pay any sum or sums of money to his majesty in any of the Courts and places aforesaid, do make default therein, That then his Highnesse Writs and process shall be awarded and sent forth against every such person and persons, and the same to be duly& orderly served, and returned by the Sheriffes and Officers thereunto appoynted, in such like maner and form, as the same should haue been, if this present Proclamation had not been made. And if any sheriff or other Officer shall make default, or be negligent in serving, executing, or returning of any the Writs and process aforesaid, That then every such sheriff and other Officer, shall incur such pains and penalties, as by the said Courts, or any of them shall be taxed and assessed; Willing and commanding all and every his majesties Sheriffes, Officers, Ministers and Subiects, to whom it doth or shall appertain, to observe and keep their assemblies and appearances with all their returns and Certificates, in his Highnesse said Courts at Westminster, in mensae Michaëlis next coming, then and there to be holden and kept, and there to do their Offices and dueties in every behalf, in like maner and form, as they should or ought to haue done, if this present Proclamation had not been had or made, as they will answer to the contrary at their perils. given at our Honour of Hampton Court, the 23. day of September, in the fourth year of his majesties reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1606. ¶ A Proclamation forbidding all Londoners and other inhabitants of places ininfected, to resort to the Court. THe Kings most Excellent majesty, considering what peril oftentimes ensueth by the means of great assemblies of people in time of infectious diseases; doth therefore straitly charge and command, that no maner of person or persons, of what estate, degree, or condition he or they be, inhabiting within the Cities of London, and Westminster, and the Suburbs of the same, or any other place where the Infection of the Plague is, or hath been within six weekes next before the date hereof, do presume to resort, or come unto his Highnesse Court at Whitehall, or wheresoever it shall please the King, the queen, or the Prince to lye or abide, until such time as his highnes pleasure shal be further known therein, except the Lords the Bishops of this realm, the Iudges of the Law, his majesties learned council, the principal Magistrates of the Cities of London, and Westminstcr, and all household seruants of his majesties, and other necessary persons for provisions of his Highnesse household, not having the Infection of the Plague in their houses, or near unto them, by the space of six weekes, as aforesaid. It is also further by his majesty thus provided, That if any other( except before excepted) shall haue necessary cause to resort or come unto the Court from any of the places before name, the same persons shall not come within the utter gates of the Court, until they haue first sent one of the Kings majesties Porters at the Gates, and to him declared, unto whom they haue necessary occasion to repair within the Court, And thereupon the said Porter shall cause the parties to stay abroad, without entering into any House, Tent, or company of any person, and shall certify the Lord Steward, the Lord chamberlain, the treasurer, the controller, the Secretary, the Vicechamberlaine, or any other of his majesties privy council, or some of the principal Officers of the Greenecloth, if the matter shall appertain to the Kings majesties household, according to the quality of the matter, and of the persons with whom the parties haue to do in the Court: and by a Warrant in writing under the hands of any of the said Lords counsellors, or Officers, or by signification from some principal person about them, certified to any of the Kings majesties Porters, that the said persons shall or may come into the Court: then the said Porter shall permit and suffer them so to do: otherwise the said persons shall be commanded to return without any longer abiding, vpon pain of his majesties grievous displeasure, and severe punishment in the marshalsea. given at our Palace of Westminster, the first day of november, in the fourth year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1606. ANNO QVINTO jacobi REGIS. ¶ A Proclamation for suppressing of persons riotously assembled for the laying open of enclosures. WHereas some of the meaner sort of our people did of late assemble themselves in riotous and tumultuous maner within our County of Northampton, sometimes in the night,& sometimes in the day, under pretence of laying open enclosed grounds of late yeeres taken in, to their damage, as they say; The repressing whereof we did first refer onely to the due course of Iustice, and the ordinary proceedings of the Commissioners of the Peace, and other our Ministers in such cases: Forasmuch as wee haue perceived since, that lenity hath bread in them, rather encouragement then obedience, and that they haue presumed to gather themselves in greater multitudes, as well in that County, as in some others adjoining, We find it now very necessary to use sharper remedies. Wherefore, wee will and command all Lieutenants, deputy Lieutenants, Sheriffes, Iustices of Peace, Maiors, bailiffs, Headboroughs, Constables, and all other our Officers and ministers to whom it may appertain, if the said persons shal continue so assembled after Proclamation made, or any such new Assemblies be gathered in those, or any other parts of our realm, immediately to suppress them by whatsoever means they may, be it by force of arms, if admonitions and other lawful means do not serve to reduce them to their dueties. For we cannot but be justly moved to such severity against those, who unjustly throw a slander vpon our government, by taking that pretence for their disobedience: Seeing it is manifest by Act of Parliament, passed since our coming to this crown, that we haue been careful to prevent such Enclosures, and Depopulations, and that it hath been an ordinary charge given by us to our Iustices of assizes, when they went to their Circuits, to inquire of all unlawful Depopulations and Enclosures, and to take order to remedy the same, and to punish the Offenders therein according to the due course of Law. And it is well known to many, that we were now also in hand with some course to be taken by aduise of our counsel for the performance thereof: From which our good purpose and intent, this their presumptuous and undutiful proceeding, might rather give us cause to desist, then increase in us any affection to relieve such disordered persons, so far attempting against our crown and dignity, who choose rather to trust to their own pride and rashness, then to the care and providence of their sovereign. Willing and commanding all our said Lieutenants, deputy Lieutenants, Sheriffes, and other our Officers and ministers above mentioned, to attend diligently to the execution of this our pleasure, and all other our loving Subiects to be obedient to them in the performance thereof, as they will answer the contrary at their peril. given at our Palace of Westminster the 30. day of May, in the fifth year of our reign of Great britain, France, and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1607. ¶ A Proclamation signifying his majesties pleasure as well for suppressing of riotous Assemblies about enclosures, as for reformation of Depopulations. IT is a thing notorious that many of the meanest sort of our people in diuers parts of our kingdom, either by secret combination, wrought by some wicked instruments, or by ill example of the first beginners, haue presumed lately to assemble themselves riotously in multitudes, and being armed with sundry weapons, haue laid open in forcible manner a great quantity of several mens possessions, some newly enclosed, and others of longer continuance, making their pretence that some towns haue been depopulated, and diuers families undone by means of such Enclosures. In which seditious courses they haue persisted not onely after many prohibitions by our Ministers in the several Counties, but after particular Proclamations published by our royal authority, and which is more, when so many means of lenity and gentleness were offered to reclaim them, as no prince would haue used, but such a one as was both confident in the loyal affections of his Subiects in general, and compassionate towards the simplicity of such Offenders: many of them stood out most obstinately, and in open field rebelliously resisted such forces as in our Name, and by our authority came to repress them, whereupon ensued by necessity in the end that some blood was drawn as well by martiall execution, as by civil iustice. Vpon this accident it seemeth good unto us to declare to the world, and specially to our loving Subiects, as well that which concerneth our affections( which vpon several respects are divided between comfort and grief) as that which concerneth also our Princely intentions, which likewise are bent vpon the contrary objects and courses of grace and iustice. For first of all wee find cause of comfort in ourselves in regard of the clearness of our conscience( to whom God hath committed the care and supreme gouenment of our people) from giuing cause or colour of such complaint; the matter whereof is such, as we take ourselves more interested therein then any our Subiects can bee: For as we cannot but know, that the glory and strength of all Kings consisteth in the multitude of Subiects, so may wee not forget that it is a special and peculiar pre-eminence of those Countreys, over which God hath placed us, that they do excel in breeding and nourishing of able and serviceable people, both for war and peace, which we do justly esteem above all treasure and commodities, which our said Dominions do otherwise so plentifully yield unto vs. Neither in this particular case of depopulation, can any man make doubt but it must be far from our inclination to suffer any toleration of that which may be any occasion to decay or diminish our people, if we did consider nothing else, but that use and application which we may make( as other Princes do) both of the bodies of our people to carry arms for defence of our crown, and of their goods and substance to supply our wants vpon all just and reasonable occasions, so as wee may by many reasons sufficiently justify our care herein towards God and the world( forasmuch as appertaineth to our Kingly Office) seeing the said enclosures( lawful or unlawful) were all or the most part made before we had taken the sceptre of this government into our possession. Whereunto wee may add( as wholly cleansing and washing our hands from the toleration of these grievances) the continual and strict charges& commandements given by us to our Iudges and Iustices, for the care and reformation of those things which may be in any wise grievous to our people in their several Countreys, although in this point there is some defence alleged by our subordinate Ministers, and specially by the Iustices of assize, that our people haue been wanting to themselves in the due and ordinary means which they ought to take, by presentment of such as are or haue been guilty of these oppressions. But as we take comfort that the causes of these complaints haue not proceeded from our government, having contrariwise( before these seditious courses first broke forth) taken into our Princely consideration this matter of depopulating and decaying of towns and families( whereof we are more sensible, then any other) with resolution to cure whatsoever is amiss, by just and orderly remedies: So are we grieved to behold what the disloyalty and obstinacy of this rebellious people hath forced us unto, who being naturally inclined to spare shedding of blood, could haue wished that the humble and voluntary submission and repentance of all those Offenders, might both haue prevented the loss of the life of any one of them, and the example of Iustice vpon some might haue prevented the loss of more. And seeing it was of such necessity, that some in regard of their intolerable obstinacy in so pernicious Treason should perish, rather then the sparks of such a fire in our kingdom should be left vnquenched, that it may yet serve to put others in mind of their duty, and save them from the like ruin and destruction, for such and so traitorous attempts hereafter: In all which considerations, for that which may concern our royal intention, as wee would haue all men know and conceive, that neither the pretence of any wrongs received, nor our great mislike of depopulation in general, can in any wise stay us any longer, from a severe and just prosecution of such as shall take vpon them to be their own iudges and reformers, either in this or any other pretended grievance: So on the other side, we are not minded that the offences of a few( though justly provoking our royal indignation) shall alter our gracious disposition to give relief in this case, where it appertaineth, were it for none other cause then in respect of so many others our good and loving Subiects, which might haue alleged like cause of grief, and nevertheless haue contained themselves in their due obedience. And therefore we do first declare and publish our Princely resolution, that if any of our subiects shall hereafter vpon pretences of the same or like grievances, either persist in the unlawful and rebellious Act already begun, or renew and break forth into the like, in any parts of our kingdom; We will prefer the safety, quiet, and protection of our Subiects in general, and of the body of our State, before the compassion of any such Offenders, bee they more or less, and howsoever misled: and must forget our natural clemency by pursuing them with all severity for their so heinous treasons, as well by our arms as laws, knowing well, that wee are bound( as the head of the politic body of our realm) to follow the course which the best phisitians use in dangerous diseases, which is, by a sharp remedy applied to a small& infected part, to save the whole from dissolution& destruction. To which end we do accordingly charge& command all our Lieutetenants, deputy lieutenants, sheriffes, Iustices of peace,& al other Magistrates of Iustice under us, and all other our loving Subiects to whom it shall any ways appertain, to do and employ their uttermost endeavours and forces for the keeping of our Subiects in peace and obedience, for prevention of all such riotous and rebellious Assemblies, and destroying them,( if any do remain, or shall happen to arise) by force of arms, and by execution( even to present death) of such as shall make resistance. On the other side we do notify and declare to all our loving Subiects, That we are resolved, not out of any apprehension or regard of these tumults and disorders( which we know well to be onely dangerous to those that attempt them, and which experience may teach them, that they are in a moment to be dispersed) nor to satisfy disobedient people, be they rich or poor: But merely out of love of Iustice, Christian compassion of other of our subiects, who being likewise touched with this grief, avoyded the like offences, As also out of our Princely care and providence to preserve our people from decay or diminution, to cause the abuses of Depopulations and unlawful enclosures to be further looked into, and by peaceable and orderly means to establish such a reformation thereof, as shal be needful for the just relief of those that haue just cause to complain, and therein neglect no remedy, which either the laws of our realm do prescribe, or our own royal Authority, with the advice of our council can supply. For which purpose we haue already assembled our Iudges, and given them in charge straitly, to make it one of their principal cares as well to discover the said offences, as to consider how far they may be touched in Law, and in what course, and accordingly to proceed against them with all severity. And yet because the execution thereof requireth some time, though no more then must of necessity be employed therein, if any turbulent or seditious spirits by their impatience, or through their desire to satisfy their own wicked humors, by moving common troubles shall seek to prevent the course of Iustice by any such unlawful attempts, as haue been lately used, and abusing our gracious dispoposition shall take the presumption to be Reformers of the said inconvenience by any force, because they perceive hereby how much we mislike of it: We do once again denounce unto them the same severe punishment, which belongeth to Rebels in the highest degree, And do require all and every our Magistrates, Officers and ministers of Iustice( according to their place of authority) and all our loyal Subiects according to their duty of assistance( laying aside all slackness or fond pity) to see it duly put in execution: As on the other side we do promise, and are resolved graciously to lend our ears to humble and just complaints, and to afford our people Iustice and favour both in this and all occasions fit for a King to do for his good Subiects in general and in particular. given at our Mannour of Greenwich the 28. day of june, in the fifth year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1607. ¶ A Proclamation for repeal of a Statute made Anno 5. Ric. 2. and to restrain the Kings Subiects from departing out of the realm; And also concerning the transportation of Gold and silver. WHereas at a Parliament holden at Westminster in the fift year of King Richard the second, the King defended the passage utterly of all maner of people, as well clerk as others in every Port, and other town and place vpon the cost of the Sea, vpon pain of forfeiture of al their goods, except only the Lords and other great men of the realm, and true and notable Merchants, and the Kings souldiers; And further prohibited diuers other things vpon pain that the offenders should forfeit, as much as they might forfeit, as by the said Act appeareth: which statute was seldom or never( especially of late) put in execution, for that it was in some cases too rigorous, in others very dark and obscure, and now, forasmuch as concerneth the passage of the English Subiects into the kingdom of Scotland, become void and extinct in respect of the happy union of both kingdoms under one sovereign: His most Excellent majesty( preferting always the tranquilitie of his loving Subiects, before such and so great advantage as he might reap by recovery of such penalties) hath not onely suffered that particular branch of the Statue aforesaid to fall to the ground,( the continuation whereof were both unjust, and an apparent mark of separation) but hath been content, besides that particular clause which was included in the Act passed at the last Session of Parliament, for abolishing of hostility, and the memory of all things that depend thereon, to assent( in favour of the subject) to repeal the whole Statute itself of Richard the second. And yet his majesty( whose care doth ever watch over the weal of his Subiects) considering that the principal duty and allegiance of al his Subiects, doth chiefly consist to attend at all times the service and defence of their natural Liege Lord, and of their dear and native country, with all cheerful readiness and alacrity, either within the realm, or without, when they shal be thereunto required: And foreseing in his Princely providence and wisdom what danger( especially in these dangerous daies) might ensue to the whole State, if his Subiects might at their pleasure pass and depart out of this realm into the Kingdoms, Countreys, Dominions and territories of foreign Kings, Princes, States and potentates, hath vpon mature deliberation provided remedy for the prevention of such mischief as might follow thereupon: And therefore his majesty doth( according to his majesties laws and the resolution of his Iudges, with whom consultation hath been had, and agreeable to diuers Presidents in the reigns of King Edward the first,& King Edward the third( two most prudent and renowned Kings) and other of his noble Progenitors before the making of the said late Act by these presents with the advice of his privy council,) straitly prohibit and forbid all maner of persons being natural born Subiects of this realm, or any of the Dominions of the same, of what estate or degree soever they be, that they of any of them( other then such persons as were excepted in and by the said Act, and other then Souldiers, Merchants, Mariners, and their Factors and Apprentices) shall not any time hereafter without special licence of his majesty, or of any four or more of his privy council( whereof the principal Secretary for the time being to be one) pass or depart out of this realm of England, or any of the dominions of the same, into the kingdoms, Countreys, territories or dominions of any foreign King, Prince, State, or Potentate, vpon such corporal and other great and heavy pains and penalties as by our laws may be inflicted vpon such as shall offend therein, for their so heinous and unnatural offences against their natural Liege Lord and country in that behalf. provided always, that if any of the persons before excepted, shall after his departure out of this realm, do, commit, put in ure, attempt, or assent unto any Act, device, plot, or thing against his most Excellent majesty, or any of his kingdoms or dominions, or against any of his laws or Statutes, that every such person so offending, shal lose the benefit of the said exception, and shall to all intents and purposes be taken and adiudged to be as one that maliciously and contemptuously passeth or departeth out of this realm contrary to the tenor and effect of these presents. And whereas by error and vulgar opinion it is conceived and given out by some, That all men at this present be at liberty to transport and carry out of this realm any gold or silver in coin, jewels, Bullion, Plate or vessel, His majesty understanding thereof, caused the Iudges of the realm to be consulted withall in that point; who vpon due consideration and conference had amongst them, haue with one consent resolved, that the transportation of all maner of gold and silver in coin, jewels, Bullion, Plate or vessel is absolutely prohibited and forbidden as well by the Statutes in the twentieth year of King Edward the first, in the ninth year of King Edward the third, and in the second year of king Henry the sixth, as by diuers other Statutes vpon great and grievous penalties and forfeitures. Vpon signification of which resolution, his most excellent majesty, to the intent that none of his loving Subiects through any erroneous conceit or opinion might be deceived and endamaged, hath in his Princely clemency caused as well the said resolution of his Iudges, as the Statutes themselves to bee particularized and published for the safety of his loving Subiects: And further doth by these Presents straitly charge and command that all the said laws and Statutes concerning Transportation of Gold or silver be firmly holden, and kept and put in due execution. And doth further prohibit and forbid all and all maner of persons whatsoever, to carry or transport out of this realm any Gold or silver in coin, jewels, Bullion, Plate, or Vessel, contrary to any of the said laws or Statutes, as they will answer the contrary at their uttermost peril. given at our palace of Westminster, the 9. day of july, in the fifth year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1607. ¶ A Proclamation signifying his majesties gracious Pardon for the Offenders about enclosures. IN calling to our Princely remembrance, that in the late Rebellion vpon pretence of Depopulation and unlawful enclosures, the greatest number of the offenders haue not been proceeded with according to Iustice and their traitorous deservings, no nor so much as apprehended or touched for the same, although they be in no better case or degree, then those few which haue suffered or been called in question: There want not some reasons and circumstances which( if we would consult onely with policy or passion) might induce us to further severity, and a more general execution of the Law vpon the same offenders. For wee are not ignorant, that of all other seditions and rebellions, none doth bring such infinite waste and desolation vpon a kingdom or State, as these popular Insurrections, which though they do seldom shake or endanger a crown, yet they do bring a heap of calamities vpon multitudes of innocent Subiects, and chiefly vpon the Authors and Actors themselves. And again, We do observe, that there was not so much as any necessity of famine or dearth of corn, or any other extraordinary accident, that might stir or provoke them in that maner to offend; but that it may be thought to proceed of a kind of insolency and contempt of our mild and gracious government, which might( in some Prince) turn the same into more heavy wrath and displeasure. But wee nevertheless having at the very entrance of our reign, in the highest treasons against our own Person, intermingled mercy with iustice, are much more inclined in this case, which concerneth a number of poor and simplo people, to extend our natural clemency towards them. Whereupon we haue resolved to set wide open the gate of our mercy unto them, and to bestow vpon them our free grace and Pardon, without further svit or supplication. And therefore we do hereby take and receive all the said Offenders, and every of them, to our mercy, and of our grace and mere motion, freely pardon unto them their said Offences, and all pains of death or other punishment due for the same, and promise unto them, in the word of their natural Liege Lord and King, that they shall not be in any wise molested or impeached, in life, member, lands or goods for their said Offences, or any of them. So as nevertheless, that before Michaelmas next they do submit themselves, and aclowledge their said Offences before our Lieutenant, deputy Lieutenant, or sheriff in the County where they shal remain, whereof we will and command a note or entry to be made and kept. And we are further graciously pleased, that if any of them seueuerally or jointly shal desire for their better assurance, to haue out Pardon under our great seal, that our Chancellor shall make the same unto them without further warrant in that behalf. Not intending nevertheless to prejudice any our Subiects private svit or Action, but so much as in us is, absolutely to acquit and discharge them against us, our Heires and successors. given at our Castle of Windsor the 24. day of july, in the fift year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1607. ¶ A Publication signifying his majesties pleasure touching a Licence granted by his majesty to Sir Edward Hobby Knight, for buying and selling of wools. james