State Papers, 1657: December (6 of 6)

December (6 of 6)

An information.

25th December 1657.

Vol lvi. p.302.; In the handwriting of secretary Thurloe.

That mr. Grymes, who marryed one of col. Washington's sisters, a woman of the countess of Newport, hath spoke with the lord Fairfax, by meanes of the duke of Bucks, and offered him, whether it were not fitt to undertake the king's cause, seeing himselfe so affronted here by this government? The lord Fairfax expressed himselfe sensible of the condition of himselfe and family, and of his usage by the protector; and said, that he thought since the dissolving of the parliament, which was broke up wrongfully, there was nothing but shifting and a kind of confusion; and that he knew not but he might chuse by his old commission as generall to appeare in armes on behalf of the people of these nations. This Grymes told to Ned Villers, and he to sir R. Willis, and said, that no body knew this but colonel Legge, who marryed the other sister of col. Washington. This Grymes is a man of 1000 l. per ann. lives sometimes in Petty-France in Westminster at his house there, and sometimes near Windsor by col. Legge's; he was one of the old king's servants.

Mr. Worsnam did also express to mr. offley of Hartfordshire much discontent for this usage of the lord Fairfax by his highnesse; and said, that the lord Fairfax had laid it up, and would remember it when there was occasion. Wyldman told one, from whom sir William Compton had it, that they had sent over some persons, and named Will. Howard, to C. Stewart, with an account, that all things were ready, and what plot they had laid against the protector's life. Mr. Candelor and mr. Alexander, two knowne ministers in Suffolk, were lately in London.

Col. Edward Coke, a great freind of Mr. Grymes. Agreed, that an account be writt to H. H. of what Rolston faith.

Mr. Longland, agent at Leghorn, to secretary Thurloe.

Vol.lvi. p. 290.

Right honorable,
This week the great duke has commanded a feast of three dayes in the citty of Pisa, wher his court now is, for joy of a son born to the king of Spayn: his hyhnes wil be here next week, when 'tis believed this citty must lykwys celebrat thre dayes of feast for the sam occasion. Notwithstanding the winter-seson, yet the duke of Modena makes deep inroads into the state of Millan, to the Spanyards great damage. 'Tis alredy frequent discourse here, that upon the birth of this son, the king of Spayn will give his daughter to the king of France for wyf, and so conclud a peace.

The queen of Sweds murdering her Roman marques has much displeased the pope and al the court of Rome, whither if she should again repair, I suppos she would fynd but cold welcom. The Majorkins wil hav theyr fleet abroad by the end of this month, which wil prov an utter ruin to most of our merchants ships, without some frigats for protection. The consideration whereof is humbly commended unto you by,
Right honorable,
Your faithfull servant,
Charles Longland.

Leghorn, 5 January. [N. S.]

At this instant aryved a smale Inglish ship in 23 days from Smyrna, with advys, that the Turks had taken the ysle of Lemnos from the Venetians, with the los of 4000 men. The gran signior was at Adrianople with a great army, marching towards Christendom.

Extract out of the register of the resolutions of the H. and M. lords states-general of the United-Netherlands.

Sabbathi, the 5th January 1658. [N. S.]

Vol.lvi.p.289.

The lord Nieuport, one of their H. and M. L. embassadors extraordinary in England, brought hither by occasion of the report made here yesterday two of the golden medals formerly made and designed for the merchants at London, who interposed themselves as caution for the mony, which this state was to pay by virtue of the treaty of peace with the government of England: and it being observed, that the said lords embassadors at that time, having laid off their publick character, were also caution for the said monies, and counter-securities to the said merchants: after consideration had, it is resolved, that to each of the said embassadors the like medal shall be given: to which end the goldsmith Vander Maa is ordered to make the like medal. The lords commissioners of Zealand declare to have no order for the said business.

Monsieur Dormesson to Bordeaux, the French embassador in England.

Calais, 5 January 1658. [N.S.]

Vol. lvi. p. 288.

My lord,
There is nothing can be more advantageous for the preservation of Mardyke, than the answer, which you wrote me word to have received from the lord protector; and that he is resolved to send some pallisades, and fifty thousand pounds of gun-powder; to oblige all the officers to return thither; and to render to major-general Morgan military obedience; and last of all, to furnish all things, which they shall stand in need of, except provisions and pay.

He also gave you very good advice, to furnish all our ports with necessaries, in case of necessity; and that the contrary winds might hinder the English ships from getting out of the river. But in regard this difficulty is not at present, and that the wind is good, I make no doubt, but the mareschal d'Aumont will suddenly receive the marks of the lord protector's good will.

I expect with impatience the news of ther arrival at Mardyke of the four ships, which you have freighted with hay, for the subsistence of the horse of his eminence, which cannot subsist there long without it.

It would have been very advantageous to the king, if you could have prevailed to have the carriage given you; for I believe the charge will be great. I pray let me know what the one and the other will come to, that so we may see, whether it will be the best husbandry for the king, to have the hay bought in England.

The alarm, which the march of the enemy gave us towards St. Venant, is ceased by their return into their quarters; yet being altogether, they obliged us to stand upon our guard.

Monsieur the mareschal d'Aumont is still at Mardyke, causing them to work incessantly opon the fortifications, to put them in a good condition.

Monsieur de Turenne is gone to Paris, and the troops march into their winter-quarters.

Col. Tho. Cooper to H. Cromwell, lord-deputy of Ireland.

In the possession of the right hon. the earl of Shelburn.

May it please your excellency,
Haveing receaved your's of the 22th instant, I shall not fayle (if the lord permit) to wait upon your lordship on wednesday or thorsday next; and if your lordship conceave I may bee spared in order for my goeinge for England, not onely the publique busines upon mee, but the condition of my wife calls veary loud for my goeinge; but I shall submit it to the providence of God, in your lordship's determination. As for being one of that other house, I, that should know myselfe best, doe indeed without complement think myselfe veary unfit for that soe great imployment, and should rejoyce to see a person more fit appointed. The worke is exceeding great in my eye; and I am suer I have little abillety to engage in it. The Lord spirit all them, that are appoynted to it, and make them men of courage, walking humbly and closely with God, and then they will know his will, and bee able to doe it, and bee for and bands to these poore devided nations, and bee (as instruments) repairers of our breaches, and restorers of pathes to dwell in. I have not more at present, but to intreat the good will of him, that dwelt in the bush, to lead you, and guide you in all your wayes; in whom I am,
Carrickf. Dec. the 26th 1657.

My lord,
Your excellencyes veary faithfull servant,
Tho. Cooper.

To the Venetian agent.

Antwerp, 6th January 1658. [N. S.]

Vol. lvi. p. 309.

Now the English in Bourburgh and Mardyke may live quietly for these two months, January and February, our army being retreated into their winter-quarters. Those of Mardyke doe still die of the contagious disease (whereof many are already dead) which is amongst them; which is a worse war, than that of the sword.

Now that there is an upper-house appointed, it's a sign, that the lord protector will be crowned, which may cause some alteration.

There hath been a great rejoycing in Spain for many days together for the birth of the young prince; but I do not hear they have resolved thereupon any thing for the relief or assistance of these parts, which is so much material; but I hope God will assist us.

Capt. R. Stayner to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvi.p.318.

Right honorable,
Theis are to acquaint you, that according to your desire, I have sent a shipp into Holland, with the merchant and captain Compton, whom you writ to me about; and likewise the hay-shipps are gone to Mardike. I have sent orders, that what amunition is wanting in the fort the fleet should furnish them: to that end I have sent the commander in chife there forty barrells of powder, and stores, to make them case-shott for their gunns, and as many great shott as we could; likewise another shipp, which major-generall Morgan writt to me yesterday, and desired me to hasten over the coles that were bought at London for them: I know nothing of it; but only a vessel of powder, that I expect every day to come down for Mardyke. The shipps, that formerly were ordered abroad upon the service required by his highness, are still in their stations. We have intelligence from the Groine 14 days since, by shipps that came thence with men that had been taken, and are now come home in cur shipps; they say, that at present there are but two small men of war there, and not a shipp more besides. There was 12 days since two shipps from St. Sebastian, who say, there is no shipps there, only small men of warr, and not any else, besides some prizes. There is no likelyhood of any attempt against Mardyke, as I am given to understand from major-generall Morgan. Haveing no more at present, only that I am
Aboard the London,
Downes, 27 Dec. 1657.