by the grace of God, of England, Scotland, France and Ireland King, Defender of the Faith, &c. Know ye that we of our special Grace, certain knowledge and mere motion, &c. Haue given Licence, liberty, power and authority, and by these Presents for us, our heires and successors do give Licence, liberty, power and authority unto our well-beloved seruant Sir Edward hobby Knight, his Executors, Administrators, assigns, Factors and Deputies, and to every of them, that he and they and every or any of them, by themselves may provide and buy, or cause to be provided and bought yearly during the space of fifteen yeeres next ensuing the date hereof, in any place or places within the Counties of warwick, Stafford, Salop, Northhampton, Leicester, Nottingham, derby, lincoln, Rutland, Cambridge, huntingdon, Lancaster, Hertford, Buckingham, Bedford, Hereford or Monmouth, or any of them, or in any of the Counties within north-wales or south-wales, at one time or several times at his and their pleasure and liberty, so much wool as in the whole in any one year shall not exceed the number and quantity of five hundred Seplars of English or Welsh wools; So as the same be provided and bought, and every part thereof be bestowed and kept in any County or Counties, where Clothes, bays or kerseys are usually used to bee made, or in the City of Norwich, &c. And that the same and every part thereof bee by them sold in any of the said Counties, place or City of Norwich, which shall and may there bee done unto any our Subiects or other person or persons whatsoever, to the most profit and advantage of the said Sir Edward hobby, his Executors, Administrators or assigns, without incurring any danger, forfeiture or penalty, one Act made in the fifth year of the late King Edward the sixth, late King of England, or any other Act, Statute, Acts or statutes, laws, custom, Proclamation, Ordinance, restraint or Commandement heretofore made by us, or any our Progenitors, or hereafter by us our Heires or successors to be made to the contrary in any wise notwithstanding. To haue and to hold, exercise and enjoy the said Licence, liberty, power and authority aforesaid, and all and singular the premises before by these presents given and granted, or mentioned to be given and granted unto the said Sir Edward hobby Knight as is aforesaid, to the same Edward Hobby knight, his Executors, Administrators, Deputies and assigns, from the day of the date hereof, until the full end and term of 15. yeeres from thence next ensuing, and fully to be complete and ended. yielding and paying therefore yearly, &c. And further in consideration of the yearly rent before in and by these presents reserved and payable to us, our heires and successors as is aforesaid, and to the intent that he the said sir Edward hobby Knight, his Executors, Administrators and assigns, may be the better able to pay to us, our heires and successors, the said rent or sum by these Presents reserved or mentioned to be payed, We do by these Presents for us, our heires and successors, promise and grant to and with the said Edward Hobby Knight, his executors, administrators and assigns, That we, our heires or successors, or any of us, shall not, or will not make or grant any further or other Licence, grant or Letters Patents after the date of these Presents, during the continuance of this our Grant or Licence, to any other person or persons whatsoever, for, or concerning the buying of any Wools, to the intent to sell or utter the same again by retail or otherwise. Wherefore we do by these Presents for us our heires and successors, straitly charge and command all our loving Subiects, as they tender our pleasure, and vpon pain of our displeasure, that they permit and suffer the said Edward Hobby Knight, his Executors, Administrators, Factors and Deputies, and every of them to use, exercise and execute the said Licences, powers and privileges, in these Presents mentioned, and to take the said benefit hereof to his and their proper use, according to the tenor and effect of these Presents, without let, disturbance or interruption of them or any of them. Willing and requiring all Iustices of Peace, Maiors, and other our ministers and Officers where any person shalbe found disturbing or resisting the execution of the Licence, liberties, powers or privileges mentioned in these our Letters Patents, or any of them, to cause the disturbers and resisters from time to time to be attached as contemners of our regal power and authority, and to bee imprisoned until they shall become bound with sufficient Sureties to obey these our Letters patents, and not to disturb, interrupt or resist the execution of them. And further we do for us, our heires and successors straitly charge, command and prohibit all and every our loving subiects, that none of them do sue, implead or vex in any Court of record whatsoever the said Sir Edward Hobby Knight, his executors, administrators, assigns, factors and deputies or any of them, for and concerning buying of wools, to the intent to sell them again by retail or otherwise, so long as the said wools shall be bought and sold and uttered, according to the true intent of this our present Licence and grant. And if any svit shall bee brought or prosecuted in any Court of Record against the said Sir Edward Hobby Knight, his Executours, administrators, assigns, Deputies and Factors, or any of them vpon any Statute or Ordinance whatsoever, made against Engrossing and buying of wools, to the intent to sell them again by retail, or otherwise, then and so often wee do by these presents for us, our heires and successors, will, charge and require all and every Iustices and Iudges, of us our heires and successors, of all and every Courts of record of us, our heires and successors, where any such svit shall be brought and prosecuted, and the Barons of the Exchequer, of us, our heires and successors, that they and every of them shall use and employ the uttermost of their authority, and take all courses, and do all things which may stand with law and Iustice, for the speedy stoping, repressing and extinguishing of all clamorous and contentious suits and troubles, which may in any wise tend to the hindrance of the execution of this our Licence and Letters Patents, or to the impeaching or derogating from our prerogative royal in the granting of the same. And yet nevertheless our will and pleasure is, that if it shall appear or be alleged, that this our present Licence is or shalbe exceeded, or apparently abused, then our said Iustices, Iudges and Barons shall or may proceed to the examination thereof, and punishment for such excess, or apparent abuse, according to the laws and Statutes of this our realm. And further also we do by these presents will and command the treasurer, chancellor, and Barons of the Exchequer, of us, our heires and successors, vpon the complaint of the said Sir Edward Hobby, his executors, administrators, and assigns, factors and deputies, and every of them at all times during the said term, to assist, protect and defend the said Sir Edward Hobby, his executors, administrators and assigns, factors and deputies, and every of them, in all things needful and necessary, touching the lawful exercise and using of this our Licence and Grant for buying of wools as aforesaid, by all such ways and means, as to their discretion shall seem meet and agreeable to the laws of this our realm. And forasmuch as it is found very profitable for our realm of England, that the said Statute made in the fift year of the reign of the late King Edward the sixth, should in other places of our realm elsewhere then within the Counties and places before mentioned be observed and kept, and to the end that other our loving Subiects in any places or Counties within our realm, beside the said Sir Edward Hobby should not be encouraged to break the said Statute in regrating and engrossing wools, We therefore do by these Presents for us, our heires, straitly charge, command, prohibit all and every our loving Subiects other then the said Sir Edward Hobby, his Executors, Administrators, Deputies and Factors during the continuance of this our Grant, that they nor any of them during the term aforesaid, do presume to buy and sell any maner of wools by way of regrating or engrossing contrary to the said Statute, vpon pain of the forfeitures in the said Statute contained, and of Fine and imprisonment, and incurring our high displeasure and indignation. And if any man shalbe found in any place within this our realm, offending contrary to the said Statute, and this our prohibition in regrating or engrossing of wools, then we do by these Presents for us, our heires and successors straitly charge and command all Iustices of Peace, Maiors, bailiffs, and all other our Officers and ministers, to whom it shall appertain, to attach all such persons as shal be found so offending contrary to the said Statute, and this our Prohibition, and cause to be committed them, and every of them to prison, until they shall become bound with sufficient Sureties for their good behaviours, and not to buy any wools to sell again, contrary to the said Statute, And not to be released until they show full conformity and obedience to these our Letters Patents, &c. witness ourself at Westminster, the 21. day of August, in the 5. year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1607. ¶ A Proclamation concerning Starch. IT is not unknown to most of our loving Subiecs, That in the time of the late queen of famous memory, the making of Starch within this realm of England, being a thing newly taken up, and grown in few yeeres very frequent, and to bee much used, the inconvenience thereof was found to be so great, by the wasting and consuming of corn fit for peoples food, That many Proclamations were then made from time to time, for the repressing and utter abolishing of the same. Howbeit, afterwards some particular persons, having procured a special licence, as well for the making of Starch within the realm, as also for bringing in the same from foreign parts, the liberty of the subject was so prejudiced, by reducing of that into few mens power, which in the Common liberty of the subject was free to all, That much offence did arise thereby, Insomuch as the said grant, being afterwards by her, in favour to the Subiects, taken away vpon the complaints of the grievance arising thereby, and the making of that stuff within this realm being then left to the liberty of all men to use it at their pleasure, the same hath ever sithence been continued in many places of this realm. In which small time of continuance, it falleth out by experience, that the toleration thereof to be made here, is accompanied with so much offence to our people, as we perceive by the Information which thereof we haue received, That her intent and purpose to repress the making thereof, and to take away the inconvenience of the same, was not without good cause and just ground. For it appeareth by collection gathered, That the waste of corn spent and consumed in the making of this stuff in most places of this our realm, is so excessive, as it is not fit to bee spared from peoples Food, to serve in so vain and slender an use; For that it cannot be, but the spending thereof in Starch( especially in times wherein the plenty of corn shall not be very abundant) must needs increase both the scarcity, and the prices thereof, above that which is fit to be suffered. And further it appeareth by the Complaints and certificates, to us and our council sent from diuers Iustices of the Peace of several parts,( especially about our City of London, and the Counties near adjoining) That the making thereof is not without exceeding annoyance to the people dwelling near the places where it is made, by reason of the noisome stench and vnsauoury smells arising of and by the same: which breeding infectious airs, cannot but increase most contagious sicknesses and diseases, especially in these times of common Infection: A danger fit to be prevented, in that providence which wee owe to the welfare of our people, as in every part of the realm generally, so especially in our City of London, being our Chamber, the ordinary place of our abode for the best part of the year, and of the resort of all sorts of our Subiects for their necessary affairs. Which incommodities, having been by us, with the advice of our council, thoroughly considered, We had a determination for the redress thereof, and for the policy of our realm, utterly to take away the making of Starch within it, of what stuff, or under what pretence soever. nevertheless, vpon the humble svit of a great number of our loving Subiects lately made unto us, it being apparent, that the utter abolishing and taking away thereof, would be a great hindrance to them in their trades, and bereave many of them of the means of their necessary living and maintenance; And being likewise informed, that there may well be spared, both in our City of London, Westminster, and other the great Cities and towns of the realm, great quantities of bran, and other such courser stuffs, of which the best and finest Starch is usually made; We, tendering the good and benefit of our said Subiects, and being well pleased, in our Princely care and desire of the public good, to yield unto them the liberty and free use of their needful Trades, and of all due and convenient means of their necessary maintenance, And yet holding it as fit and needful to provide for the redress of all abuses and inconveniences, growing both by the needless wasting of the store of corn within our realm, and also by the public annoyance and offence given unto our Subiects, by the noisome making of Starch in most places of our kingdom as aforesaid, Haue therefore, with the advice of our council, thought it good to give authority unto certain persons of good quality and credite, by Commission under our great seal of England, from time to time to view and survey,& allow al places and houses within any part of our kingdom, where any Starch is or shalbe made, and with the assistance of the Maior, or chief Magistrate of that place which shall be next adjoining to any such place of Starch-making, to see that none be from henceforth made of Wheat, but onely of clean bran, and such like courser stuff; And that none shall he made in any such place, as may bee to the just annoyance and offence of our loving Subiects, but onely in such places, and in such order, as by the discretion and appointment of our said Commissioners, and such Magistrates next adjoining, shalbe thought fit. And to the end all men may thereof take knowledge, and may conform themselves thereunto accordingly, we haue thought it meet to publish our pleasure herein by Proclamation, willing and commanding all maner of persons whatsoever, that now do or shall hereafter use the making of Starch within any place of this our kingdom wheresoever, presently from henceforth to forbear to make any more Starch of Wheat, either whole, bruised, or gross grounden, or of meal, Rubbles, or any such like stuff. And we do also will and command all persons whatsoever, to forbear and surcease the making of any Starch in any place or places of this our realm of England whatsoever, except onely in such places as by the view, allowance, and appointment of our said Commissioners thereunto by us to be ordained, with the assistance of the Magistrates as aforesaid, shalbe thought fit and convenient, vpon pain not onely of the forfeiture of all such Starch so made contrary to our express will and pleasure hereby signified, of which the one half shall be to the party seizing the same, and the other half to us, our heires and successors, but also to incur such further punishment as for their contempt in a matter tending so much to the good and benefit of our people, shall bee thought fit to be inflicted vpon them. And we do also require all Iustices of Peace, Maiors, Sheriffes, bailiffs, Headboroughes, and all other our Officers, ministers, and loving Subiects whatsoever, that they be from time to time aiding and assisting to our said Commissioners, or such person or persons as shal be by them deputed and appointed to see this our Ordinance executed, and that they be careful every one within his charge to cause this our pleasure to be obeied, and to interrupt and suppress all persons who shall attempt to make any Starch otherwise, or in any other places then such as shall be so allowed and appointed as aforesaid, after the publishing of this our pleasure to the contrary. And also to seize their stuff, or to dispose and destroy the same as things noisome and offensive to all our people. And for the doing thereof, these shall be to you and every of you a sufficient Warrant. And furthermore for us, our Heires and successors we will and command, That all persons now using to make Starch in any part of this our realm of England, having a desire to continue the same, of bran and Pollard onely, vpon the publishing of this our Proclamation, if they dwell within forty miles of our City of London, vpon the last day of September next ensuing, and if their dwelling be further off, then vpon the last day of October now next following shall make their repair, or cause their names to be given and sent up in writing unto our said Commissioners, at the Founders Hall in London, together with a Certificate from some Iustice of Peace, or from the Maior, or chief Magistrate of the city, town, or place in or near where their dwelling is, signifying thereby their desire and intent to continue the making of Starch as aforesaid, to the intent our said Commissioners may take order for the same according to our pleasure hereby signified and expressed. And if any person or persons now using to make Starch, shall neglect or refuse to make their repair, or to give up his or their names with such Certificate in writing, so signifying his or their desire and intent to continue the making of Starch as aforesaid, Our will and pleasure is, that all and every such person and persons, shall for ever after bee deprived of the liberty to make any starch of any stuff whatsoever. given at Salisbury the 23. day of August, in the fifth year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1607. ¶ A Proclamation for proroguing the Parliament. WHereas at the rising of the late Session of our Parliament, we prorogued the same until the sixteenth day of november now next ensuing, For as much as the infection of the plague is now in some parts of our City of London, So that it is to be feared that if the term and Parliament should meet together, and thereby draw a double concourse of people from all parts of the realm thither, it might give occasion both to increase the said sickness thereabouts( where our most abode is) and to disperse it into other parts of the realm, Wee haue therefore thought it fit to prorogue it further into the Winter, that is to say, to the tenth day of February next, at which day our purpose is, God willing, to hold the same; And do hereby give notice to all whom it concerneth, that they may frame their affairs accordingly, and attend at the said tenth day of February to that service. given at our Honour of Hampton Court the last day of September, in the fift year of our reign of Great britain, France,& Ireland. Anno Dom. 1607. ¶ A Proclamation for jurors. AS it is a principal part of our Kingly Office, to administer Iustice to our people, by which our crown and sceptre is also established and confirmed: So we conceive, that we may truly and justly thus far reap the fruit of a good conscience, as to be witness to ourself, and likewise to report ourselves, not onely to our privy counsel,( which are acquainted with our more secret cares and cogitations) and our Iudges and counsel at Law( with whom we haue had more frequent conference, then Princes formerly haue used) but generally also to all other our loving subiects, in regard of some our public actions, Whether in these few yeeres of our reign( notwithstanding we could not be at our first entrance so well informed, as now we are, in the laws and customs of this our realm) we haue not exercised and employed our Princely care, power and means, for the furtherance and aduancement of Iustice duly and speedily to be administered to all our loving Subiects. For it appeareth, that we haue to that end been at charge to increase the number of our Iudges in our principal Benches, haue endeavoured to moderate some differences and contentions amongst our Courts in point of jurisdiction, to avoid double vexation of Suits, and haue from time to time, in person given more straight charge and admonition to our Iudges before the Circuits and visitations, and received again from them more straight accounts and reports at their returns, then hath been heretofore accustomend. And as we haue been thus careful concerning our Courts, and Iudges of the Law: So may wee in no wise omit to extend our Princely care to persons of another condition, on whom( though they bee not to bee termed Iudges) there lieth a principal part of judicature: which are those, who by the custom of the realm are called jurors, which serve to try and decide the Issues& points of fact in all controversies and causes. A matter no less important to the sum of Iustice, then the true and judicious exposition of the laws themselves. For even that Iudgement which was given by a King in Person, and is so much commended in the Scriptures, was not any learned exposition of the Lawe, but a wise sifting and examination of the fact, where testimony was obscure and failed. To which sort of persons also the Law of this our realm doth ascribe such trust and confidence, as it doth not so absolutely tie them to the evidences and proofs produced, but that it leaveth both supply of testimony, and the discerning and credit of testimony to the Iuries consciences and understanding. But herewithal we consider with ourselves, That this proceeding by jury( which is one of the ancient laws and customs of this our island of Great britain, and almost proper and singular unto it, in regard of other Nations) as it is an excellent institution in itself, so nevertheless it is then laudable and good, when those persons, which serve vpon the said Iuries, are men of such quality, credit and understanding, as are worthy to bee trusted with so great a charge, as to try mens lives, good names, lands and goods, and whatsoever they hold dear in this world. Wherein we cannot but observe, and highly commend the wisdom of the laws of this our realm( taking them in their own nature, before abuses crep● in) which haue in this point so well provided. For as in the trial of any peer of this realm, the Law doth not admit any to pass vpon him but peers: So in the trial of any of the Commons( which the Lawe beholdeth but as one body) there is no person whatsoever of that body by rule of Law exempted, in respect of his quality and degree onely, from the service vpon Iuries: whereas on the contrary part the Law hath limited, that none serve, except he haue a certain proportion of Freehold. And yet notwithstanding, time and abuse haue so embased the estimation of this service, and altered the use thereof, as Sheriffes, undersheriffes, bailiffs, and other inferior Ministers, do not onely spare Gentlemen of quality, in a kind of awe, and unwillingness to offend them, but do likewise for lucre, gain and reward, forbear to return many of the ablest and fittest persons; So that the service oftentimes resteth vpon such as are either simplo and ignorant, and almost at a gaze in any cause of difficulty, or else vpon those that are so accustomend and endured to pass and serve vpon Iuries, as they haue almost lost that tenderness of Conscience, which in such cases is to be wished, and make the service, as it were an occupation and practise. Vpon these grounds therefore, and vpon aduise taken with our privy council, and conference with our Iudges and council at Law, We haue resolved to give some remedy to those abuses, and to restore the form of trials in this our realm of England, to the ancient integrity and credit, as much as in us lieth. And therefore we do hereby publish and declare to all our loving subiects, that they take light from us of the greatness of this service, and that the Gentlemen of best quality do put away that vain and untrue conceit, that they are any ways disgraced, or disesteemed, if they be called vpon or used in this part of Iustice, to be triers of the fact, Knowing that all Iudgement is Gods principally, and by him committed unto us within the Precinct of our kingdoms, as his minister vpon earth, to whom likewise they are subordinate. And wee do likewise charge and command all our Iudges, Iustices, sheriffes, undersheriffes, bailiffs and others to whom it may appertain, To take knowledge that this is our express will and pleasure, That all persons which haue Freehold, according to the Law, shalbe returned to serve vpon Iuries, as occasion shall require. foreseing also that they use a respect, that the same persons be not too often returned and troubled, but that the service may rest more equally& indifferently vpon the whole body of sufficient Freeholders i● every county, the one to ease and relieve the other, and that there be a discretion used, as well in returning the most principal persons vpon the greatest causes, as in sorting men of quality with their equals, as near as may be. And now that we haue thus declared our earnest care and zeal for the furtherance of Iustice in this kind, seeing it hath been usual for sheriffes and other ministers( to whom it appertains) to forbear the returning of diuers persons, in respect that they were sons to peers of our realm, or men of extraordinary place and calling, which we haue no way misliked,& do well allow: Intending likewise that such,& so convenient respect be used particularly to our Iustices of Peace, in regard of the place they hold, and their continual employments, as they may be no oftener used in services of that nature, then shal be necessary: And forasmuch as we do well consider that it may so fall out many times, that diuers persons besides those above name, and such other as the Lawe for natural impotency dispenseth withall in an ordinary course, may like wise be found meet to be forborn in these services: we do hereby declare, that we are also resolved by virtue of our prerogative( and according to the ancient presidents of our progenitors) to grant special exemption by our letters Patents to some such persons, and vpon such special causes as we shall think just and reasonable, not meaning from henceforth to leave it in the power of any other, but in the special cases aforesaid, to do that which is only proper to ourself. In which course( as in al the rest of our proceedings) although it appeareth unto us by a Certificate lately made from the sheriffes, of the state of the Freeholders in this kingdom, that the multitude of them is great& are otherwise as certainly informed, that the one half is not certified: and although we haue been& are daily importuned for some particular exemptions by diuers persons, aswell knights& gentlemen, as other freeholders of good ability: nevertheless, because it may appear that we do and ever will preserre the precious care of Iustice before an other second considerations, we resolve there shal be so good a moderation in the number, as well as in the choice of the persons, as no prejudice shal arise thereby in the ordinary course of Iustice, although our meaning be, that all such Grants so to be made by us, shal extend aswell to al causes concerning ourself, our heires and successors, as our subiects. All which we haue thought fit to notify by this our Proclamation. given at our Honour of Hampton Court the 5, day of October, in the 5. year of our reign of Great britain, &c. Anno Dom. 1607. ¶ A Proclamation touching new Buildings and Inmates. THe Kings majesty perceiving the great inconveniences, which daily do arise by the continual additions of a multitude of new buildings in the city of London and the Suburbs and Confines thereof, and the filling and pestering of houses with Inmates and several dwellers(& those of the worse sort) almost in every several room, whereby both the people increasing to so great numbers, are not well to be governed by the wonted Officers and ordinary jurisdiction of the same, and likewise the prices of Victuals are by that means excessively enhanced, and the health of his loving Subiects, not onely those which inhabit in and about the said city, but also all others repairing thither from all parts,( in respect either of the usual resiance of his majesties Court thereabouts, or otherwise for ordinary Iustice) endangered( whereof the present Infection in and about this city, makes his majesty the more sensible) And moreover the other good towns and Boroughs of his kingdom by reason of so great receipt for people in and about the said City, are much unpeopled, and in their trading,& otherwise decayed, for remedy of which inconveniences, there haue been diuers politic and necessary Proclamations, as well in the time of the late Queen Elizabeth of famous memory, as since his majesties most happy reign, published& devised: His majesty mindes to require account as well of those that haue neglected the execution of them, as to punish the offenders against the same: And further by the deliberate aduise of his privy council hath determined, to take yet a more straight and severe course, for the avoiding of the like inconveniences hereafter. For although there be manifest cause of greater concourse of people to the said city, and by consequence, of habitation and receipt for them, by reason of the largeness of his Highnesse dominions,& the universal peace wherein his majesty lives and governs: yet notwithstanding his majesty( considering that the foundations already laid within the said City and Suburbs and Confines of the same cannot but be sufficient for all that shall haue just cause to dwell or abide hereabouts) hath therfore resolved, that unless it bee in some rare cases, and by special Licence, as hereafter in these Presents shalbe prescribed, there shall bee no more new buildings erected in or near the said City of London: and also that those that shall bee erected vpon old foundations, shall bee such as shall both adorn and beautify his said city, and bee less subject to danger of fire, and cause less waste of Timber( fitter to be reserved for the shipping of his realm) and likewise such as in regard of the charge of building, can not bee inhabited but by persons of some ability. And because the former Proclamations of this kind heretofore published are several, and in some points defective: therefore his majesty hath thought good( not intending thereby to dispense with former offenders) to make and publish one clear Proclamation digested into plain and distinct Articles, that the offenders hereafter may be without all colour of excuse, as they are already without all just defence. And therefore his majesty doth straitly charge and command all maner of persons, of what quality soever they bee, duly to observe and fulfil, and all Officers and persons in Authority whom it may concern, duly, carefully, and diligently to see observed, fulfilled, and put in execution these Articles following. FIrst, That no manner of buildings, bee they dwelling Houses, Stables, Shops, stalls, or any other building whatsoever, be from henceforth erected, or attempted to be erected within the City of London, or the Suburbs thereof, or within the distance of two miles, to be taken from any of the gates of the said city( except it be vpon the foundation of a former dwelling house, or in or vpon some inner Court or Yard of the same house:) And if any building contrary to this Article of his majesties prohibition shall happen to be begun, that the same bee forth with by the Iustices of Peace within that limit, or Alderman of the Ward, or any of them, stayed from any further proceeding. And as well such Builder, as the workmen vpon such building to bee committed to prison, and bound over to answer their contempt in the star Chamber, and the Timber or other stuff employed or to be employed thereupon, to be sold by the said Iustices, or Aldermen, or any of them, to the relief of the poor of the Parish where the said building shall happen to bee. And in case through neglect, or oversight, any such building happen to be finished, or in part done before stay made thereof: that nevertheless the same may be& shall be by the said Iustices or Aldermen, or any of them at any time within seven yeres after the finishing of the said building, pulled down, and the offenders punished, and the stuff and matter of the said building bestowed as is before expressed. ALso all new buildings that are already erected contrary to that which is prohibited by the former Article, concerning buildings to be erected hereafter, and are not at this present finished, shal be immediately pulled down, and the offenders and stuff ordered as is before expressed. ALl such new buildings as aforesaid, which haue been erected at any time within five yeeres before the date of this Proclamation, shal not in any wise be pulled down: but nevertheless, if they be at this present void of a Tenant, they shall not be inhabited nor let to any unless the owners shal be content that the Churchwardens and Minister by allowance of two or more of the Iustices of Peace of that division, or Alderman of the Ward shall dispose of them to some of the poor of the Parishes that are destitute of houses, or for the good and behoof of the said poor, and at and under such rents as they shall allow: and in case any such building bee already demised, that then such house be not let again, either in reversion, or vpon the expiration of the former estates, but in such sort and order as is before expressed. ANd if any house shall be let contrary to this Article, as well the taker as the Leassor to be deemed an offender, and to be committed to prison, and bound over to answer the same in the Starrechamber. provided nevertheless, that if any person shal erect, or hath erected for the enlargement of his dwelling house, any building joining to the same, he shall not be taken or held to be an offender against this Proclamation, so as the precinct of ground within the said addition or enlargement, amount not to any more then a third part of the precinct of ground within the old foundation, and that it be used with the former for one onely habitation. ALl Sheds and shops which haue been builded or set up within the limits aforesaid at any time within five yeeres last past, shal be forthwith pulled down, and the stuff of them ordered as is before directed touching other buildings to be pulled down: And no Cellars erected within this five yeeres last past, to bee used for lodgings, or tippling or victualling houses. NO new buildings shall be hereafter erected vpon the foundation of any former dwelling house, or within the precincts thereof, within the city or Limits aforesaid, except the forefront of the same, and all the utter walls and windows thereof shal be wholly made of brick and ston, or one of them: and the forefront also thereof shall bee made in that uniform sort and order, which shall bee prescribed by the Alderman of the Ward within the city and the Liberties thereof, and by two or more Iustices of Peace within the Suburbs and other Precinct aforesaid, for the better beautifying of the street where the said Building shalbe erected, vpon pain that every person offending against this Article, shall be Fined, and Imprisoned for the same by Order of the Court of Starrechamber. ALl new Buildings that for the time already passed haue been built since the first day of March in the second year of his majesties reign, and haue not their forefronts and walls of brick as aforesaid, contrary to his majesties Proclamation in that behalf at that time published, shall bee certified by the Iustices or Aldermen unto his majesties learned council, that there may bee a present proceeding against the offenders in that behalf. ANd forasmuch as the dividing of Houses into several Tenements and Habitations, and the letting of part of Houses and Chambers to Inmates and Vndersitters, is no less inconvenient then excessive Building as well in regard of surcharge of people, specially of the worse sort, as for breeding and spreading of Infection, besides other inconveniences proper to this abuse, His majesty doth further charge and straightly command, that these Articles following bee also duly observed and obeied. FIrst, That no person within the city or Limits aforesaid, do divide any dwelling House by Lease, sufferance, or otherwise, into any more Tenements or dwellings then are at this present used within the same. THat no person do hereafter receive into any House any Inmates or Vndersitters, or any more families then one. THat no man that shall erect a new house vpon or within the precincts of an old Foundation, shall divide the same into more Tenements or several dwellings, then were used in the said former houses. ANd for the more certain execution of every Article of this his majesties Proclamation, His majesty further commandeth, that the Alderman in every Ward, and the Iustices of Peace within the Limits aforesaid, do make diligent view, perambulation, and enquiry of every of the said offences, and them to certify to his majesties learned counsel once in the beginning of every term, that there may be a strict and severe proceeding therein, as appertains. And such Iustices or Aldermen which shall be found negligent or remiss in the execution of these Articles, his majesty will haue censured and punished as contemners of his royal commandement, and to be removed from being Iustice of Peace, as unworthy so to be. given at Royston the 12. day of October, in the fifth year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1607. ¶ A Proclamation for restraint of the inhabitants of places infected, from coming to the Court. THe Kings most Excellent majesty considering what peril oftentimes ensueth by the means of great assemblies of people in the time of infectious diseases, doth therefore straitly charge and command. That no person or persons of what estate, degree or condition he or they be, inhabiting within the Cities of London or Westminster, the Suburbs of the same, or any other place where the infection of the Plague is, not being household seruants to his majesty, or necessary persons for provisions of his household, do presume to resort or come unto his Highnesse Court at Whitehall, or wheresoever it shall please his majesty to lie or abide, until such time as his Highnesse pleasure shall bee further known herein,( except the Lords, the Bishops of this realm, the Iudges of the Law, the King and queens learned council, the principal Magistrates of the City of London, his Highnesse household seruants, and necessary persons for provisions of his majesties household, not having the infection of the plague in their houses, or near unto them, during the time aforesaid.) It is also further by his majesty thus provided, That if any other( except before excepted) shall haue necessary cause to come unto the Court from the said Cities of London, Westminster, the said Suburbs or other places before declared, the same persons shall not come within the utter gate of the Court, until they haue first sent unto one of the Kings majesties Porters at the gates, and to him declared unto whom he hath necessary occasion to repair within the Court, and thereupon the said Porter shal cause the party to stay abroad, without entering into any house, tent, or company of any persons, and shall certify the Lord Steward, Lord Chamberleine, Master treasurer, Master controller, the 'vice chamberlein, or one of them, or some of the principal Officers of the Greencloth, if the matter appertain to the Kings majesties household, or to some other of the Lords, or other of his majesties privy council, according to the quality of the matter, and of the persons with whom the party hath to do in the Court, and by a Warrant in writing, signed with the hands of any of the said Lords, counsellors, or Officers, certified to any of the Kings majesties Porters, that the said person shall, or may come into the Court, then the said Porter shall permit and suffer him so to do: otherwise the said persons shall be commanded to return without any longer abiding, vpon pain of his majesties grievous displeasure, and severe punishment in the Marshalsea. given at his majesties Palace of Westminster, the second day of november, in the fifth year of his Highnesse reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1607. ¶ A Proclamation touching the earls of Tyrone and Tyrconnell. SEeing it is common and natural in all persons of what condition soever, to speak and judge variably of all new and sudden accidents, And that the flight of the earls of Tyrone and Tyrconnell, with some others of their fellowes out of the North parts of our realm of Ireland, may haply prove a subject of like discourse: Wee haue thought it not amiss to deliver some such matter in public, as may better clear mens judgements concerning the same; not in respect of any worth or value in these mens persons, being base and rude in their original; but to take away all such inconveniences as may blemish the reputation of that friendship which ought to be mutually observed between us and other Princes. For although it is not unlikely, that the report of their Titles and dignities, may draw from Princes and States some such courtesies at their first coming abroad, as are incident to men of extraordinary rank and quality: Yet when we haue taken the best means we can to lay them open in every condition, we shal then expect from our friends and neighbors all such just and noble proceedings, as stand with the rules of honour and friendship, and from our Subiects at home and abroad, that duty and obedience( in their carriage toward them) which they owe to us by inseparable bonds and obligations of Nature and Loyalty, whereof we intend to take straight account. For which purpose we do hereby first declare that these persons above mentioned, had not their creations or possessions in regard of any lineal or lawful descent from ancestors of blood or virtue, but were onely preferred by the late queen our sister of famous memory, and by ourselves for some reasons of State before others, who for their quality and birth( in those provinces where they dwell) might better haue challenged those honours which were conferred vpon them. Secondly we do profess, That it is both known to us and our Counsel here, and to our deputy and State there, and so shall it appear to the world( as clear as the sun) by evident proofs, That the onely ground and motive of this high contempt in these mens departure, hath been the private knowledge and inward terror of their own guiltiness: Whereof because we hear that they do seek to take away the blot and infamy by divulging that they haue withdrawn themselves for matter of Religion,( a cloak that serves too much in these dayes to cover many evil intentions) adding also thereunto some other vain pretexts of receiving injustice, when their rights& claims haue come in question between them and us, or any of our Subiects and them, we think it not impertinent to say somewhat thereof. And therefore, although we judge it needless to seek for many arguments to confirm whatsoever shall bee said of these mens corruption and falsehood,( whose heinous offences remain so fresh in memory since they declared themselves so very monsters in nature, as they did not onely withdraw themselves from their personal obedience to their sovereign, but were content to sell over their native country to those that stood at that time in the highest terms of hostility with the two Crownes of England and Ireland) yet to make the absurdity and ingratitude of the allegations above mentioned, so much the more clear to all men of equal iudgment, We do hereby profess in the word of a King, that there was never so much as any shadow of molestation, nor purpose of proceeding in any degree against them for matter concerning Religion: Such being their condition and profession, to think murder no fault, marriage of no use, nor any man worthy to be esteemed valiant that did not glory in rapine and oppression, as we should haue thought it an unreasonable thing to trouble them for any different point in religion, before any man could perceive by their conversation, that they made truly conscience of any religion. So we do also for the second part of their excuse affirm,( that notwithstanding all that they can claim, must be acknowledged to proceed from mere grace vpon their submission after their great and unnatural treasons) there hath never come any question concerning their rights or possessions, wherein wee haue not been more inclinable to do them favour, then to any of their competitors, except in those cases wherein we haue plainly discerned that their onely end was to haue made themselves by degrees more able then now they are, to resist all lawful authority( when they should return to their vomit again) by usurping a power over other good Subiects of ours, that dwell among them better born then they, and utterly disclaiming from any dependency vpon them. having now delivered thus much concerning these mens estates and their proceedings, We will onely end with this conclusion, That they shall not be able to deny, whensoever they should dare to present themselves before the Seat of iustice, that they haue( before their running out of our kingdom) not onely entred into combination for stirring sedition and intestine rebellion, but haue directed diuers instruments, as well Priests as others, to make offers to foreign States and Princes( if they had been as ready to receive them) of their readiness and resolution to adhere to them, whensoever they would seek to invade that kingdom. Wherein amongst other things, this is not to be forgotten, That under the condition of being made free from English government, they resolved also to comprehend the utter extirpation of all those Subiects that are now remaining alive within that kingdom, formerly descended from the English race. In which practices and propositions, followed and fomented by Priests and jesuits( of whose function in these times the practise and persuasion of subiects to rebel against their Soueraignes, is one special and essential part and portion) as they haue found no such encouragement as they expected and haue boasted of: so Wee do assure ourselves, that when this declaration shall bee seen and duly weighed with all due circumstances, it will be of force sufficient to disperse and to discredit all such vntrueths, as these contemptible creatures so full of infidelity and ingratitude, shall disgorge against us, and our just and moderate proceeding, and shall procure unto them no better usage then they would wish should be afforded to any such pack of Rebels, born their Subiects, and bound unto them in so many and so great obligations. given at our palace of Westminster, the 15. day of november, in the 5. year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1607. ¶ A Proclamation for the appreprehending of the L. Maxwell. WHereas the Lord Maxwell, a noble man of our realm of Scotland, being our prisoner in our Castle of Edinburgh, for great disorders there committed, hath broken prison, which by the laws of that our realm is treason, and in his breach hath done violence to the Porter of the Castle, having sore wounded him, And likewise attempted to haue delivered Sir james Mac Donnell, a person guilty of many heinous offences, prisoner in the same place: After which escape he is now( as we are informed) fled into this our realm of England, and lieth lurking in and about our city of London: having had heretofore good proof of our peoples love and devotion towards us, in their readiness to discover and apprehended an●●ersons guilty of Treasons against us and our estate, We haue thought it fit to publish unto them the escape of the said L. Maxwell, and the cause thereof; And to require and charge all Lieutenants, deputy lieutenants, Iustices of peace, Maiors, Sheriffes, bailiffs, Constables, Headboroughes, and all other our officers, ministers and loving Subiects, to do their best endeavour to discover and apprehended the said L. Maxwell, and to deliver him, if he shal light into their hands, to some of our Officers, and to give knowledge thereof to us or our privy council. And to the end they may the better find and discover him, they shall know him by these signs, he is about the age of three ●nd twenty yeeres, tall and slender, of a whitish complexion, his face full of pockholes, his nose short and low in the midst, a little hair on his chin of a white colour, the hair of his head somewhat darker, and his legs are very long and small. given at our palace of Westminster, the nineteenth day of December, in the fifth year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1607. ¶ A Proclamation for proroguing of the Parliament. WHereas we did lately prorogue our Parliament till the tenth day of February now next ensuing, Wee haue for diuers special causes us moving, thought fit to prorogue the same again till the seven and twentieth day of October now next ensuing, at which day our purpose is( God willing) to hold the same, And do therefore hereby give notice to all whom it may concern, that they may frame their affairs accordingly, and attend at the same seven and twentieth day of October to that service. given at our Palace of Westminster the 10. day of january, in the fift year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1607. ¶ Orders conceived by the Lords of his majesties privy counsel, and by his Highnesse special direction, commanded to be put in execution for the restraint of killing, and eating of Flesh in the Lent, and to be executed as well by the Lord Maior within the city and Suburbs of London, and by the Officers of the Liberties and exempt places in and about the same, as by order to be prescribed by the Lords Lieutenants of all the Counties of the realm, to the Iustices of Peace, Lords of Liberties, and Officers of Corporate towns. ¶ Anno Dom. 1607. The 22. of january, in the 5. year of his majesties reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. THe Kings most Excellent majesty understanding of the great disorders heretofore, and especially the last Lent, committed in killing and eating Flesh in the time of Lent, chiefly in the City of London, and the Liberties thereto adjoining, straitly chargeth and commandeth. That these Orders following, be observed and put in execution. First, there shall be onely eight Butchers licensed by the Lord Maior within the City of London, viz. four in eastcheap, and four in S. Nicolas Shambles, who shall be of the poorer sort, and shall not pay any thing for their Licences, nor join with them any partners. That every of the said Butchers so to be licensed within the City and Liberties thereof, do utter and sell in their open shops, in such sort as in open time they are accustomend to do, and at such Rates and prices, as shal be set down by Order of the Lord Maior of London for that City, and the Liberties thereof: and besides every Butcher shall keep a perfect book what quantity of flesh they kill every day, and of what kinds, and to what persons they sell and utter the same, and the said Butchers to certify the Lord Maior, to the end the Lords of his majesties privy Counsel may be informed by him, how the laws& statutes in this behalf provided, are observed within the said City and Liberties thereof. That there be licensed to kill and utter Flesh in the Suburbs of the said City, as in the Counties of Middlesex& Surrey near unto London, onely 10. Butchers, and these to be licensed by the Iustices within the several Limits, whereof two to be of the Quorum, that is, two without Temple bar in the Parish of S. Clement Danes, two without Smithfield bars in the Parish of S. Pulchres, or Clarketonwell, or one of them, one in White-crosse street, one in Norton Folgate, one in White chapel, one in S. Katherines, two in southwark, and for the City of Westminster, and the Liberties thereof, two Burchers to be licensed by the chief Officer of that Liberty, and those to be as before expressed, for the said City and the Liberties, of the poorer sort inhabiting in those places, and to be licensed without any money, or other consideration to be given for the same, and to be bound to observe the like Orders in every respect, as those that are to be appointed for London, and the said clerk of the Market, Officer and Iustice, there to see them, hnd to set the prices of the victual to be uttered in those places. That no person be permitted to kill or sell any Flesh but to those that are licensed, nor in any other place then before is specified, vpon pain to forfeit the Flesh to be given to the poor in the prisons, and to suffer imprisonment. That the Constables, Churchwardens, and other public Officers be authorised in London, and the Liberties thereof, by the Lord Maior, and by the Iustices in the Counties of Middlesex and Surrey, and the forenamed Officers in Westminster, to make search, and to see that the licensed Butchers, nor any other do kill or utter any Flesh, nor do any thing contrary to these Orders. And for the better knowledge of the truth of disorders in this kind, and redress of the inconveniences, the Lord Maior of London, and