Your honor's humble servant,
Richard Stayner.

The grand-duke of Thuscany to admiral Stoakes.

Vol. lvi.p.315.

Illustrissimo signiore,
Jo ho sempre proccurato con ogni maggior premura, che ne miei stati si amministri la giustizia a tutti con qualla rettitudine, che conviene; & che i forrestieri particolarmente abitanti in Livorno siano esenti per quanto si puo dalle vessazioni & dagli incomodi, que porta seco in consequenza il prosequimento delle cause cosi civili come criminali il que porta esser attestato a V. S. illustrissima dal consolo & altri della natione Anglese che hanno occasione in questa parte di chiamarsi sadisfatti per la parzialita d'affetto che ho sempre riguardato i loro interessi & oltre ai tribunali che sempre stanno aperti in questa citta & in Livorno non ho lasciato quando me ne estata fatta instanza di deputar giudici delegati, & di usare ogni rigore con loro a chi veniva accusato di transgressioni & di mancamenti suppongo pertanto, que V. S. illustrissima sia stata informata sinistramente ne dice fatti rappresentarmi da leigia, que an che in quelli non si e mancato & non si manchera di far giustizia a chi la demanda & se per metzo di qualche persona non interessata & senza passione, V. S. illustrissima. Vorrà meglio venirne in cognizione, si trovera modo che ella resti appagata delle nostre regioni apresso l'osservanza che io professavo verso il serenissimo protectore defunto, si conserva da me nel' istesso grado verso S. A. Che siegna al presente con un vivo desiderio di servitio in tutti le occasioni & a V. S. illustrissima resto augurando tutte le prosperita.

Di Pisa, 7 Gen. 1658.

Al piacer di V. S. illustrissima,

Timothy Lanisley to secretary Thurloe.

Leith, Dec. 28, 1657.

Vol. lvi.p.331.

Sir,
Since my last I have had much busines, by reason of these two reducements, my company being at Inverloghy in the Highlands. I am ordered by my lord to post away all dispatches, and all other necessaryes for the whole partie, which prevented my writeing soe soone after my list, as I promised. You may please to take notise, that there hath lately beene two male Quakers at Loughmabor, and there came into the garrison among the souldiers, but was suddainly repulsed by the governor. Thence they went to Donstasness-castle, and for other parts; but after they had marched a daye's journey, they returned back to Loughmabor, and there declared in the town, that the spirit within them bid them goe back, and that they had a message to deliver to the garrison. They stayed severall dayes in the town, but whether they were admitted into the garrison or not, I have not heard; only so much I had from my lieutenant, they still send new ones almost every week into these parts, and hence they spread North and West. The two women are now gon West, and some others North. They spare no pains, and voluntarily goe into those places, where they may meet with most want of outward things; which makes them the more admired, if not adored, at their returne by their disciples. They say, that they know they shall overspread the face of the earth: and when any oppose their way, they seem to prophecy, and tell them, they may oppose the truth for a time, but they know, they shall be of the same mind within 3 yeres to come. And since the putting of som of them out of the army they sometimes upbraided the officers, and told them, that they deny the truth, fearing the loss of their places; otherwise they knew and could defend, that many of them are convinced by the light that is within them. Our women Quakers in this towne have learned this lesson well of late, and often repeatt it to their husbands. They have hired a chamber in this towne to meet in, and have another at Edinburgh; soe that they meete dayly. They have got a small parcell of Scotts into their crew, I thinke about a dusine; and they have great hopes of gaining a lady in Edinburgh, and boast of many converts in the West. The Anabaptists bemone themselves much in pryvat, and blame themselves for many things, which they say hath caused them to be outwitted. This terme one of the cheife urged to me this day, and instanced one particular, which was, that they had omitted settling learned pastors and teachers, and dun themselves harme in letting all sortes of members thereof; and that those that was without, was made thereby contemned by many, that otherwise might, as they thinke, now have been drawne in, seeing to reserve som other resorces, whereby he concluded they had been outwitted. I only tell you this, that you may know how all pulses beat; and that for prevention, that thereby I might endeavour, as farr as in me lyes, to preserve the good peace of these nations, which is my ultimate end, and for which I shall be ever,
Sir,
Your honour's cordiall servant,
Timothie Langley.