every other Officer here appointed, shal call before them, and sand for any of the seruants of any Inholders, Victuallers, taverners, and keepers of ordinary Tables, and such other that utter Victuals, to examine them vpon their corporal oaths, what Flesh is, or hath been during the Lent season, dressed, killed, uttered, or eaten in their houses, which if they shall refuse to do, then to commit to prison the said seruants so refusing vpon their oaths to declare the truth. That the Lord Maior himself shal grant no warrant for buying of flesh in Lent, but to such as shall haue or show him licence in writing, according to the laws of the realm to eat Flesh, and the same licence to be viewed and registered, and books to be kept thereof, to be shewed when the same shalbe required, unless it be to ambassadors and Agents of foreign Princes. That the Lord Maior shal now presently before Lent, or at the beginning thereof, cause all Inholders, keepers of Ordinary tables, Victuallers, Alehouse keepers, and taverners within the city and liberties thereof to appear before him, or such persons as he shall appoint meet for that purpose, and shal take bonds with sufficient Sureties of every of them in good sums of money, viz. 100. pound the principal, and the Sureties 30. pound a piece to his majesties use, not to dress any flesh in their houses this Lent time for any respect, nor suffer it to be eaten, except it bee for some such person that lieth in their house, that also hath licence through sickness, or other necessary cause to eat flesh. Also like bonds shall bee taken of the Poulters, not to utter any Poultry ware, but to such as shall be likewise licenced to eat flesh, and that such as will not give such bonds, that they be secluded from all utterance of victuals during the Lent season, excepting those Poulters that do ordinarily serve his majesties household, of whom like bonds shalbe taken by his majesties officers of the Greencloth: the like bonds with sureties shalbe taken of the like persons vpon like penalties by the chief officers of Westminster,& the liberties therof. And for the Butchers and other that come with victuals of flesh out of the country to the city, the Lord Maior shall cause certain persons to watch at the Gates and other like places in the Suburbs where flesh may be brought in, to view and search, and to intercept the same. The Carriers of the said victuals of flesh if any shall be taken, to be guided to the persons houses that haue licence,& this watch to be continued daily during the whole time of Lent: And if any of those watchmen be found negligent& corrupt in his charge, then he to be committed to prison, there to continue during the whole Lent. And in case the same shall be found to be brought to any person not warranted, or licenced to eat it as is aforesaid, then the same to be forfeited and sold at the direction of the Lord Maior for the use of the poor in the Hospitals and Prisons in the city, and the bringers to be imprisoned. And for that it is to be doubted that the Fishmongers, vpon the observation of the said orders, will take occasion thereby to inhanse the prices as well of fresh as of Sea fish, it is thought meet that the Lord Maior shall take order with the said Fishmongers, that as well the salt as fresh fish shall be uttered at reasonable prices. That every of the butchers to be licenced as aforesaid, be bound in a sufficient bond with good Sureties to his majesties use, to observe these orders in every respect, and these bonds to be taken by the Lord Maior, and other the Officers aforesaid. And as those orders are expressly devised to be executed in the city of London, and places near to the same: so his majesties pleasure and commandement is, that the execution of these or like orders be performed by the commandement of his majesties Lieutenants to be sent to the Iustices of peace in all Shires within their rule,& to all other officers in towns corporate, or in any liberties, with like order for bonds to be taken to his majesties use. ANNO SEXTO jacobi REGIS. ¶ A Proclamation against Transportation of Leather. WHereas we understand, that diuers of our loving Subiects haue made complaint, that the price of neats-leather is lately raised to such a height, as it proveth very grievous to the poorer sort, who haue daily use thereof: Such is and shalbe ever our care and resolution to prevent, or reform all things that may be burdensome to any of our people over whom Almighty God hath committed to us the universal care, as wee haue been no less curious to find and search out the true cause, then to provide for the remedy of the inconvenience, And therein particularly to be sure to take away all means or colour for any such grievance, that may( either in truth or apprehension) arise from any action of our own. For which purpose, although we do daily see by common experience, that excessive prices grow vpon our Subiects by the practise and greediness of private persons, who either by Forestalling and engrossing of commodities, or by combining to keep them at high prices, or by conveying them out of our realm by stealth, do increase the rates as well of foreign, as home bread commodities, without any Act of ours: nevertheless, because we haue observed that some evil affencted people, in this, as in diuers other things, are more inclined to impute the cause of grievance to some thing done by us, then to resort to the main and original grounds of the same; We haue for more surety, caused our council to take information what Licences we haue given,( which haply may haue been some pretext for abuse in that kind) and thereby finding that some small quantity of that commodity hath been Transported by virtue of a licence granted at our first coming, at the Suite of some foreign Princes our Allies, whom we could hardly then refuse, although it be known to the world, that we did not give Licence for any Leather by name, but generally for the Transporting of forbidden commodities, and that onely to the sum of six thousand pounds in value, which could be no occasion of such scarcity: Yet because it is not unlikely but that some neats-leather might he hereafter issued by virtue of that Licence( as some hath been already) contrary to our meaning, We did not onely( so soon as this came to our ears) give present order to our treasurer of England to restrain all use of Licences( if any there were or be) concerning the transportation of such Leather, whereof there is no such plenty within our kingdom, but that whatsoever is carried away, may be soon felt in the scarcity and dearness thereof at home, But for the more sure prevention of this grievance, and that all our loving Subiects may be witnesses of our care in this behalf, We do now by these Presents revoke and disannul all Licences and Tolerations concerning Transportation of neats-leather,( if any there be) And do further expressly prohibit and forbid all maner persons whatsoever, That they attempt not from henceforth to carry or convey away, or cause or consent to be carried or conveyed away out of this our realm, any neats-leather, or Neates-Hides raw before they be perfect Leather. And likewise we do by these Presents straitly charge and command al our Customers, controllers, Searchers, surveyors, and other our Officers of our Ports, That they do not onely inform our said treasurer, what neats-leather, or Neates-hides raw they haue known to be Transported at any time since the beginning of our reign, at what Ports, and by whom; But also that they be from henceforth watchful that none pass by any practise, pretence, or colour whatsoever, as they, and every of them will answer the contrary at their uttermost perils. Knowing that from henceforth they shall haue no excuse by pretence of Licences or other Tolerations, inasmuch as wee haue revoked and disavowed them( if any such there bee) by these Presents. Willing yet further all our Subiects that can learn or understand and abuse in this behalf, That they also resort to our said treasurer and inform him thereof, whereby he may detect the fraud, corruption, and confederacie of our said Officers, if they shall conceal the same. And such discoverers shall receive such reward as their service shall deserve. given at our Palace of Westminster the 31. day of March, in the 6. year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1608. ¶ A Proclamation commanding the the Oath of Allegiance to be tendered to all the Kings majesties Subiects coming from beyond the Seas, except Merchants and men of quality. IT hath been our desire and disposition in all the course of our government( as one of the best and safest remedies) to extend our natural clemency in forewarning Offenders, where reason of State will not permit us to use the same in dispensing with their offences; And having lately observed that diuers of our Subiects haue repaired into our realm of England from the parts beyond the Seas( being persons of mean condition, and of wandring course of life, and unknown to any of credit that might undertake for them) who haue refused to take the Oath of Allegiance, lately by our Parliament devised: Wee cannot but conceive that such persons are not unlike to become bad instruments of practise and peril against our State. For considering that wee had never any intention in the form of that Oath to press any point of Conscience for matter of Religion, but onely to make some discovery of disloyal affection: the refusal thereof in any person must both induce a vehement suspicion in itself, and much more in such a one as may bee probably supposed to haue come from such parts, where he may haue conversed with traitors and fugitives, and is also of a needy fortune, which may make him apt for any dangerous or desperate employment: And therefore we haue resolved, and accordingly do charge and command all persons authorised by Law, to minister the said Oath, that taking information from the Officers of our Ports, and by all other good ways and means, they fail not to tender the same Oath at the Ports to all our Subiects coming from beyond the Seas,( not being known merchants or men of some quality) and vpon refusal thereof the Law to be severely executed, which willeth to commit them to prison until the next assizes, or general quarter Sessions, and so vpon a second refusal to be brought within the degree of a Praemunire. Wherein, because the penalty is so grievous( of which nevertheless we can not in our Princely providence make any alteration) We haue thought good to notify our resolution, and order given therein, which we doubt not, but will be in small time dispersed abroad; to the end that such as now are, or hereafter shall bee in foreign parts, and find in their own hearts such affections, as can not stand with the said Oath, may know their peril, and thereby either refrain their coming in, or expect the execution of our laws. given at our palace of Westminster the 29. day of april, in the sixth year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1608. ¶ A Proclamation for the preventing and remedying of the dearth of grain, and other Victuals. THe Kings majesty having taken knowledge of the high prices of grain and other victuals, lately and very suddenly grown in sundry parts of this realm, And finding no sufficient reason thereof, doth judge that the rich Owners of corn do keep their store from common markets, thereby to increase the prices therof, Or else that the same is engrossed vnduely into few hands, and so the multitude of poor people having no grain of their own growing, must needs sustain great lack. His Highnesse therefore for remedy thereof, hath caused special Orders to be made and published through all parts of this realm, bearing date the first day of june 1608, and entitled, Orders appoynted by his majesty, &c. By which the Iustices of Peace in all parts of the realm, are directed to stay all Engrossers, Forestallers and Regraters of corn, and to direct all Owners and Farmers,( having corn to spare) to furnish the markets rateably and weekly, with such quantities as reasonably they may and ought to do, and to see diuers other Articles observed and performed, tending to the prevention and remedy of this inconvenience. nevertheless, because his majesty doth well know, that the life of these his gracious, godly, and politic Constitutions, depends vpon the careful and diligent execution of the same: His Highnesse doth therefore by this his Proclamation( to the end that no person whom it may concern, shall or may plead ignorance) straitly charge and command all Sheriffes, Iustices of Peace, Maiors, bailiffs, Constables, and other his Officers and Subiects whatsoever, That they take knowledge of the said Orders, and observe and cause the same to be observed, as shall appertain unto them, as they tender his displeasure. And because there may be just cause to fear, that notwithstanding all the straight provisions that are lately taken against transportation of grain, yet under colour of conveying of it from port to port within the land, some may bee conveyed into foreign parts: Therefore for further provision in that behalf, besides the bonds in that case appoynted to be taken, His majesty commandeth and giveth licence to any person that shall haue cause to suspect that any such corn is or should be shipped, or provided to bee shipped by lawful authority to be carried to any other Port, that the same may be by fraud carried out of the realm; such person having such cause to suspect, shall give information thereof to any Iustice of peace, or public officer dwelling near to the Port, Which Iustice or Officer shall with the said Informer, repair to the custom house of any such Port or Creeke where corn is shipped, or provided to be shipped, and there shall duly examine both the Officers of the custom house, and the sellers, buyers, and shippers of the corn vpon their several oaths, whether they know of any intention directly, or indirectly, to haue the said corn to be carried out of the realm. And further also, when by their oaths they shall clear themselves of any such intention( thereby the suspicion conceived being cleared) yet the Officers of the Ports that haue authority to take bonds, shall show the parties, who vpon pregnant suspicion shall require the same, and give them in writing the contents of the bond, with the names of the parties bound, being sufficient to answer the same, the true quantity of the grain, and the ports to which it is intended to haue the same carried: And if notwithstanding such provision of good assurance taken, there shall afterwards any doubt follow, that notwithstanding the said bonds the said corn shall be carried out of the realm, The party that shal haue cause so to suspect the same, shall repair to some Iustice of peace, whom his majesty doth hereby command to examine the truth at the Port whereunto the said corn was appoynted. And for that purpose the officers of that port shall make plain declaration whether any such corn, or what quantity therof came to that port within the time limited; And if by good proof it shall any ways appear, that there hath been any fraud in any officer of the Port, or falsehood in the Transporter by carrying it out of the realm, the Officer of the Port shall bee deprived of his Office, and suffer imprisonment, and make Fine to his majesty at his pleasure; And the Transporter for carrying it out of the realm, and the seller and buyer, or either of them being privy thereto, shall be committed to prison for the space of one year, and the ship forfeited; And the Informer for his labour and reward, shall haue both the half of the value of the corn transported, and the half of the Fines imposed vpon the offenders. And for the trial of these offences, and execution of the punishments and Fines, the same shall bee tried in his majesties exchequer, as all Informations are vpon penal Statutes, where all expedition shall be used, or before the Iustices of assize in their Circuits, or before any Iustices of Peace in the Sessions where the offence shall bee committed, having any authority to hear and determine any penal Law. Finally, his majesty is particularly informed of some intentions of sundry persons of ability to keep hospitality in their Countreys, to leave their Hospitalities, and to come to the city of London, and other Cities and towns corporate, thereby leaving the relief of their poor neighbours, as well for food, as for good rule, and with covetous mindes to live in London, and about the city privately, and so also in other towns corporate, without charge of company. For withstanding whereof, his majesty chargeth all maner of persons, that shall haue any such intention during the time of this Dearth, not to break up their housholds, nor to come to the said city, or other towns corporate, And all others that haue of late time broken up their households, to return to their houses again without delay. Of the performance and execution of which his majesties orders, It is his Highnes pleasure that the Iustices do make certificate vpon all occasions to his majesties privy council, and more particularly for his Highnesse better satisfaction, what price corn and victuals do bear. given at our Mannour of Oatlands, the second day of june, in the sixth year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1608. ¶ A Proclamation against making of Starch. ALbeit our great care to provide for the good and welfare of our loving Subiects, hath at all times appeared in the whole course of our Proceedings since our coming into this kingdom, aswell for preventing, as for removing all abuses and inconveniences; And knowing, that there is not any one thing, that can be more bitter and grievous unto all sorts of people( especially those of the poorer sort) then the fear or feeling of scarcity and dearth of corn, and other Victuals, Wee haue not onely in regard thereof, given former commandement by our proclamation, and other Orders lately published, to provide against the great scarcity and dearth of corn, but also for the more surety, in a matter of so great consequence to our people, vpon diuers certificates and complaints to us and our Counsel sent from sundry the Iustices of Peace of several parts of this realm, We did both give strict direction for restraining the excessive making of Starch, because we conceived it might be a means to waste the corn and grain of this our realm, and vpon the humble svit of the better sort of the Starch makers themselves, did authorize certain selected persons, by Commission under the Great seal of England, with the assistance of the Magistrates in all places of this kingdom, to see and take order, that no Starch should bee made of Wheat, or of any other stuff fit for the food& sustenance of man, but onely of clean bran, or such like courser stuff. Since which time, having been informed, that our great care and earnest desire in that behalf, hath not sorted to that good effect which was then purposed, by reason that many bad and ill disposed persons, which never before had used the making of Starch, haue since that time, out of a greedy desire, and for covetousness of gain, newly set up, and erected Starch-making in sundry places of this land, without any allowance from our said Commissioners, and the Magistrates authorised thereunto, And that many others also, who formerly used Starch-making, haue since continued to make it of Wheat, and other stuff, which might haue served in times of dearth, for the relief of the poorer sort of our people, Whereby we do perceive and foresee, that by the use of Starch-making, both the scarcity and dearth of corn, may be also continued or increased, if it should not speedily be prevented: Although wee haue vouchsafed of late to release the payment of custom to all persons which would bring in any foreign corn, thereby the better to supply the present want at home; And albeit we shall by this course which followeth, lose great part of the benefit which ariseth unto us from the voluntary contributions of the Starch-makers: nevertheless, in our Princely care, and desire of the public good, and to the intent that all occasions may be removed and taken away, which shall or may in any sort be prejudicial to our Subiects, whose welfare we prefer before profit or advantage to ourself, by expending or employing either any corn, grain, or other stuff in the making of Starch, that may be of use to them within this realm, especially in this time, wherein so great a show of scarcity and want appeareth, as by the expense of so great quantities of sundry sorts of grain daily brought from foreign parts into several Ports of this our realm appeareth, but principally into our Port of London: From whence, forsomuch as we are certified, that amongst sundry great quantities of corn and grain that now are daily brought thither from foreign parts, good sweet; and merchantable, to the great relief of our Subiects, there are also some parcels of corn brought, which by foul weather and contrary winds happening to take wet, and to be long detained at Sea, one thereby become so much decayed, musty, and vnsauory, as the lame is altogether unwholesome for the food and sustenance of man, and not fit for any other use, then onely to be converted and made into Starch, and that for the good of such Merchants, whom such misfortune shall so befall. Wherefore we having with the advice of our council conceived, that it is very requisite for the time to prohibit and suppress the making of Starch in all places of this our realm and Dominion aforesaid, and to give order that no person or persons whatsoever shal hereafter make, or cause to be made, any Starch of any corn, grain, or other stuff whatsoever in any place or places within our said realm of England and Dominion of Wales, except onely in such maner, and of such stuff as is herein provided, and hereafter expressed, and to that end haue thought fit to signify our pleasure to all loving Subiects by our Proclamation: Willing and straitly charging and commanding all, and all maner of persons whatsoever which now do, or heretofore haue used the making of Starch within any place or places of our kingdom of England and dominion of Wales whatsoever, and which haue or shall haue an intent or purpose to make starch, from henceforth to surcease and forbear to make any Starch at all, either of Wheat, Pollard, bran, or any other stuff whatsoever, and also that they do not presume at any time or times hereafter to steep or cause to be steeped or put in water, or to prepare or provide any Wheat, Pollard, bran, or other stuff whatsoever, with intent and purpose to make the same into Starch, unless it be onely of such decayed and musty Wheat, bare bran, or such other stuff, not fit for mans sustenance as aforesaid, and that onely by such persons as shal be thereunto appointed, nominated and allowed by some of our privy council, or by such other discreet persons as they shall think ●t to select, nominate, and authorize for that purpose, and the same to be done onely in or near our Cities of London and Westminster, and other places near adjoining, where such corrupt Wheat and stuffs are most usually had in greatest quantities, and not elsewhere, and the rather, for that in other places more remote from our said City of London, the due observance and execution of this our command cannot be so well and carefully looked unto as is meet. To which end, and that none shall or may under colour of such corrupt Wheat and other stuffs, make or cause to be made into Starch any wheat, meal, Flower, Rubbles, or other stuff whatsoever fit for mans food; Our will and pleasure is, and we do hereby straitly charge and command, that there shalbe appointed by our said council, certain honest and discreet persons, who shall and may haue full power and authority at all times hereafter to view all and every parcel of musty Wheat, bran, and other stuffs whatsoever which shalbe offered to be steeped or made into Starch, before such time as the same stuff or any part thereof shal be put in water, steeped, or made into Starch by any person or persons so for the time being to be allowed by our said council to make Starch as aforesaid. And if any person or persons whatsoever shall attempt or presume after the last day of july instant, to offend or do contrary to our express will and pleasure hereby signified: Wee do by these Presents let them know and understand that our will and pleasure is, that he or they so offending, shall not onely loose and forfeit all the Starch so made or to be made, of which the one half shal be to the party seizing the same, and the other half to us, our heires and successors: But our meaning also is with all severity to proceed against all such offenders, and for their contempt of our prerogative royal in a matter tending so much to the good and benefit of our people, to inflict such further punishment as is usual in cases of such contempt. And whereas the manifold abuses heretofore committed in the making of Starch, contrary to our express command in our Proclamation last published, haue for the most part grown and been occasioned through the slackness and remissness of Iustices of Peace, and other our Magistrates and Officers whom we haue charged and trusted to haue the care and oversight hereof: We do now therefore straitly charge and command all and singular Iustices of Peace, Maiors, Sheriffes, bailiffs, Constables, Headboroughes, and all other our Officers and subiects whatsoever, That they do at all times carefully and diligently see and take order, that this our Ordinance and royal commandement hereby signified and expressed, be in all points duly performed, and that they do not suffer any person or persons whatsoever within any of their precincts, from and after the last day of this month of july instant, to make or cause to be made directly or indirectly any Starch in any place or places within this realm of England and dominion of Wales aforesaid, but that they do to their uttermost power and endeavour by all lawful means hinder and suppress the same. And we do further will and command them and every of them, and do also for us, our heires and successors, give and grant unto them and every of them full power and authority not onely to break and tear in pieces the vessels of all such persons wherein any such Starch shal be found to be made, contrary to our express will and pleasure herein signified, but also that they do cause all and every such offenders to be bound over with Sureties in good bonds to our use for their appearance before us and our privy council in our Court of star-chamber, there to answer to their said contempts. And if they or any of them shall refuse to enter into such bonds, then to commit every person so offending unto prison, there to remain until further order by us and our council shalbe taken for their enlargement and release. given at our Castle of Windsor the fift day of july, in the sixth year of our reign of Great britain, France, and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1608. ¶ A Proclamation for Buildings. THe continual new Buildings, and addition and increase of buildings in& near about the City of London is grown to that excess, and doth draw together such an overflow of people, specially of the meaner sort, as can hardly be either fed and sustained, or preserved in health or governed, which doth not onely threaten, but hath already bread and brought forth at diuers times dearth of victuals, infection of plague, and manifold disorders, which his majesty in his royal wisdom before this time foreseing, hath since his happy coming to the crown, by two several Proclamations, The one in the second year of his Highnesse reign concerning building with brick, the other in the fift year of his reign concerning building vpon new foundations,( wherein nevertheless the former ordinance touching brick buildings is continued) sought to give remedy and provision for the same; But such hath been and is the covetous desire of gain and private benefit arising of such buildings, joined with a neglect of Iustices and Officers in executing his majesties said Proclamations, as many persons haue presumed and adventured to offend against them, both to the continuance and increase of the former evils and inconveniences, and to the manifest ill example of contempt and disobedience in a case so notorious, and in the view of the whole kingdom: His majesty nevertheless not forgetting( though vpon so just cause of indignation) his accustomend clemency, hath thought good to make a difference between the offenders and their cases, and for such as haue offended in not building with brick, in as much as the offenders were in great multitude, and might haue some colour of necessity, or pretended impossibility, though unjustly, as themselves must needs confess, if they look abroad, and see what is done in other well polliced Cities of Europe, His Highnesse gave order that after some exemplar censure of a few offenders by sentence in the Star-chamber, the residue should be admitted to composition according to his majesties Commission of grace for that purpose granted, wherein his majesties express pleasure was, That the Fines should bee so mild and moderate as might make the Offenders themselves sensible of his majesties lenity and gracious disposition, and might make all others perceive, That it was not his majesties profit that was sought, but onely the repressing of the inconvenience, and the preserving of the authority of his majesties royal commandements for the public good, from contempt. But for the second sort of offenders, which haue erected new foundations where no buildings were before, which had no maner of circumstance to extenuate their offence, but many to aggravate the same, being against a Proclamation so lately published, and so straitly penned, and immediately after a severe sentence in the Star-chamber, his majesty hath directed that all such Offenders,( the number of which cannot be many being within the compass of one year) shalbe proceeded with in the Star-chamber. But as his majesty doth not think fit to admit at all to grace that kind of Offenders, so his Highnesse doth publish and declare, That for the other point of brick building, no man do hereafter expect any the like favour of Composition, as his majesty was pleased onely at this time for the avoiding of rigor and extremity to grant and extend: But his majesties will and pleasure is, That his said ordinance bee hereafter straitly observed, and maintained, and the offenders against the same with all severity punished. And to the end to remove and take away all colour of pretended necessity in that point, His majesty is graciously pleased that his former proclamations be explained and qualified in maner and form following, That is to say, That if any person that shall hereafter erect any building vpon an old foundation within the precincts limited in the proclamation published in the fift year of his Highnesse reign, shall make it appear, That either the quantity of the ground whereupon the old foundation standeth, is of too small a proportion to receive a brick building, or that the house is situate in so obscure or mean a Lane or Alley, as is not fit for such a building, or that the trade of such person as intendeth such building, is the trade of a retailing shopkeeper, and of such a nature as his shop and building cannot with any convenience be built with brick, and thereupon shall obtain certificate under the hands of the L. Maior, the Recorder, and the Alderman of the Ward, if the building be within the city or the liberties thereof, and under the hands of two Iustices of the peace, whereof one to be of the Quorum, if it be out of the city and Liberties, And shall further vpon the said Certificate, procure a licence under the hands of any four of his majesties privy council, whereof, the Lord chancellor, L. treasurer, L. privy seal, and chancellor of the Exchequer for the time being, to be two in allowance of the same, That in such case such person so building, shall not be deemed and taken for an offeder against his majesties proclamations, any thing in the said Proclamations, or either of them to the contrary hereof in any wise notwithstanding. given at our Mannour of Tuddington the 25. day of july, in the sixth year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1608. ¶ A Proclamation for restraint of the Shipping, and transporting of Horses. WE are informed that there hath been of late( through neglect of the laws of our realm, and such good orders as haue been taken) so great a transportation of Horses into foreign parts, as well for the number, exceeding reason, as in regard of the qualities and statures forbidden, as it hath both already caused an excessive price of Horses among our Subiects, and will with time vnfurnish the realm of sufficient number for use and service. For preventing whereof, wee do straitly charge and command all our Customers, controllers, Searchers,& all other officers of our Ports, and other Officers whatsoever, that they suffer not any horses to be shipped within any of their charges, or transported by what licence or warrant soever, except it be under our own hand, or under the hand of the Master of our Horse, until vpon some consideration had thereof by us and our council, order be taken how( in some cases agreeable to the laws of the realm, and without inconvenience to our Subiects) Horses of some condition may in reasonable number be permitted to be transported, and by what Warrant the same shal be done, and the better sort stayed within the realm for use and service. given under our hand at Holdenby the 14. day of August, in the sixth year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1608. ¶ A Proclamation for proroguing the Parliament. WHereas we did lately prorogue our Parliament till the seven and twentieth day of October now next coming; Forasmuch as the late increase of the sickness in and about our City of London, maketh us loth to draw a concourse of people together, so great, as the term and Parliament holding at one time would make, lest thereby an augmentation of infection should follow: We haue thought fit to prorogue the same again until the ninth day of February now next ensuing, at which day our purpose is( God willing) to hold the same, And do therefore hereby give notice to all whom it may concern, that they may frame their affairs accordingly, and attend at the same ninth day of February to that service. given at Windsor the fourth day of September, in the sixth year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1608. ¶ A Proclamation concerning Fines for Alienations of Lands holden in chief, made without Record. WHereas it is acknowledged by all men( as it must needs be) that Fines for Alienations of lands holden in chief, are of right due unto us& our crown, as one of the most ancient, just, and Royal revenues belonging to the same; And yet it is as well known, that Lands of that nature haue been, and are often aliened by feoffments, Grants of reversions, Wills, Exchanges, covenants, and other like conveyances made without Record, for which no Fines are answered, onely because the conveyances are not of Record, and therefore cannot come( without great charge) to the knowledge of our Officers, to whose care the same doth appertain, but are wilfully, and against conscience by the Purchasers hidden and concealed, whereas Fines are as well due in that case, as if the same conveyances were of Record, and are accordingly required and payed without exception, wheresoever they are discovered: In which respect, there was about a year past, in diuers Counties a course taken, as well to find out such Alienations without Record by Commissions of enquiry, and other lawful means, as also to require and take such Fines as should be found due according to the Law, of all those that should appear to bee liable to the same Fines. Forasmuch as we haue ever been inclined to use grace and favour, rather then severity, even in those things which all men know to be most clearly due to us, as in this case amongst others, wherein no man can challenge any exemption in course of Iustice from payment of a full yeeres value of the Lands so Aliened, especially being such as haue so ill deserved any favour at our hands, from whom they haue so long withheld our due,& meant still to do, unless they should be by some extraordinary care and charge laid open and discovered, we haue been pleased( notwithstanding all their former courses, so far to the prejudice of us in our just dueties and demands) both to make stay of execution of all and every of those Commissions, and other inquiries formerly sent out, whereof the charge and disquiet would fall heavily vpon our Subiects: and haue also resolved by this our gracious Proclamation to make known to all those who know themselves answerable for any such Fines, that we will be content out of our princely favour to forbear those means which will easily discover truth,& remit unto them the greater part of our Fines, according to the Articles hereunto annexed. provided always, that they shall willingly and dutifully pay the rest of that which we shall not forgive, for our own proper use into the Office of Alienations, where our ministers will bee ready to give them a discharge vpon receipt thereof. Of which great favour, ease and benefit, though we are well persuaded that most of our loving Subiects, as well in discretion as in duty, will be glad to take hold, and to yield us a grateful acceptation; nevertheless, because we haue had good experience that many persons are more apt to show themselves backward in taking hold of grace and favour, when the same is offered, then otherwise, we find it likewise necessary for us in cases of this nature( where by fraud and couine our ancient Rights are sought to be concealed or extinguished by the practise of private men, or are omitted or neglected by those that should search after things of that nature) to declare hereby, that whosoever shall not offer himself to make such satisfaction as is expressed in the Articles hereafter mentioned, before the end of hilary term next, at the furthest, must not expect any further favour at our hands, then that which they may challenge by the course of our laws, which no man can bind us to mitigate further then he should deserve, or we shall be disposed to do out of our inward clemency, which Princes seldom use, when wilfully the same is not accepted, according to that grace and bounty wherewith it is offered. given under our hand at our Honor of Hampton Court the first day of October, in the sixth year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1608. ¶ The Articles in this Proclamation mentioned. 1 NO Fines shalbe required for Alienations without Record, but where those Alienations were made sithence the fourteenth year of the late Q. Elizabeth. 2 The Fines for Alienations of Estates of inheritance past, shalbe for such as come in, and offer Composition vpon this Proclamation, but a third part of the yeeres value: But if they come not in between the date of this Proclamation, and the end of hilary term next, then to pay,( as by Lawe they ought) the yeeres value. 3 And for Alienations of Estates for lives past, the Fines shall be the fourth part onely of the yeeres value, if they yield themselves voluntarily within the time aforesaid, Or otherwise to pay the whole yeeres value, As in the case of Estates of Inheritance, the Law making no difference in these cases. 4 Vpon Alienations of Estates of inheritance that shall bee made hereafter without Record, there shall bee payed but two parts of the three, of so much as shall be due by Law, in such cases both vpon pardons and licences, if the parties themselves within four moneths after such Alienations made, shal first discover the same, and offer Composition at our office of Alienations. 5 Vpon Estates for lives that shalbe made hereafter without Record, there shalbe paid vpon licences and pardons both, but the half of that, that by Law ought to be paid in such cases, if the parties themselves discover the same, and offer composition within the four moneths as aforesaid. 6 The valuation of lands in these cases, shall not be made according to the very value, but as is used in the Office of Alienations, where these Alienations shall bee ordered as all others are: And therefore for instruction in that behalf, it will be necessary that the conveyances be brought& shewed to the Officers there. 7 No Fine at all shall be required vpon Alienation of Estates for life or lives past, where the Estate is ended without fraud. 8 Such as shall pay their Composition for Alienations past, shall haue this ease in passing of their Pardons, that many may be joined in a Pardon, and pay among them but the charge of one Pardon, and the same charge shal be no more then the charge was for the Pardons granted vpon the Coronation. 9 Such as shall pay their composition in such case for the time past, shall not be compelled to pled their conveyance in the Exchequer at large, as the use is. ¶ They that shall compound shall not appear in person, but may take order by Attorneys or Solicitors to dispatch that business in the term time at the Office of Alienations, where they shall find the Officers ready to give them dispatch. ¶ A Proclamation touching Maultsters, Common-brewers and Alehouse-keepers. WHereas the Kings majesty, for the better relief and sustentation of the poorer sort of people within this his kingdom, in this time of scarcity& dearth of corn and grain, did out of his Princely and gracious disposition, lately cause certain Orders to be generally published and sent into all the Counties, Cities, and principal places of this realm, for the serving of the Markets from time to time with convenient quantities of corn and grain, whereby the poor might be chiefly provided for with so much thereof, as should bee necessary for them at reasonable rates: And whereas it hath pleased God to give this year greater increase of Barley then of other grains, which of itself, or being mingled with Wheat or Rye, will make good Bread, especially for the poorer sort of people: His majesty is given to understand, that of this great quantity of Barley( whereof the greatest part ought and might be made into Bread as aforesaid) much is by the infinite multitude of Maultsters, like to be turned into malt as hitherto it hath been, and then again by Common-brewers brewed into strong beer and Ale, which consumes double the malt that is needful, and serves not for use, but for drunkenness and excess; Although both by the laws now in force, and by the said Orders lately published, there is provision against these abuses. His majesty therefore continuing his Princely care for the preservation and relief of his poor Subiects, And to the end that the great waste and consumption of Barley in making of malt may bee prevented, and that the poor may haue sufficient store of Barley to make bread for their sustenance at reasonable prices, in this time of scarcity of Wheat and Rye, Hath therefore thought good, and by this his Proclamation doth straitly charge and command all Iustices of peace, Maiors, Constables, Headboroughes, and other his Officers to whom it appertaineth, That they forth with after the publishing of this his Proclamation, do carefully and diligently cause the laws and Statutes of this his realm, concerning malt& Maultsters, and concerning the assize and price of beer to be put in due execution, and by all means to diminsh the number of Maultsters, and to establish good Orders to such as they shall allow still to malt for the sparing of Barley, as much as may be, As also to see that common Bruers, Alehouse keepers, and all others that sell Ale or beer, make their beer and Ale not too strong, but of such rate and price, as may occasion least expense of malt, and whereby they may utter their beer at low and reasonable prices, that the poorer sort may haue the greater proportion for their money. And his majesty doth likewise straitly charge and command all Maultsters, common Bruers, Alehouse keepers, and such as sell beer or Ale, to observe and keep as well the laws and statutes of this realm in that behalf made, as his majesties said orders lately published, and all other Orders and directions of the said Iustices of peace, Maiors, bailiffs and other Officers hereafter to be made, according to his majesties gracious commandement in this Proclamation contained. given under our hand at Thetford the 12. day of December, in the sixth year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1608. ¶ A Proclamation for the proroguing of the Parliament. WHereas we did lately prorogue our Parliament till the ninth day of February now next coming: Forasmuch as the dearth and scarcity of all kind of victual is at this present great, And if it should draw so great a concourse of people hither as the Parliament will bring, it would not onely more increase the prices of all things hereabouts( which are already very high) but also draw many Gentlemen out of their Countreys, where their Hospitality will give much relief to their poor neighbors. Wee haue therefore thought fit to prorogue the same again until the ninth day of november now next ensuing, Whereof we do hereby give notice to all whom it may concern, that they may frame their affairs accordingly, and attend at the same ninth day of november to that service. given at our palace of Westminster the 4. day of january, in the sixth year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1608. ¶ A Proclamation against pirates. THe Kings majesty, having been informed through the manifold complaints made to his Highnesse by his own Subiects as others, of the many depredations and Piracies committed by lewd and ill disposed persons, accustomend and habituated to spoil and rapine, insensible and desperate of the peril they draw vpon themselves, and the imputation they cast vpon the honour of their sovereign so precious to him, as for redress therof he is enforced to reiterate and inculcate his loathing and detestation not onely of the crimes, but also to manifest to the world his sincerity and exceeding desires for the due and speedy suppressing of the delinquents; And having lately found by many pregnant circumstances, that most of these great faults are continued by the connivence, or corruption in many the subordinate Officers, especially such as are resident in& near the Ports and Maritine Counties: In his Princely care to preserve Iustice, as one of the main pillars of his Estate, and for the speedy prevention of such fowle crimes, and the severe punishment and extirpation of such enormous offenders( most hateful to his mind, and scandalous to his peaceable government) and for the preservation and continuance of amity and good correspondency with all other Princes and States, hath with the aduise of his counsel thought it necessary at this present, to publish these Articles and Ordinances ensuing: Wherein if any shall be found culpable, refractory, or contemptuous, his majesty is resolved and hereby declareth, that such punishment shall bee inflicted on him or them so offending, that others may bee exemplarily forewarned, from committing so odious facts, and be deterred from aiding, relieving, comforting, or abetting such and so enormous malefactors. IF any person whatsoever shall vpon the Seas, or in any Port or haven, take any Ship that doth belong to any of his majesties Subiects, friends, or Allies, or shall take out of it by force, any goods of what nature or quality soever: he or they so offending shall suffer death, with confiscation of lands and goods, according to the Law in that case provided. IF any person or persons so offending, do at any time hereafter come into any Port or place of his majesties dominions, his majesty expressly chargeth all his Officers forthwith to apprehended him and them, and to commit them to prison, without bail or Mainprize, and that the name of the person and cause of his imprisonment, be forthwith certified into the admiralty, that speedy order may be taken for further proceeding, and execution according to Law, and the contents of his majesties former Proclamations. ALl his majesties Subiects shall forbear from furnishing, victualling, aiding, receiving, relieving, comforting or abetting any Pirate or Sea-rouer, or any person not being a known Merchant, by contracting, buying, selling, bartering or exchanging with him or them, vpon peril of his majesties heavy indignation, and the grievous pains by Law belonging to the same. ALl admiral causes shal be summarily heard by the judge of the admiralty without admitting any unnecessary delay, and no appeal from him shall be allowed to the defendant or defendants in cases of depredations or spoil, either for the Offenders, or their accessaries before or after the offence committed, or those in whose possession the goods spoyled are found, unless first by way of provision the sum adiudged be paid to the plaintiff vpon sureties to repay it, if the Sentence shalbe reversed. And no prohibition in such causes of depredation and spoil, and their accessaries and dependents shall be hereafter granted against the admiralty. NO Ship or goods taken from any his majesties friends, shall bee delivered vpon any other order, then vpon proof made, or certificate exhibited in the said Court of the admiralty, to the end that a Record may be kept of all such restitutions made to strangers, to serve if occasion shall require. ANd for the preventing of future mischiefs, every vice-admiral is enjoined by this Proclamation( whereof he is to take notice at his peril) to certify into the said Court of the Admiralty every quarter of the year, what Ship or Ships warlikely appointed, hath gone to the Sea, or returned within that time with any goods taken at Sea, or the procedue thereof, vpon pain to lose to his majesty( by way of Fine) for every such default, forty pound of currant money of England, to be answerable into his majesties receipt of the Exchequer, by certificate from the said judge of the admiralty, under the great seal of that Office, to bee directed to the Lord treasurer, and the Barons of the Exchequer. THe Viceadmirals, Customers, and other Officers of the Ports, shall not suffer any ship to go to Sea, before such time as they respectively in their several Ports, haue duly preached and visited the same, to the intent to stay such as apparently shal be furnished for the warres, and not for merchandizing or fishing. And if there shalbe cause of suspicion by the provisions, or furniture, or extraordinary number of men, or suspected persons therein, that the said Ship& company is otherwise to be employed then in merchandise or Fishing; then in such case of suspicion, the Viceadmirals and Officers of the Ports, shall stay and in no wise suffer the said Ship to pass to Seas, without good Bonds with sufficient Sureties had in the double value of the Ship, and her furniture, to use nothing during their said Voyage, but lawful trade of merchandise or Fishing. And if they shall suffer any such persons otherwise to repair to the Seas then is above mentioned, they shall suffer imprisonment until the offenders may be apprehended, and shall be answerable to the parties grieved, for their contempt and offence in this behalf committed. ANd whereas diuers great and enormous spoils and Piracies haue been heretofore committed within the Straits of Giblatar and other places by captain John Ward and his adherents, and other English pirates, and the Goods, moneys and merchandises haue been and are sold, dispersed and disposed of, most lewdly and prodigally by the means of their receivers, comfortors and abettors, to the great prejudice of his majesties good friends the Venetians, and others in league and amity with his majesty, whom they haue so robbed and spoyled: His majesty doth hereby expressly charge and command all Lieutenants, deputy Lieutenants, Viceadmirals and their Deputies, Iustices of Peace, Captaines of his majesties Ships, and all other Officers of the admiralty, and all Maiors, Sheriffes, bailiffs, Constables, and other his Officers whatsoever, as they and every of them tender his majesties service, and vpon peril of his majesties indignation, to use all care and diligence, and their best and uttermost endeavours, in the enquiring, searching for, and apprehending of all such pirates, their receiuors, comfortors and abettors. And if they shall by their traueiles and care find any of them, to sand them presently to the next common Gaole, there to remain without bail or mainprize, till the Lord high admiral of England, or his Lieutenant the judge of the admiralty may be aduertized thereof, and shall dispose of them according to the laws in that case provided. LAstly, forasmuch as his majesty is aduertized that this Pirate Ward and others, are made the more able to continue in strength and power, to infest the Subiects of all Christian Princes and Estates, by means of that receipt and protection which is given them in Tunis, algiers, and the places adjoining, His majesty doth hereby straitly prohibit all his Subiects whatsoever that shall go to Sea, that they nor any of them, shall sell, alien, barter, or exchange any Ordinance, powder, cordage, or any provision whatsoever, serviceable for the war or shipping, directly or indirectly, to or with the said Ward, or his adherents, or any other Pirate or Pirates whatsoever, under pain of death as accessaries in cases of piracy. Neither shall any of his