Collonel Ashe to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvi. p. 337.

Honored sir,
Your's of the 22d present I received the last weeke, and doe give you my harty thanks for the advice you have ben pleased to afford me touching my comeing to the parliament. Upon your advise I am resolved (if the Lord be pleased to give me health) to be at Westminster the first day of the parliament, that I may give my best assistance after the perfecting the happy settlement, which is soe much expected and desired by all those, that love his highnesse and the peace and safety of these nations. I have at present received the note of intelligence here inclosed, which tho' it be short and of small consequence, yet I thought fitt to send it unto you, hopeing, that you will accept (tho' never soe meane) the service and the hartie wishe of,
Sir,
Your honour's most humble servant,
John Ashe.

Freshford, 28th Dec. 1657.

D'ormisson to Bordeaux, the French embassador in England.

Calais, this 8th of January 1658. [N.S.]

Vol. lvi. p. 335.

My lord,
I will begin my letter with the business of the English companies; and I will tell you, that those that were quartered at Guisnes came to this city three days since, and are imbarqued for Mardyke.

In regard his eminence hath charged me in all his letters to take special care of them, I have done all what lay in my power to accommodate them with all things necessary. These troops were conducted by a few officers, and they seem'd to me to be very feeble.

I cannot impute this diminution to any thing else but to their officers, who are most of them absent, and the rest took no care at all of their sick men. I know they were well look'd unto in their quarters, which were good ones, and exactly paid; whilst the French soldiers were forced to camp in huts, and without any pay.

The king being informed of this diminution, and having a desire to put that body in a good condition of service, his eminence did me the honor to write me word, to separate all the English that were at Guisnes (not knowing as yet of their march to Dunkirke,) and to distribute them in Bolonois, that so they might have more liberty, and in a condition of better accommodation; and to oblige all the officers to keep their quarters, and take care of their men. I have received order from the king not to pay any but those, that are present, and to take an exact account of all the companies, which are to be an hundred men each by the treaty, which I now find to be reduced to half the number.

I shall entreat your lordship, to let the lord protector know, that here is not only justice but prudence in this resolution of his majesty, not to pay those officers, that are absent; for there ought to be a distinction made between those that serve, and those that are absent.

Lord Broghill to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvi. p. 358.

Deare sir,
I Only send you this to acquaint you, that havinge recovered as much strenth as did make me to use a coach to the ship-side, the first faire winde I sett to sea; and after part of soure dayse and three nights beinge tumbled on it, it pleased God to send us safe to Minhead in Somersetshire. I doe intend for a few dayse to rest at my owne house, to recover the better use of my feet; but if you have any commands for me at London sooner, be pleased to signify them to me by the post, directinge your letters for me to the postmaster of Bathe in Sommersetshire, and they shall, God willinge, be forthwith obeyed by,
Deare sir,
Your most affectionate, and most oblidged humble servant,
Broghill.

Be pleased to present my humblest duty to his highness.

From Orchard, squire Windham's house, a member of parliament, 6 miles from Minhead, the 29th of December.

Mr. J. Dunch to secretary Thurloe.

Hursly, the 29th Decemb. 57

Vol. lvi. p. 360.