majesties Subiects, residing for the time in Tunis, algiers, or in any other place in Barbary, or the places adjoining, or hereafter resorting thither, dare to buy, barter, exchange, or receive directly or indirectly any goods taken at the Seas, vpon any pretext whatsoever, under pain of confiscation of his own proper Goods, lands and chattels here in England, and such other punishment as by Law may bee inflicted vpon so contemptuous and grievous an offeder. given at Whitehall the eight day of january, in the sixth year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1608. ¶ A Proclamation for preservation of Woods. FOrasmuch as by a late view and survey had and made of the most part of our Woods in diuers Counties of this realm, It is certified unto us that great spoils and deuastations are committed, both within our Forrests, chases, Parks and Wasts, not onely by bordering Inhabitants, but even by Woodwards, Keepers, and other of our own inferior Officers, such as ought to haue had the chief care of the preservation therof, and also in and vpon our manours, Lordships and demesne Lands, by Tenants, bailiffs and Reeues, by their unjust taking, and improvident assigning Timber trees and Woods, far beyond all reasonable proportion of allowance: And forasmuch also as diuers apparent abuses, are likewise committed in the said places by sundry sinister practices to decay our said Woods, and to make them Windfals and pretended Fees; the continuance whereof hath been so long and dangerous, as without present reformation, there is like suddenly to follow such want of Timber and Wood, as by no future providence can be in meet time supplied; Forasmuch as we out of our desire to preserve and increase our Woods, of our Princely care haue hitherto forborn to draw any benefit to ourselves by sale thereof, And also for that we find, that by the practices aforesaid, and other the like, our said Woods are daily more wasted, spoiled, and defaced, then if wee did make an yearly competent revenue of the same: We therefore( as respective of the good of our posterities, as our own) haue endeavoured to take course to stop the said abuses, and all others too long practised, and to work the means not onely of better preservation of our said Woods in times to come, but also of a present multiplication and increase of Timber and Wood to all future ages. And to the end that our care may appear to extend to the preservation and increase of timber, as well in general to others, as to ourselves, We haue thought meet by this our Proclamation, not onely to divulge our special pleasure touching our own woods, But also strictly to command and charge all our loving Subiects in general, That in their own woods they presume not hereafter to defraud the true meaning of our Statutes in those cases provided, by cutting and falling the young storers, when they usually fell their Vnderwoods, which the Statute intended and appointed to be altogether preserved for Timber: Wherein if they shall be found to offend, they are to expect no favour, as doing an apparent wrong to the Common wealth, besides the breach of Law, and our royal commandement. And wee do also straitly command all our loving Subiects, That for avoiding of future spoils, they nor any of them presume from henceforth to commit any Act, under whatsoever colour or pretence, not warranted by the true intent of our laws, or the Grants made unto them, whereby our said Woods may be diminished, defaced or abused. And further, that neither our Keepers of walks, or Rangers, or other Officer or Officers whatsoever, in Forrests, chases or Parks, do under colour of browse for our Deere, Feewood or fuel for themselves, or other pretence whatsoever, presume to cut or take more then shall necessary suffice, without wasteful expense or colourable sale; Neither that they nor any of them, nor any other subject whatsoever, adventure to head or shred any Timber three or trees, but to take onely such lops for browse, as the trees which haue been usually lopped shall afford, and that not in greater proportion then is meet and necessary. And that no inhabitant in or near any of our Forrests, chases or Wasts, cut off the head or principal branches, or spall out, chip, bark or gird the bodies of any timber three, or likely to prove timber three, nor to cut or take any young saplings of oak, elm, ash, Beech, or any other three likely to prove timber, growing in any of our said Forrests, chases or Wasts, nor to enter into any of our Coppises or Vnderwoods, to cut, spoil or waste the same under any pretence or colour, except it be for necessary uses, and the same lawfully warranted. And that no Tenant of any our Honors, manors, Lordships or Lands, Lessee or Copiholder, do take any timber for Building, or decaying three for their fuel, nor any Steward, bailiff, Reeue, or other Officer, do assign any three or trees for any use, but that he and they see good warrant from our treasurer or chancellor of our Exchequer, or duchy respectively, except in small reparations which may require hast, Or such as may be amended with an allowance of a three, two, three or four at the most. In which cases the surveyors of the Woods of that County, or Steward of the Mannour, or three of the better sort of the Tenants of the said Mannour, dwelling in or near the same, shall and may view and consider of the cause of the said reparation or allowance, and allot unto them supply without such unlawful practices of favour or partiality, as haue been too common and frequent. unto which view and allowance, if it be made by the said surveyor of the woods, or Steward of the Mannour, some three of the better sort of the said Tenants, if there be so many, or four, where there be not so many, shal be also made parties and acquainted therewith, And thereupon such allowance being from time to time by such warrant or assignment made, we do straitly charge and command the same to be at the next Court of the said Mannour by the said Tenants presented vpon their oaths, that shall so view the said wants, or shall be acquainted with the same, Setting down in writing what and how many trees haue been delivered, vpon what land, to whom, and to what uses, and specially by what warrant. And whether the same were necessary or not, the same to be done truly and without partiality, as they will answer the contrary. And furthermore, whereas for the better maintenance and present supply of the especial wants of our navy, wee haue appointed and authorised our Officers of the same, by some skilful and expert persons by them to be chosen for that purpose, to elect and make choice in every of our Counties assigned for present sale all such timber and trees, as by the commissions to them directed, and the several articles therein contained, shall be thought fit to be reserved for the especial use of our said navy, and the same to mark for that purpose; We do now likewise by these presents straitly charge and command, aswell all our several officers within our several Forrests, parks, chases, manours and lands, as all other our loving Subiects to whom in any sort it may appertain, that neither they nor any of them, do at any time hereafter cut or lop, or suffer to be cut or lopped, any trees appointed and marked by our said Officers, or any of them, to and for the use of our navy, for any other use whatsoever, notwithstanding any Warrant that shall bee produced or pretended for the same, except the same Warrant bee signed with our own royal hand. given under our hand at Royston the fourteenth day of February, in the sixth year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1608. ¶ A Proclamation giuing a further day for Fines for Alienations of Lands holden in chief, made without Record. WHereas to moderate and qualify the Fines, forfeitures and losses, which we in our wisdom did foresee might prove heavy unto very many of our Subiects, that had made Alienations of their Lands holden in chief without Licence, by private conveyances without Record: We did of our Gracious inclination and royal regard of the quiet, ease, and benefit of all such of our said Subiects( whose Lands or estates were by such Alienations without Licence, made subject to answer unto us any arrearages, Issues or mean profits) by our Proclamation bearing date the first day of October last past before the date hereof, publish, propound, and offer certain favours, remedies and means of reasonable and easy Compositions for such Alienations, So as they did come in and take the benefit of our said Princely offers, and favours, before the end of hilary term then next ensuing the date of our said Proclamation, although such persons making those secret conveyances, of purpose to defraud us of our due, deserved no favour: Forasmuch as we do understand that diuers of our Subiects whom it concerneth, having sithence the publishing of our said Proclamation advised and considered with their learned council aswell of the losses, forfeitures& damages, which they haue incurred by reason of such Alienations, as also of the great favour and benefit offered unto them by our said Proclamation, haue and daily do humbly compound with our Officers of our said Alienations, thereby very thankfully and dutifully accepting of our grace and favour in that behalf: And being further given to understand, that the knowledge of our said Proclamation did so lately come into diuers parts of our realm, and to the understanding of many our Subiects, as they could not( through the shortness of the time prescribed by our said Proclamation) consider and resolve of their several Cases; Wee haue therefore thought good, according to our Princely and gracious disposition and purpose in this behalf, not to bind, or confine our favours to such straightness of time, as that our loving subiects should not be able therein to make use of the same. And therfore considering the weightiness of the cause, and well allowing that our subiects should haue convenient time to take counsel and aduise for the performance of their said Composition; And to the end that they may haue no just excuse, if they shall bee put to answer us our due, according to the Lawe, when they shall haue wilfully refused our favour: We do by this our Proclamation, publish, signify and declare, That all such of our Subiects as shal before the Feast of All Saints next ensuing, offer Composition to our said Officers of the said Alienations, according to the Articles contained in our said former Proclamation, shalbe admitted to make their Compositions accordingly, and shall haue and enjoy all such benefit, profit and favour, as they might or should haue had, if they had compounded within the time limited by our said former Proclamation, Any thing in our said former Proclamation contained to the contrary notwithstanding. provided that such as shall not take benefit of this extent of our favour, are not to expect afterward any further enlargement of time, nor other dispensation whatsoever in that behalf. given at our Court at Royston the 18. day of February, in the sixth year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1608. ANNO SEPTIMO jacobi REGIS. ¶ A Proclamation signifying his majesties pleasure, to confirm by all means the estates of his Subiects against all defects in their Assurances, and all concealed Titles. THe Kings most Excellent majesty( having always before his eyes a serious consideration of that great and weighty charge which is committed to him for the government of so many famous Countreys and people, over whom the KING of Kings hath made him Supreme head and Ruler, and doth expect at his hands( out of duty to his divine majesty) the same care and feeling of all things concerning his Subiects, which the natural head( by instinct of Nature) hath of the least member of the natural body; is pleased now, as well out of his long experience of regal authority, exercised in another great and ancient kingdom, before his coming to the crown of England, as out of the Rules of his own Iustice and moderate disposition in all things, to seek to be informed particularly and fully, Whether the courses that haue been taken, or may hereafter for enquiry or recovery of his majesties rightful Titles( cast vpon him by Law) may not more disturb and endamage his good and loving Subiects, then stands with the just measure of his own desires; who esteemeth his greatest riches to be included in the treasury of his Subiects hearts. In which respect, although his majesty is not ignorant, that by the rule of Law no time can prejudice the Rights of the Kings of this realm, but that contrariwise, the continuance of time is said in Law rather to increase, and aggravate the wrong, then to extenuate or purge the same; And that in many cases between subject and subject( by common experience) ancient possessions are evicted and overthrown by titles more ancient: Yet such is his highnes disposition, as he is willing to make them find, both the effects of his bounty and grace, and the due measure of his integrity and conscience. And therefore being informed by his majesties Commissioners and Officers,( employed as well ordinarily, as extraordinarily, in the care of his revenues) That the possessions of his Subiects, haue, and do daily fall within the danger of Law( as well concerning their Lands of Inheritance, as their Leases from his majesty or his Progenitors for lives or yeeres) by many ways and means; Not onely vpon points of defect in form, but even in points of substance most just and weighty; As in respect of exchanges with the crown, not duly conveyed or executed on the Subiects part; Of the falsity of considerations material, vpon which the Letters Patents haue been obtained; Of the falsity of suggestions, whereby the King hath been deceived, and sometimes ancient crown Lands haue been carried away, as if they had been but new augmentations of revenues by Attainder, or the like; Of Intailes made to the Kings of this realm, or descended to them from their ancestors, whereby it appeareth, that the King hath not been truly informed of his estate, when he made his grant, having no intention of disinherison of his Issue in tail, against the Law; Of referring to other Letters Patents, where many times there are none such, as by the recital are supposed; Of insufficient saving, or providing for that estate or benefit, which is intended to the King vpon the Letters Patents, by way of Exception, reservation, or otherwise; Of want of proper and apt words, such as the Law doth require, even in a case between subject and subject; Of passing their Grants under a wrong seal, contrary to the grounds of Law, or express Acts of Parliament; Of want of Offices, or insufficiency of Offices, whereby the Kings Title not rightly appearing, his Grants could not but pass in darkness; And many other the like defects in matter and substance, besides the defects, errors, omissions, and misprisions in writing& in form, which are no less dangerous in strictness of Law: And his majesty being further informed, That the possessions of his loving subiects may also be impeached and brought in question vpon other Titles not having any dependence vpon defective letters Patents, but vpon other points of diuers natures, and yet all warranted by the laws of this Land; As vpon Escheats by Attaindors or otherwise, vpon Title accrued by Dissolution, Surrender, Suppression, or relinquishing of Monasteries, encroachments vpon his majesties Wastes and high ways, which is a mere usurpation and intrusion vpon his majesties possession, not coloured by any pretence of Title; Vpon occupation of drowned land by time recovered from the Sea, which by his majesties prerogative belongeth to the crown; Vpon tithes detained, which lye out of all Parishes; vpon Alienations in mortmain, purchases by Aliens, and the like; And lastly vpon condition broken for non payment of Rent at the dayes appointed, and other the like Acts not performed: His majesty conceiveth it to bee a work worthy of himself to settle( as much as in him is) at once, a peace and quietness in the possessions of his Subiects. And as his majesty hath heretofore suspended the rigour of a legal prosecution in these cases, and turned it into a gracious composition, vpon a summary consideration of the title, whereby both the charge of svit, and the extremity of eviction might bee avoided: So his Highnesse understanding, that even that course of favour doth not answer or attain( in some circumstances) to that measure of grace, which he intendeth to his loving Subiects; Is pleased, that there be a cessation also of that former proceeding. And therefore although his majesty knows, that no ordinary form of legal proceeding, concludes the interest, nor time extinguisheth the right of sovereign Princes, that many prerogatives assist him, that the voice of the laws interprets the best to be taken for him, and that he hath all advantages, saving a heart that will take no advantage: And although the present necessity of his estate( whereof the splendour and greatness is so enlarged) may justly persuade any lawful improouement of the profits of the crown; Yet it hath pleased him, as a pledge of greater favour intended towards his Subiects, then ever they received from his Predecessors,( setting apart all other considerations of profit to himself, or power over his good Subiects in this kind) by this Proclamation to declare, that he is fully resolved, that all his loving Subiects shall partake of this grace, to haue all the states of their lands confirmed and made perfect, and to be discharged of all mean profits and issues whatsoever heretofore due or incurred, notwithstanding any of the defects or imperfections before mentioned, or any other whatsoever; So as their estates bee not by time expired and determined before, as in case of Intailes already spent and run out: In which case the detaining of any Land from his majesty is so injurious, as no private man could willingly endure to be so defrauded. For which grace and favour, as the subject shall be no further charged for ever hereafter, then by payment of five yeeres Fine at the uttermost, according to the old Rent, and the same to be ranted onely as it appeareth to be in value by former Office, by particular, or else by Oath or Affidauit, before some Commissioners without further examination thereof, or any maner of discovery or declaration of any imperfection or inualidity of their Titles in any of those things for which they made offer of Composition: So his majesty doth not doubt, but his discreet and loving Subiects( comparing all circumstances together, as well considerable in his own person as theirs) with due acknowledgement and gratitude will embrace this favour so graciously offered, and not to foreslow the time of acceptation of it, which his majesty doth hereby limit to bee before the end of Michaelmas term next, seeing they and their posterity may thereby bee so well secured in their estates and patrimonies for ever. For the perfect accomplishment of which his majesties gracious intention towards his loving Subiects, thus expressed by this declaration, his Highnesse is pleased by his Commission under the great seal of England, to give full and absolute power and authority to certain selected Commissioners of his majesties privy counsel and others, to give order and warrant for such Gifts, Grants, Confirmations, and other Assurances to be made and passed under the Great seal of England, or seal of the duchy of Lancaster, or by Fines to be levied, or by all or any other those ways and means as shal be found needful and requisite for the several Cases, And as by the counsel learned of the parties that shall desire such assurances respectively, vpon conference with his majesties learned counsel shall be thought fit and reasonable. And for their better and more absolute Assurance against all future doubts or questions whatsoever, his majesty doth by these presents publish and declare, that he is so willing to confirm and establish their estates, and possessions against all claims, Titles and exceptions whatsoever, that he is pleased that it be propounded to the next Parliament, That such Gifts, Grants, Confirmations, and other Assurances as shal be made in performance and execution of this his Princely intention, may be ratified and confirmed against him, his heires and successors for ever, by authority of Parliament; And also to give his royal assent thereunto, when they shalbe brought to that point: And doth likewise hereby promise to give to any his loving Subiects( that shall seek it) his royal covenant to be inserted into the books of their Assurances to the effect aforesaid. And for the ease of charge to the subject in passing such their Assurances; It hath pleased his Highnesse as well to give order that there shalbe an abatement of the ordinary Fees payed at the seals, as also to permit diuers persons to join in one Patent, till their several purchases do amount to forty Pounds according to the old Rent, whereupon the Composition shalbe grounded. And because the said Commissioners being most of them of his majesties privy Counsel,( and therefore ordinarily employed in the greatest affairs of the kingdom) shall not haue so fit means at all times to receive& hear the first motions of his majesties Subiects, that shall desire such new assurances as aforesaid; His highnes hath therefore appointed his attorney and solicitor general, to be ready from time to time to hear and confer with his Subiects and their. counsel concerning the premises, that they may bee sure to receive their dispatch with all possible expedition and favour. given at White-hall the 22. day of April, in the seventh year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1609. ¶ A Proclamation touching Fishing. james by the Grace of God King of Great britain, France and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, &c. To all and singular persons to whom it may appertain, Greeting. Although we do sufficiently know by our experience in the Office of regal dignity( in which by the favour of Almighty God, we haue been placed and exercised these many yeres) as also by the observation which wee haue made of other Christian Princes exemplary Actions, how far the absoluteness of sovereign power extendeth itself, And that in regard thereof we need not yield account to any person under God, for any Action of ours, which is lawfully grounded vpon that just prerogative: Yet such hath ever been, and shal be our care and desire to give satisfaction to our neighbour Princes, and friends, in any Action which may haue the least relation to their Subiects and Estates, as we haue thought good( by way of friendly premonition) to declare unto them all, and to whom soever it may appertain, as followeth. Whereas wee haue been contented since our coming to the crown, to tolerate an indifferent and promiscuous kind of liberty to all our friends whatsoever, to fish within our streams, and vpon any of our coasts of Great britain, Ireland, and other adjacent Islands, so far forth as the permission or use thereof might not redound to the empeachment of our prerogative royal, nor to the hurt and damage of our loving Subiects, whose preservation and flourishing estate we hold ourself principally bound to advance before all worldly respects: So finding that our connivence therein, hath not onely given occasion of over great encroachments vpon our Regalities, or rather questioning for our Right, but hath been a means of much daily wrongs to our own people that exercise the trade of Fishing, as( either by the multitude of Strangers, which do preoccupy those places, or by the injuries which they receive most commonly at their hands) our Subiects are constrained to abandon their Fishing, or at the least are become so discouraged in the same, as they hold it better for them, to betake themselves to some other course of living, whereby not onely diuers of our Coast-townes are much decayed, but the number of Mariners daily diminished, which is a matter of great consequence to our Estate, considering how much the strength thereof consisteth in the power of Shipping, and use of navigation: We haue thought it now both just and necessary( in respect that wee are now by Gods favour lineally and lawfully possessed, as well of the iceland of Great britain, as of Ireland, and the rest of the Isles adjacent) to bethink ourselves of good lawful means to prevent those inconveniences, and many others depending vpon the same. In the consideration whereof, as we are desirous that the world may take notice, that we haue no intention to deny our neighbors and Allies, those fruits and benefits of Peace and friendship, which may be justly expected at our hands in honour and reason, or are afforded by other Princes mutually in the point of Commerce, and exchange of those things which may not prove prejudicial to them: So because some such convenient order may be taken in this matter, as may sufficiently provide for all these important considerations which do depend thereupon; Wee haue resolved first to give notice to all the world, That our express pleasure is, that from the beginning of the month of August next coming, no person of what Nation or quality soever, being not our natural born subject, be permitted to fish vpon any of our Coasts and Seas of Great britain, Ireland, and the rest of the Isles adjacent, where most usually heretofore any Fishing hath been, until they haue orderly demanded and obtained Licenses from us, or such our Commissioners, as we haue authorised in that behalf, Viz. at London for our realms of England and Ireland, and at edinburgh for our realm of Scotland; Which Licenses, our intention is, shall be yearly demanded, for so many Vessels and ships, and the Tonnage thereof, as shall intend to Fish for that whole year, or any part thereof, vpon any of our coasts and Seas as aforesaid, vpon pain of such chastisement, as shal be fit to bee inflicted vpon such wilful offenders. given at our Palace of Westminster the 6. day of May, in the 7. year of our reign of Great britain, &c. Anno Dom. 1609. ¶ Articles to be performed by virtue of our Commission of Sale annexed, touching Forrests, parks, and chaces. INprimis, that you haue a special regard, that in the Sale no three be taken in forest, Chase or park, which carrieth not some apparent mark of decay, nor any three which you find marked by our Officers of our navy. Item that of decaying trees, there bee not sold in any forest, park or Chase, above two of the hundreth respecting the whole number of trees surveyed, or to be surveyed, nor any three to be cut, other then in places assented unto, by such as we haue appointed to take care for the beauty of the forest, park or Chase, and food for our Deere, nor any three to be cut or carried in fence time, to the disturbing of our Game, and that you may sell such two of the hundreth in places so assented to. Item for mere Dottards, and trees so decayed, that they bear no vert, serviceable for browse for our Deere, to sell of them what the country will vent, and at valuable rates, and the smallest of them to leave for the Keepers fuel, as shall bee hereafter assigned for him to haue by future warrant, And you must also provide and foresee, that all sorts of trees which shall be cut this season in any of our Forrests, parks, and chaces, be cut and carried thence before All Saints-tide next, or else the Buyer to loose the said trees then left vncaried. Item whereas by our Commission hereunto annexed we haue appointed the chief Officer of our Forrests, parks and chaces to be of the Quorum, with you A.B. whom we haue especially authorised for this service: You shall hereby understand that we do not determine to tie him or them personally to attend the execution of all things incident to this sale, but onely to assign what number of trees shall be taken, and in what places they may bee spared without any blemish to the beauty of our aforesaid parks, forrests, and chaces, wherein wee do command you A.B. to conform yourself, because in that particular we do repose principal confidence in his iudgement and discretion. ¶ Instructions to be observed for Sales in our manours, Granges, farms and Tenements. ITem as we haue prescribed you to sell in our Forrests, parks, and chaces, of trees that bear vert, onely such as are decaying, and that not above two in the hundred: so although wee mean not to limit you so particular a proportion for sales in our manors, Granges, farms and Tenements; yet wee would haue you know that it is our pleasure, wheresoever you sell any trees thereupon, that you haue a principal care, to forbear the felling of any trees, or faire tufts so near the Scite or mansion house( if there be any of any note) as may disgrace the habitation, and likewise to give warning to our particular Woodwards there, that notwithstanding any warrants which may come unto them, or haue come, for falling, or selling wood hereafter, that they also haue the same respect, And further, that you be very careful to leave in other places vpon the premises sufficient timber& wood growing, for the continual maintenance and reparations of the premises, and use of his majesties Tenants from time to time. All which directions first carefully observed, you may then sell such and so many trees, timber and other vpon our said manors, Granges, farms and Tenements, as shall be thought fit by you A. B our particular surveyor, one of the next Iustices of the Peace, the surveyor of the county of our lands where such sales shall be made, or any two of you, whereof you A.B. to be always one. Item for timber and other wood, growing vpon Copiholds of Inheritance, that you make no sale thereof, except the Copiholders themselves do seek it at your hand, whereby they may be more sure to haue the same vpon all necessary occasions at their own voluntary disposition. Item whereas you A.B. are now particularly chosen and trusted in this employment, for performance whereof we haue appointed you sufficient reward out of our own Treasure; we do hereby straitly charge and command you, to forbear to exact any fees from our Subiects, or to put them to any other payment, then such as shall appear to be solely due to us for the woods whereof you make sale, And that before you make any sale, you fail not publicly to proclaim your sale in the next market town, that men may know there is such a purpose in hand. Item, that before you do make any general sale in gross, of any great quantity of trees to any particular person, you do first make offer of such quantity to our Tenants dwelling vpon the premises, and next to such other our loving Subiects thereabouts, as may be necessary for them, in case they shall without delay resort unto you, and bee willing to pay according to the rate you might sell otherwise. And their necessities served, or they refusing to buy at the said rates without delay, then you may sell to other in gross such quantities as you shall find may most conveniently be spared, and for such prices as shall bee for our best profit. And herein we trust you will carry yourself so, as may be most for our good, and the general relief of our Subiects that lack timber, and not for your own particular interest. ¶ For increase of timber and fire wood in Forrests, parks, chaces, manors, and Tenancies to future ages. TO renew our ancient copices in places fit. To replant new Copices, where the soil will naturally breed wood, where it may be conveniently done without impediment to our Game, or disgrace of our Forrests, parks or chases. ¶ For wastes and spoils in what place or places soever. WHere wastes haue been committed, to inform yourselves thereof by all ways and means, to learn when, and by whom, those wastes haue been committed, as also to whom any timber trees, or any other trees, or fire wood, haue been sold, given, taken, or delivered, by whom, when, where, and by what warrant, and what was answered for the same, and what was the value thereof, to the onely end, the seller of the same may answer the value thereof. The commissions for sale in al the articles of these instructions to be directed to the particular surveyor, the surveyor of the county for manors, the surveyor general of the woods, the next Iustice of the peace, who, nor none of his Ancestors, nor any whose estate he hath, hath had any of the Kings woods there, in lease, or any office concerning the Kings woods since primo Elizabethae, or any two of them, whereof A.B. to be always one. The like Articles also in all points, and to all intents to be performed by the now Commissioners for sales of wood, in our Forrests, parks, chaces, manors, Granges, farms, and Tenements, within our duchy of Lancaster, and thereunto in any place belonging. Anno Dom. 1609. ¶ A Proclamation forbidding any person to carry packets or Letters to or from any City or town, by foot or on horseback, except such as are allowed by authority. WHereas heretofore sundry ways haue been devised to redress the disorders among the Pos●es of our realm in general, and particularly to prevent the inconveniences both to our own service, and the lawful trade of the honest Merchants, by prohibiting that no persons whatsoever, should take vpon them publicly or privately to procure, gather up, receive, bring in or carry out any packets, or Letters to or from any Port, City or town, by foot or on horseback within the realm, and to or from the Countreyes beyond the Seas, except such our ordinary Foot-postes, Posts and Messengers for those uses, as either by our Master of the posts, or the Masters of the posts general of those Countreys reciproquely, should be found nominated for that kind of service, or otherwise be able to show sufficient warrant for their Voyages& dispatches, under the hands of our principal Secretaries, any Ambassadors, or others sufficiently authorised; Which notwithstanding, diuers disavowed persons haue used to intrude themselves, contrary to all good order: In consideration of which inconveniences past, We do hereby straitly prohibit and forbid all persons whatsoever, directly or indirectly, to gather up, receive, bring in or carry out of this realm, any Letters or packets, without the allowance or ordinary address and dispatch of the said Masters and controllers of the posts reciproquely, or their Deputies, or shal be sufficiently authorised as is aforesaid. And therefore our will and pleasure is, That you the Lord treasurer of England, and Lord Warden of our Cinque-ports, together with our Master and controller general of all our Posts, cause public knowledge to bee given thereof unto all Merchants, both Strangers and others of our City of London, and all others whom it may or ought to concern, that neither they nor any for them, do hereafter take vpon them openly nor underhand, to employ any disavowed person in the carrying of their Letters, but to use such onely as shal be found lawfully appointed for that service. To which effect also we do expressly will and command by these presents all Maiors, Sheriffes, Iustices of Peace, bailiffs, and all special Commissioners, And more specially all Searchers of our Ports, and all other our Officers, and Ministers wheresoever in their several jurisdictions and Offices, to make diligent search of all Males, Bougets, and other carriages, of all such disavowed Curriers, messengers or suspected persons, coming in, or going out the realm with packets or Letters, and all such so discovered, to apprehended and stay, keeping them in safe custody, until by the view of their writings sent up to our privy counsel, it be seen and advised what shal be further done with them. given at our Mannor of Greenwich the 15. day of May, in the 7. year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. An. Do. 1609. ¶ Orders decreed vpon for the furtherance of our service, as well in writing, as riding in Post; specially set down, and commanded to be observed, where our Posts are established within our county of Kent. FOrasmuch as amongst the sundry consultations and provident cares taken for the maintenance of the quiet peace of the State, it hath not been the least that our Predecessors heretofore, and the counsel of this realm haue had to meet with the dangerous& secret intelligences of ill affencted persons both at home and abroad, by the overgreat liberty taken both in writing and riding in post, specially in and through our county of Kent, for the usual and frequent passage that way, falling out to and from all foreign parts beyond the Seas, the ground whereof still rising from disorders offered by certain persons called Hackney-men, Tapsters, Hostlers and others in hiring out their horses, to the hindrance of public service, danger to our State, and wrong to our standing and settled posts in their several Stages: We haue now thought it meet, with the aduise of our right trusty and well-beloved Cosins and counsellors Robert earl of Salisbury, our high treasurer of England, Henry earl of Northampton our Lord privy seal, and Lord Warden of our Cinque Ports, and of our trusty and right well-beloved counsellor, John Lord Stanhope of Harrington, our Vice-Chamberlaine, and Master of our Posts, to set down and establish certain Orders as well for the Packet as Thorough-Postes, the due execution whereof we likewise command and recommend to all Maiors, Portreeues, bailiffs and other Head-officers in the Cities, towns and Ports of our said County of Kent, where the Stages of our standing Posts are now established and appointed, and to the Iustices of our Peace next residing, as they or any of them do tender our service, the safety of our State, and will answer the neglect or contempt hereof at their perils. ¶ Orders for the packet. FIrst, that no packets or letters shal be sent by post, or bind any post to ride therewith in post, but such as shal be directed first for our special affairs, and subscribed by the writers name or sender thereof: neither shall it be holden for our affairs, but as the same shalbe directed and subscribed by our High treasurer, Lord Warden of the Cinque-ports, Lord admiral, principal secretary of State, Lord Lieutenant of the said county, or Master of our Posts writing from the Court, or otherwise to the Court, subscribed by any admiral, or Vice-admirall from the narrow Seas, Lieutenant of Douer-Castle, or Maior or his deputy of any Port-Towne, Ambassadors or Agents beyond the Seas for the time being, or deputy Lieutenant of our said county, writing to any of these personages aforenamed, or to the body of our privy counsel. 2 All packets or Letters so directed shall bee carried by the posts in post from Stage to Stage onely, and not otherwise nor further, being dated first on the outside by the sender or writer, and afterwards by the posts themselves, as they come to their hands, with the hour and place of their delivery, who shall run therewith in Summer, Viz. from the first of April, to the last of September, after seven miles the hour, and five miles the hour in Winter, which is the rest of the year, as the ways and weather afford. 3 And that it may appear from time to time( as oft as shall be needful) with what expedition the service is by our Posts performed, every post shall keep a faire paper book to enter the packets in, being so brought unto him, with the day, month and hour they came to his hands, two leather bags lined with cotton or bays, to carry the packet in, and horns to sound, as oft as he meets and sees company coming, or four times in every mile. 4 And to the end our posts attending thus our special service, may perform their several dueties in that behalf, our pleasure is, that they and every of them shall brook and enjoy the benefit of all former favours and immunities by our Predecessor allowed them: Namely that they and their seruants be holden free and exempted from all Summons, Prests, and personal attendances at assizes, Sessions, Inquests, and Musters. ¶ Orders for the Thorough-Postes. FIrst, as the service of the packet, so the horsing of al Through-Posts, and persons riding in post, with horn or guide by Commission or otherwise, shal be performed by our standing posts in their several Stages, who to that end shall keep, and haue in a readiness under their directions a sufficient number of Poste-horses, with saddles, bridles and furniture convenient: and if it shall fall out, that by the repair of Ambassadors, or other accidents of service, men riding in post, that is to say, with horn or guide, come so thick, or in such numbers, that their ordinary provision will not suffice, then the Constables of the places where they dwell, with the aid and assistance of the chief Magistrates there, and the Countreys adjoining,( being required in our name) shall take up, bring in, and supply the posts with horses and with carriages, where they may be had or hired. 2 And that it be not any way a let or impeachment to the liberty of any man riding on his own or ordinary affairs, within the realm at his or their pleasure: it is hereby meant that all Strangers, specially riding with horn or guide by themselves, or in company of our ordinary messengers or posts for the Low Countreys, or France, all ambassadors, riding or sending in their Princes affairs, and all other whatsoever, riding with horn or guide, shall take and change their horses onely of the posts of that place, or with his consent and appointment, they taking for each horse after the rate of iii. d. the mile beside the guide groat. 3 And to prevent all advantages of unconscionable dealing, by such as keep horses to hire, in the horsing of strangers beyond the ordinary Stages, to the wronging of our posts, and injury of the beast or the rider: It is found expedient, and our will and pleasure is, that all strangers born, as well going forth of the realm, as coming into the same, through our shire of Kent, although it be about their own& private affairs, without horn or guide, shall likewise be horsed by our ordinary posts from stage to stage, or with the Posts knowledge and consent, not taking for each horse above ii. d. ob. the mile. 4 It shall not be lawful for any so riding in post, to take and ride away the horse or horses of any man, not having first and aforehand fully paid and satisfied the hire, nor ride them further then the next stage, without the knowledge and consent of the post of that stage, nor charge any horse taken, to ride post with any male or burden( besides the rider) that exceeds the weight of 30. pound. And if it shall happen, any to disobey these our commandements, and orders, to the manifest wrong of any our posts, injury of any owner, or hurt of his beast: the Officers or magistrates of the place, vpon complaint thereof made, shall stay the party offending till satisfaction be made, or sufficient security given to repay the damage. But if it so fall out, that the obstinacy of any herein offending, require further punishment then the ordinary power of the Magistrate of the place can or may conveniently inflict: Then we require our said Master and controller of the Posts, vpon notice thereof given him, to sand for the party or parties to answer their contempt before our privy counsel. 5 This being in general our will and command, for the speedy, safe, and orderly expedition of our public dispatches and occurrents, as well in writing for our affairs, as riding in post, whatsoever besides shall fall out more particularly to the behoof of our said posts, or ease of their horses, that in these kind of services are most subject to abuses, our like care is to bee specially respected: and to that end wee do hereby eftsoons recommend both the one and the other to the wisdom and protection of our said Master of the posts, and the aid of all Magistrates and others that love the furtherance of our service, or regard our safety or pleasure. given at our Mannor of Greenwich the 15. day of May, in the seventh year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1609. ¶ A Prohibition for alum. james by the Grace of God, King of England, Scotland, France and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, &c. To all to whom these presents shall come, Greeting. Whereas we haue always held it one of the most just and necessary cares and considerations incident to the State and Office of Kings and sovereign Princes, so to dispose of their people and government, as the knowledge and use of good and profitable Arts and inventions may become common and frequent amongst their people, the same being one of the greatest means to increase and preserve the wealth and strength of State and people, Considering how contrary effects labour and idleness do produce, the one making kingdoms great and flourishing, the other always bearing the marks of beggary and contempt: Forsomuch as some of our good and loving Subiects of our realm of England, haue of late to their great charge, and no less commendation, found out and made proof of sundry Mines in our county of york, for the making of alum, a merchandise of great necessity and use sundry ways for all our Dominions, and haue so well and commmendably proceeded therein, that they are at this time able to make sufficient store of alum, not onely to serve for the use and expense of all our said kingdoms, but also within short space to afford and spare great quantities thereof, to be every year transported for the use and service of other our neighbour Kingdoms and Nations: And whereas the said persons, who by their skill and industry haue effected so good and great a work,( so often failing vpon other attempts) haue willingly and freely offered and yielded up the said alum Mines into our hands, vpon such Conditions as haue given them full contentment and satisfaction, all men being able to judge that a matter of that consequence, and wherein so many of our people should bee interested, was more fit for us to take into our own hands, then to leave the same in the power of private men: We haue now thought fit for the said considerations, and many other, to give order to our treasurer of England, and our chancellor of our Exchequer, to take the whole work into our possession, and for that purpose haue made choice of two of the same persons, that managed the same works before( being both of trust, skill and experience) to deal for us, as our general and special Factors and Agents, for the whole ordering of the said works in time to come. And albeit that by means of the alum made and to be made within our said realm, wee shall receive great hindrance by being deprived of such customs and other dueties, as formerly haue been usually paid unto us and our predecessors Kings and Princes of this our realm, for and vpon that commodity imported: Yet to the intent our Subiects shall not bee any way wronged, but in all points carefully respected and duly provided for in that commodity, Wee haue( out of our royal and tender care of our Subiects good) given express order and commandement, that our said Agents shall provide and cause to be provided, and at all times, and from time to time hereafter haue in their custody, in some fit and convenient Store-houses, both within the city of London, and within every other city and port town of the same our Realm of England, as shal be thought fit and appointed, sufficient quantities of alum, and that from the said Store-houses, all and every our people and Subiects shall and may from time to time, buy and haue thereof by lesser or greater quantities at their pleasures, so much good and serviceable alum, as they or any of them shall at any time require, and at such rate and price to be indifferently appoynted to bee paid for and vpon every hundred weight of alum so to be sold and delivered as aforesaid, as shall not give any just cause of discontent to any of our loving Subiects. These are therefore to require and command, all and singular person and persons whatsoever as well our natural born Subiects, as Denizens or Strangers, That none of them, nor any other person or persons whatsoever, do at any time or times hereafter attempt or presume to bring or cause to be brought into these our realms of England, Scotland or Ireland, or any other our Dominions, or any the Ports, havens, Creeks, or places of any of them, any alum in greater or lesser quantities, made or to be made in any foreign part or place whatsoever, vpon pain of forfeiture of all and every quantity and quantities of alum so brought or caused to be brought into our said Dominions, contrary to this our present commandment: The one moiety thereof to be to us, our heires and successors, and the other moiety to such person or persons as shall make seizure of the same: and also vpon pain of our high indignation and displeasure, and of such further pains, penalties and punishments, as for the contempt of our commandement royal in this behalf may any way be inflicted vpon them, or any of them so offending. And we do also further require and command all and singular the Officers of our customs within all and every the Ports of the same our Dominions, and the creeks and members of the same Ports, that they and every of them do from and after the date hereof at all times, forbear to take any entry or entries, and to take and make any composition for any custom, Subsidy or other duty, for or vpon any alum brought or to bee brought into any our Dominions from any foreign parts, and also that they and every of them( whom it doth or shall concern) do stay and seize as forfeited and confiscated to the use and uses aforesaid, all and singular such foreign alum, as from and after the date hereof shall be by any person or persons whatsoever, brought into any Port or Creeke of the same our Dominions, vpon pain of forfeiture of their Offices, and of undergoing our high indignation and displeasure, with such further pains and punishments, as for the same their contempts or defaults many any way be inflicted vpon them and every of them in this behalf offending. given at our Mannour of Greenwich the nineteenth day of june, in the seventh year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1609. ¶ A Proclamation against Hunters, stealers and killers of dear within any the Kings majesties Forests, chaces or Parks. WE had hoped, seeing it is notorious to all our Subiects, how greatly we delight in the exercise of Hunting, as well for our recreation, as for the necessary preservation of our health, that no man in whom was either reverence to our person, or fear of our laws, would haue offered us offence in those our sports, considering especially, that the nature of all people is not onely in things of this quality, but in matters of greater moment so far to conform themselves to the affections and disposition of their sovereign, as to affect that which they know to be liking to them and to respect it, and to avoid the contrary: And wee must aclowledge that we haue found, that Gentlemen and persons of the better sort( who know best what becometh their duty) haue restrained their own humors, and framed themselves therein to give us contentment: yet falleth it out notwithstanding, that neither the example of them, nor respect of the laws, nor duty to us, hath had power to reform the corrupt natures and insolent dispositions of some of the base sort, and some other of a disordered life; By diuers of which condition( since our offence manifested against those that trespass in that kind) and since our last coming forth into this progress, in places where wee lately took our pleasure in our own grounds, and near our own houses of abode, there haue been more frequent offences offered in that kind, then at any time heretofore, or in the late queens dayes were attempted: nevertheless, howsoever in her later dayes( being a Lady whose sex and yeeres were not so apt to that kind of recreation, having no posterity, and therefore less careful of conservation of that kind of royalty, which her progenitors Kings of this realm had maintained) people might perhaps for those respects presume of more liberty then became them, or the laws of the realm do permit; Yet in our time, being a Prince that haue manifested our afftction and delight in that exercise, and having posterity like to continue in the same disposition, when either their recreation or their exercise shall require it; It seemeth strange that men will now attempt to offend with more licentiousness, then at any time heretofore, and offer to us in our grounds, that which they will not endure each at others hands in their own. Wee are not ignorant, that there are some passions in mens mindes so strong, as hard it is but they will break forth at times beyond the bounds of reason, where commodity, pleasure or reuenge provoketh: But this offence being a trespassing against reason which hath no end in it, whereof can redound to the offender either profit or pleasure, honour or other recompense; We cannot interpret that the transgressions that are done therein do proceed, but either out of a barbarous and uncivil disposition, not fit to bee suffered in an ordered Estate, or out of an insolent humour and vnrespectiue to our person, no ways to be endured. And seeing that we haue manifested our Princely disposition to the maintenance of Iustice, and given as free and liberal scope to the execution of the laws of this realm, as ever did any of our Progenitors, We cannot but wonder that men should conceive that in these kinds of trespasses being so offensive to us, we would not be just to ourself and right the wrongs and insolences offered to us, in so special a branch of our prerogative, where the laws and Statutes of the