Honored sir,
By the last letter, that came from his highness, wee are ordered to meete and consult about the best course for secureing those officers, that have bene active of late, which formerly have bene in the king's party or papists. Now, sir, I cannot find but that they are generally involved in one and the same designe: but that there is a plott amongst them, is undoubtedly true; but which way and when they doe intend to putt it in execution, I find not. By the best and strictest intelligence I can get, I doe really think it will be some night-action, by way of surprize, if not murder, which some of them in their cupps (I mean of an inferior sort) have lett fall: but I have sent night-spies, to attend their motions, that so, if it please God, we may prevent so wicked a conspiracy. But these things are not positive, as a ground sufficient for me to secure that party without a speciall warrant from his highness; for indeed I have noe particular charge against any of the greate ones; if I had, they should be sure to heare of mee. But as generally for mee to secure, and not to be able to prove particularly against them to his highness or the councill, will not be significant without a speciall command, which as soon as it comes to my hand I shall cause speedily and effectually to be put in execution to the utmost of my power and ability, although indeed I cannot but to myself but we when one or other receiving some of my men I find and see so ill fitted with horses, by reason of the long discontinuance of their pay, almost looking on themselves as not concerned; but they do begin to hold up their droopping heads on his highnesse's favour to them in promiseing pay. Now sir, if you please to favour us so farr, as to give a furtherance to it with his highness, if it be but half a year's pay, that so I may but call them together, I doubt not but (through the blessing of the Lord) we shall be able to oppose our loftiest enemys; for truly, sir, many honest men of my troope have not soe much in the world to command as to lay long from theyr familys or duty, without a supply. Indeed, sir, I had not troubled you on this theame, had it not been in order to service. Sir, I find the Quakers interpose here in theyr design; for one of them was saying not long since, that ere long we should have our bellies full of blood: the fellow is a factious busey-body man; he lives in Southampton: and there is one captain Every, an eminent man amongst them, that hath arms enough to arm a company. This Every is one of the excise, and a great Quaker. Now if his highness please, that these arms may be taken from him, it will arme one of our militia-company in that towne; and it will be a great strengthening to this place, for the town is very considerable, and there is but one company of the army there, which indeed is very diligent in their worke. Sir, there is one Wormstall in Southampton, that carrys all the letters both for the Cavaleers and Papists, which I did formerly tell you of, but nothing was done in it. If you thinke good, that his pacquett may be secured, I beleive it may be usefull to you. I beleive he is punishable by the ordinance for postage. Sir, there are, as I am credibly informed, letters brought to Christ-church by boats from beyond sea and other parts of this nation to the Papists and Cavaleers in the New-forest, and in Wiltshire and Dorsetshire, that are ad jacent; what his highnesse's pleasure is, shall be observed as to them. Sir, I am conscious I have bene too tædious, but I beg your favourable construction; with assurance, that I am,
Sir,
Your honor's humble servant,
Jo. Dunch.

Mr. Edward Bowles to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvi. p. 362.

Sir,
You will give me leave so farre to observe Christmas, as to send you this letter for a new-yeare's gift; and I shall therein give you some account of the Christmasspirit, that I perceive stirring in this and other places. For my owne part, I am so ignorant in the mystery of the good time, that I resolved to heare a sermon preached on that occasion, to try if any would informe me better about it; and accordingly on fryday last went to a publick meeting-place, to heare one mr. Geldart, who uses to preach upon that day, pretending the generall libertie; where instead of arguments I met with anathemas; he telling us, that he doubted not to declare him a schismatick, who did not observe Christmas-day; and further, that he that denyed to keepe that day, deserved not to live another day; which to me were strange passages, and discovered that spirit to come to such a height, as was not long to be endured. Besides, in his prayer he had this passage, Lord, when thou makest inquisition for blood, remember that, which hath been shed within the walls of our Jerusalem; and prayed for his owne party under the name of orthodox, and for a reparation of their losses in these times, with other untoward expressions, which I cannot remember. The person is inconsiderable for learning or life, but serves to uphold the enmity betwixt the seeds. I have long desired and studyed a way for his removall (knowing him to be incapable of doing any good in his place) but know not well how to accomplish it, save by a tryall of his sufficiency, which is doubtfull, for the office; and if it fall not out well, will make the busines worse. But the plaine trueth is, unles some quick way to purge cityes and considerable places of such personsand practises, they will in a short time sett all on fire; for notwithstanding all the freedome they enjoy, and faire quarter that is given them, they have a most implacable spiritt against those that differ from them, and are not one jot amended by any lenity. So that though my owne temper and principle incline as much to moderation as any man's, yet I verily thinke, that they are not a proper object of it; for though their opinions seeme not heinous, yet they involve with them so much hatred and contempt of those that are good, and open such a way to a desperate faction in the state, that they are not to be borne, especially some of them. As the people of any nation, so more especially this are as soone stired to sedition upon the account of religion as any other, as experience of former times doth witnes: and if this spiritt hath but a little more forbearance, through the nature of quarrells of religion, and the strong propensity of the people to wayes of superstition, they will grow very fast upon us, and a fire come out of the brambles, to consume the cedars. Therefore, seing these things will not weare out, as I thought they would have done, I thinke they must be torne a peeces into ragges as they are, rather then so great a hazard runne, as by patience may possibly fall out. I am sure, many sober and godly persons will looke upon it as a very acceptable thing, to see these persons and doings throughly discountenanced, by which ill affected ones hold their interest in the common people. But I have deteined you longer then I intended, and only adde this provisoe to my long bill, that this spirit be not cast out by another spirit as bad or dangerous as it is. This will either meet with acceptance or excuse from,
Yorke, Dec. 29, 1657.