realm, both Ancient and modern, do afford us so full and strong remedies, as appears by the Charter of our forest, as ancient and authentical, as the great Charter of the laws of the realm, and by other laws and Statutes, some enforcing the offenders( besides other grievous punishments of Fine and imprisonment) to abjure the realm, some punishing them with death, as judging them unworthy to live, at least in this well ordered kingdom, that cannot bridle so inordinate an humour, which reigning with so great violence in one excess, will pass on( if it be not checked) to all other extremities. Being therefore thus deeply provoked, and minding to use as straight and as severe means for the preservation of our right, and punishing of offenders in these cases, as the laws of our realm will afford; Wee haue been pleased notwithstanding out of our gracious disposition, to forewarn men of our purpose, by proposing to them the severity we intend to use hereafter, for redress of such enormities, knowing that such warning will either restrain them from giuing us offence, or( if their undutiful humour can be reformed by no admonition) make them the more inexcusable to us and our laws for their punishment. And therefore we do hereby signify to all men, that after the publishing of this Proclamation, our meaning is to proceed in this maner against all Hunters, Stealers, and killers of Deere, either read or Fallow, within any our Forrests, chaces, or parks. First, to extend against them all penalties whatsoever, which by the laws of the Forrests, or by any other laws or statutes of the realm are to be inflicted vpon them. To give a good reward to all such as shall inform us, or our Iustices of our Forrests, or any Lieutenant, or any other having charge of any our Forrests, Parks, or chases, of any offenders in hunting, stealing or killing of our Deere by any unlawful ways. And if the fault be found in any of our Seruants, or any towards our Court, or person of quality, he shalbe assured not onely to loose our favour, but to be debarred of our presence, or resort to our Court. And if it appear that none of those penalties shall haue power to restrain insolent mindes from committing outrages so wilful and unreasonable: We will make no doubt but that our Parliament finding the laws now in force too weak to roote out such an evil, will assist us with their aduise, to provide some further and more sufficient remedies for that purpose, wherein they are interested as well as we: for they that dare presume vpon us will not spare them. But our hope is, that our Subiects, knowing now again the offence we take at these insolences, and being warned of our intent, will not give us cause to exercise the least of these penalties, which we shall be glad to find, as well to see the conformity of our peoples minds to our disposition, as for the clemency of our Nature, unwilling to haue any cause of punishment against the least of them, especially in matter concerning ourself. given at our Honour of Hampton Court the 9. day of September, in the 7. year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1609. ¶ A Proclamation for the adjournment of part of Michaelmas term. THe Kings most excellent majesty, finding that the infection of the plague is at this present in sundry places of the city of London, and near adjoining to the same, though not( God be thanked) with the mortality of great numbers; yet so dispersed in diuers of the best and most open streets of the said city, as do give just cause to doubt, that the contagion thereof, by great resort of people, might be further spread, as well in the city, as into other parts of the realm, whereby danger might ensue both to his royal Person, the queen his dearest wife, and his royal issue, and to his most loving Subiects repairing thither for their suits and causes: His majesty, for these necessary considerations, and hoping that the infection will, by the goodness of almighty God, with the coldness of the year, and such wholesome Orders as are taken in his said city, the rather cease by the adjournment of part of this next term of S. Michael now at hand, from the utas of the same, until the fourth return of the said term called mensae Michaëlis next coming. His majesty therefore, of his special favour and clemency, is pleased and contented, to adjourn the said term of S. Michael, that is to say, in and from the utas thereof, unto the said fourth return of the said term, called mensae Michaëlis next coming; Which his majesty signifieth to all and singular his loving Subiects of this his realm, to the intent that they and every of them, which haue cause or commandement to appear in any of his Highnesse Courts at Westminster, in or at any day or time from and after the said utas of S. Michael, may tarry at their dwellings, or where their business otherwise shall lie, without resorting to any of the said Courts for that cause, before the said mensae Michaëlis next coming,& that without incurring danger of forfeiture, penalty, or contempt towards his Highnesse in that behalf. And nevertheless his majesties pleasure is, That two of his Iustices, that is to say, of either Bench one, shall the first day of Michaelmas term, called Octabis Michaëlis, according to the ancient order of the laws, keep the Essoignes of the said Octabis Michaëlis. At which utas of S. Michael, Writs of adjournment shall be directed to the said Iustices, giuing them authority to adjourn the said term of Saint Michael, that is to say, From the utas thereof, until the fourth return, as before is said. And the said adjournment shall bee made in the first day of the said utas, commonly called, the day of Essoignes. And further his majesties pleasure is, That all matters, causes and Suits, depending in any of his other Courts between party and party, as in his Highnesse Courts of Chancery, star-chamber, and Exchequer, Courts of Wards and liveries, Duchy of Lancaster, and Court of Requests, shall haue continuance, and the parties shall haue day from the date of these presents, until the said fourth return, as before is said. provided alway, and his majesties pleasure and commandement is, That all Collectors, receivers, Sheriffes, and other accountants, and all other persons, that should or ought to account or pay any sum or sums of money in any of his majesties Courts of Exchequer, Court of Wards and liveries, and of his duchy of Lancaster, or in any of them, or to enter into any account in any of the said Courts, shall repair unto the accustomend places at Westminster, where his Highnesse hath appointed such Officers and ministers, as for that purpose his majesty hath thought expedient, and there to pay and do in every behalf, as though no such Proclamation of adjournment had been had or made. And his Highnesse further pleasure and commandement is, That all Sheriffes shall return their Writs and process against all such accountants and Debtors, at the dayes therein appointed. And if any person or persons, who ought to account or pay any sum or sums of money to his majesty in any of the Courts and places aforesaid, do make default therein, That then his Highnesse Writs and process shall be awarded and sent forth against every such person and persons, and the same to be duly& orderly served, and returned by the Sheriffes and Officers thereunto appoynted, in such like maner and form, as the same should haue been, if this present Proclamation had not been made. And if any sheriff or other Officer shall make default, or be negligent in serving, executing, or returning of any the Writs and process aforesaid, That then every such sheriff and other Officer, shall incur such pains and penalties, as by the said Courts, or any of them shall be taxed and assessed; Willing and commanding all and every his majesties Sheriffes, Officers, Ministers and Subiects, to whom it doth or shall appertain, to observe and keep their assemblies and appearances with all their returns and Certificates, in his Highnesse said Courts at Westminster, in mensae Michaëlis next coming, then and there to be holden and kept, and there to do their Offices and dueties in every behalf, in like maner and form, as they should or ought to haue done, if this present Proclamation had not been had or made, as they will answer to the contrary at their perils. given at our Honour of Hampton Court, the 22. day of September, in the seventh year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1609. ¶ A Proclamation for the proroguing of the Parliament. WHereas we did lately prorogue our Parliament till the ninth day of november now next coming: For as much as the sickness hath of late somewhat increased in and about our city of London, by reason whereof we haue already by our Proclamation published the adjournment of part of Michaelmas term now at hand, The same cause doth much more require the proroguing of the parliament, lest so great a concourse of people as the term and Parliament( holding at one time) must draw together, should give occasion to continue or spread the Infection, both in the city itself, and other parts of the realm, which our care is to prevent. Wee haue therefore thought fit, to prorogue our said Parliament again until the ninth day of February now next ensuing, At which day our purpose is( God willing) to hold the same, And do therefore hereby give notice to all whom it may concern, that they may frame their affairs accordingly, and attend at the same ninth day of February to that service. given at our Honour of Hampton Court the 26. day of September, in the seventh year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1609. ¶ A Proclamation giuing a further time for the amendment of defective Titles. THe Kings most Excellent majesty, continuing still his royal intention, to extend his grace to such of his loving Subiects as shall seek the same, for confirmation of such Grants, as haue been passed to any of them, or their ancestors from the crown, by which his Princely favour, they and their posterity may be secured from the manifold dangers in which they stand, if by variety of time his majesties Title to their possessions should be set on foot, and pressed to their overthrow in succeeding ages: And having for that purpose lately published his Proclamation touching defective Titles, with a limitation of a day prefixed, which is now vpon the point to be expired, doth well perceive by report of great numbers that do crave the benefit thereof( which cannot conveniently be dispatched) that it was not any general neglect of his majesties grace and favour, that caused this late coming, but merely the accident of time in most men, whereof the greatest part passed on in the long Vacation, during which space, the Commissioners did not sit, nor the counsel learned remained in town, and the chiefest time, whereupon most men did rest their expectation( which was after Michaelmas) was likewise by the doubtfulness and shortness of the term much disappointed: His majesty is therefore pleased, for these and such like considerations,( by the aduise of his privy Counsel) to give once more, a prolongation of the same until the sixth of February next ensuing, to the intent that all such as haue any desire to receive this grace, may enjoy the benefit of Confirmation of his majesties grants of that nature by this Parliament, which is so immediately to follow, as that opportunity would not bee neglected, which happeneth not but vpon other extraordinary and urgent occasions. given at Newmarket the last day of november, in the seventh year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1609. ¶ A Proclamation inhibiting the Importation of Pepper from foreign parts, by any other persons then those of the East Indian Company. FOrasmuch as it is not unknown, That in former times when all or the greatest part of Pepper, and other Spices of the growth of the East Indies, was brought into this our realm of England and principality of Wales by strangers onely the same was then sold at very high Rates, until such time as some of our own Merchants did themselves trade into those parts, and bringing in good quantities of those Commodities, did sell the same at much lower prices, to the great relief and benefit of all our Subiects in general: And forasmuch as wee do find, That the establishment and continuance of this Trade, hath and will bee more and more an occasion to employ and increase the great Shipping of this kingdom, which hath heretofore been out of use, as being not so necessary for Trade in Countreys that are not so far remote: For these, and some other reasons which haue been delivered unto us, being desirous to encourage this Company, and to maintain that Trade by all good and lawful means; And experience teaching us, That if there should be, till the Trade were better settled, a free and general liberty for all persons whatsoever to bring in those Commodities, it would be an occasion to whereby the Trade, and strangers would of purpose vent their Spices at small rates, thereby to enforce our own Subiects to desist from trading into those Countreys: We with the aduise of our privy council, haue thought fit, for some time to restrain the Importation of Pepper from foreign parts, by any others then by the merchants jointly of the East Indian Company. And therefore we do hereby will and command all person and persons whatsoever, either our natural born Subiects, Denizens, or Strangers( not being the Company aforesaid) to forbear to bring into these our Dominions of England and Wales, any Pepper, directly or indirectly, vpon pain of forfeiture of the goods, and what other punishment they may incur by any contempt and default herein. And to the end, this our pleasure may be more duly observed, Wee do likewise charge and command all Customers, controllers, Searchers, Waiters, farmers of our customs and their Deputies, and all other our Officers of the Ports, within our Territories aforesaid, That they do not give any Bills of entry for Pepper that is brought in from foreign Countreyes, by any other then those who shalbe known to be of the Company aforesaid: Neither shall they suffer it to be landed, or being so, shall seize the same to our use as justly forfeited. And moreover, they and every of them, shall use their best means and endeavours to hinder and prevent all secret and fraudulent practises of such as shall seek to bring in that commodity, Notwithstanding this our pleasure published to the contrary. ANd because we are careful to prevent all inconveniences to the generality of our Subiects, in case they should be hardly dealt with under this restraint, by those that haue the whole mass of Pepper in their own hands; Although wee hold the Company to be compounded of many good& honest Merchants and others, yet because there is no society wherein all are of one temper, And out of the care we haue always had for the common good of all our people more then of any particular Society; we thought it not safe to repose so much confidence in a part of our people, as to leave the whole body subject to their wills, in matter of this nature. And therefore having well examined what might bee an indifferent price to yield to the Merchants competent gain for the maintenance of so great& long a Trade, and so needful for the support of navigation, and yet not be ouerchargeable to the rest of our people, who haue on the other side daily use of that kind of Spice; Wee haue conditioned with them, and limited, That they shall utter Pepper at the rate of two shillings six pence the pound, and not exceeed, to any that shall come or sand for it, vpon pain of our high displeasure. Which provision, and limitation being made by us in favour of the community of our Subiects, we haue thought good to publish and make known to all men, To the end that if it fall out, that such as by way of retail do utter to our people dwelling in places remote from our city of London, and other parts where Shipping doth arrive, that kind of Spice, there bee exacted any prices excessive, it may appear that the same is not for want of due provision made to prevent it, but by the ouergreedinesse of those which shall sell it. In which consideration, although we know, that there are many reasons, why those that sell by retail, should demand a further price then they pay for it here, as well in respect of the distance of place, forbearing of their money, as many other things incident to that kind of Trade: Yet the better to contain them within the bounds of reasonable gain, we haue thought good to make known thus much, thereby to express our own care of our loving Subiects, and to show them the means whereby they may avoyde such further burden, as may be cast vpon them by any that shall go about by any undue practise, to raise immoderate gain, under colour or pretext of that course which we haue taken for the reasons aforesaid. given at Newmarket the last day of november, in the 7. year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1609. ¶ A Proclamation forbidding the making of Starch. FOrsomuch as in the time of the late dearth and scarcity of corn and grain within this our realm of England and Dominion of Wales, We having received certificates from sundry parts and places of this realm, that great quantities of wheat and other stuff, fit and wholesome for the food and sustenance of our loving Subiects, being daily in great abundance spent and consumed in making of Starch, were a great mean to continue the said dearth and scarcity; And that the making thereof into Starch in places unfit for that purpose, was also very noisome unto the Inhabitants near adjoining; Whereupon, out of that tender care which we haue always had of our Subiects welfare, for remedy of the same, and of all inconveniences thereby incident, We were then pleased, to cause our Proclamation to be published, and by the same did will and command, That the making of Starch of any kind of stuff whatsoever, should be suppressed in all parts of our said realm and Dominion; Onely giuing thereby some small toleration, that some few selected persons, dwelling near our Cities of London& Westminster, should be suffered to spend and work out into Starch, certain small quantities of wheat, which having taken wet at Sea, were become musty, vnsauoury, and unwholesome, and altogether unfit for our said Subiects food, and were affirmed to bee at that time lying unsold, and decaying, on the hands of such merchants, as had formerly brought in the same from foreign Countreys, As by our said Proclamation may more at large appear. And whereas wee are now again informed by the credible certificates of several Iustices of Peace of sundry of our Counties, and chief Magistrates and Officers of Cities and towns Corporate, That out of the same our small toleration( tending rather to the benefit of the said Merchants, then to the increase or encouragement of Starchmaking) a far greater number of persons, even in all parts and places of the same our realm and Dominion, ever since that time haue, and daily more and more do set up and begin Starch-making in sundry places noisome and inconvenient, and that in the same they do comsume greater quantities of Wheat, rubbles of wheat, Pollard, and other stuff fit for our Subiects food, then at any time before the publishing of our said Proclamation, And that the said Starch is altogether made directly of Wheat, and other stuff fit for mans food, And that the making thereof cannot be continued within this realm, but that the same will be a great means to help and further the continuance of dearth and scarcity within the same, to the great and intolerable damage of the Common wealth; And that likewise the making thereof in places procuring such noysomnesse, may be one great cause to continue that dangerous Infection of the Plague, which hath( to our great grief) been generally dispersed amongst our people of late yeeres, by means of the same; And that it is no way beneficial to the Common wealth, but a thing of late time invented, and may more properly be termed matter of vanity, and pride, as it is used by inferior persons, then of any necessity: And therefore, to the end it shall appear, as well in this, as it hath done in all other our Actions since our coming unto this kingdom, what care wee always haue of the health, welfare and profit of our loving Subiects; And how much wee prefer any cause importing their good, before any gain or advantage to ourself, And that we rather desire, that all such benefit, as by the voluntary contributions of the makers of Starch within our realms, did formerly, and would still haue accrued, and become due and payable unto us, our heires and Successors, by means of the same Toleration given unto them, as aforesaid, should bee forborn and utterly lost, then that our people should always be subject to such, and so many evils and inconveniences, occasioned as aforesaid, or our privy counsel troubled with so many and often complaints against a thing offensive so many ways, besides that which is of greatest consequence, which is, the consuming of that which ought to bee respected for the food of man. And therefore, having with the advice of our counsel conceived, and seriously resolved, that it is very requisite, for the causes afore mentioned, absolutely to suppress, and utterly to abolish the making of Starch in all places of our said realm and Dominion; We haue thought good to signify our pleasure touching the same, to all our loving Subiects by our Proclamation, Willing, and straitly charging and commanding all and all maner of person and persons whatsoever, who at this time do use, heretofore haue used, and who do and shall intend at any time hereafter to use and exercise the making of Starch within any place or places of the same our realm and Dominion whatsoever, as followeth: Viz. That all, and every person and persons whatsoever, who haue presumed, and now do presume, in contempt of our former Proclamations in this behalf, wilfully to make Starch within our said realm, not being allowed, shall, and do immediately after the publication hereof, surcease, and for ever forbear, as well to make Starch, as to prepare or steep any maner of Wheat, Bran, Pollard, or other stuff whatsoever for that purpose, And that all, and every person and persons heretofore allowed to make Starch, do from and after the x. day of February next ensuing after the date hereof, absolutely give over, and forbear to provide, prepare, steep, and put in water, and to cause to be provided, prepared, steeped, and put in water, any wheat, Rubbles of Wheat, Pollard, bran, or any other stuff or stuffs whatsoever, with intent and purpose to make the same into Starch, and so to vent and sell the same. And also that they and every of them do, and shall from and after the tenth day of the month of March next after the date hereof; absolutely surcease, and for ever utterly forbear and give over to make or cause to be made, dressed, dried, and prepared any Starch at all of any kind of stuff or stuffs, by what name or title, names or titles soever the same or any of them are, or may be called, in any place or places whatsoever within our said realm and Dominion. And if any person or persons shall presume or attempt to do contrary to our express pleasure and commandement before declared, We do let them know by these presents, That he or they so offending, shall not onely forfeit and loose all the Starch by them so made, and all and singular their Tubs, Vessels and instruments wherewith they or any of them do and shall so make, or cause the same Starch to be made contrary to our will and pleasure signified as aforesaid, The one half of all which forfeitures shall bee, and Wee do by these presents give and grant unto the party finding out and seizing the same, and the other half thereof to us, our heires and successors, but that wee intend and are fully resolved to proceed against all such Offenders with all severity to the due punishment of the same their contempts of our prerogative royal, in a matter tending so much to the good and benefit of our people, and to inflict vpon them such further pains, penalties and punishments, as are usual in cases of such consequence. Wherefore wee do by these presents straitly charge and command all and singular Iustices of Peace, Maiors, Sheriffes, bailiffs, Constables, Headboroughs, and other our Subiects whatsoever, that( albeit they haue much neglected our other Proclamations in this behalf) they do now carefully and diligently see and take order, that our Pleasure declared in these presents bee from henceforth in every point fully observed and dutifully obeied, and that neither they nor any of them do, or shall suffer any person or persons within their several precincts to offend, or do any thing in this behalf contrary to the tenor of this our Proclamation, vpon pain of incurring such penalties and punishments to bee at our will and pleasure inflicted vpon them or any of them, being found negligent as aforesaid, as shall be thought requisite and due for their deserts. And furthermore, for that it shall appear that our purpose herein is not that the better sort of our said Subiects should bee altogether deprived of the necessary use of Starch, and to the end the price and value of Starch may not by this means in any sort be raised or augmented, But that the same may at all times hereafter bee sold and vented at as cheap and reasonable rates, as at any time heretofore whiles the same was permitted to bee made within our said realm and Dominions; Wee haue also thought good to signify and declare by these Presents; That from and after the publication hereof, it shall and may bee lawful to and for all manner of person and persons whatsoever, to transport and bring, and cause to bee brought from any foreign parts or places whatsoever( being with us in league and amity) into any the Ports and places of the same our realm and Dominion, such quantity and quantities of Starch as to them or any of them shall seem most meet, And( having payed and answered unto our collectors and other Officers of our customs, all and singular such sum and sums of Money, and other dueties as at the time of publication of this our Proclamation and from thenceforth are and shall bee due unto us, our Heires and Successors, for and vpon the same) to vent and make sale of the same Starch in any place or places of the same our Dominion, to their best benefit and advantage, as heretofore hath been accustomend. Any thing in these presents before specified, or in any other our former Proclamations or otherwise in this behalf, to the contrary thereof in any wise notwithstanding. given at our Palace of Westminster, the tenth day of january, in the seventh year of our reign of Great britain, France and Ireland. Anno Dom. 1609. God save the King.