Sir,
Your servant,
E. B.

I am appointed to preach on fryday next, to confute the last in some measure. Conceale my name from any but H. H.

Extract out of the register of the resolutions of the H. and M. lords states-general of the United Netherlands, taken the 9th of January 1658. [N. S.]

Vol. lvi. p. 352.

Was once more produced in the assembly the letter of the queen of Bohemia, received yesterday, being the copy of three letters of the princess of Hohenzollern, concerning the departure of the princess Louisa, daughter of the said queen. Whereupon it being debated, and the said copies being compared with the originals, and it appearing clearly thereby, that she did not only move her to go away, but by all means possible pro moted and facilitated her departure: wherefore their H. and M. L. do declare to be highly displeased with the said insufferable act; and have also thought fit to order the said princess, that henceforward she shall forbear and desist appointing any more magistrates in Bergen op zoom, until such time, that her information and examination be taken, seen, and examined against the above-mentioned; and the business beyond expectation being found otherwise, there shall then some other resolution be taken by their H. and M. L.

The Swedish resident to the states-general.

Read, the 9th of January 1658. [N.S.]

Vol. lvi. p. 354.

The resident of Sweden understanding, that the lords Danes do endeavour to justify their precipitate rupture with the king of Sweden, by speaking of the Swedish violences, insufferable proceedings, extortions, attempts, tolls, pernicious designs, &c. findeth himself obliged to say, that the hereditary quarrel between his majesty and the crown of Poland being for the most part one and the same nature as that, which this state had with Spain, was always approved of by their H. and M. L. And lastly, his said majesty did never occasion any hindrance to their H. and M. L. in regard of their action against Spain. So likewise it doth not concern the Dane in the least, what the king of Sweden hath to decide with the crown of Poland; especially, since that his majesty hath not only presented to the city of Dantzick all that could be imagined to tend to their peace, but also given to their H. and M. L. all desired satisfaction upon their grievances, although the king of Sweden being master of the countries situated on the river of Weyssel, had right and reason to take convoy and licence-money, as is practised here, of all goods exported or imported. On the other hand, their H. and M. L. have often complained, that the lords Danes, since the hereditary treaty, have for these hundred years last past burthened the commerce of all nations with a toll at a place where no bulk is broken, where is an open sea, and that also of goods, which do in no wise grow in Denmark; and how considerably the city of Dantzick and Poland itself have always felt the Danish exactions and violencies, is best known to themselves. The Danes, to move their H. and M. L. to assist them, do compare themselves to the cities of Dantzick and Munster, and why not to the city of Brunswick? it being well known what Denmark intended with that city anno 1615, and what their H. and M. L. did against it. Truly it is a very great forgetfulness or inconstancy of the lords Danes, when they alledge the business of Munster, and as if they did blame the besiegers of the said city, it being too well known what near correspondence there was between them and the said besiegers, and what important designs they intended to have perfected, as soon as the city had fallen into the hands of the besiegers; and they were very sorry for the generous resolution of their H. and M. L. taken for the good of that city, and accordingly executed. No more ground hath that, which they speak with the Swedish designs; it is known to their H. and M. L. and the whole world, that the design of Sweden was, and still is, to cause them to have the effect of the said hereditary treaty; their said lords embassadors being in Sweden in the year 1645, whereof the lords De Witt and Soncke are yet living, can testify as much. Now on the other hand is sufficiently known what the design of the lords Danes hath always been, and what it still is, namely, with an arbitrary power to suppress and ruin their H. and M. L. commerce. But being reduced to reason by the arms of his majesty and their H. and M. L. in the year 1645, Denmark was then somewhat qualifyed; but it is, without doubt, that so soon as they shall have recovered their former power, they will take in hand their former designs.

Sweden hath defended the Protestant cause with their lives and fortunes; and to that end, at the earnest instance of their H. and M. L. took up the arms, which the lords Danes so easily quitted 1629, not once giving their H. and M. L. advice thereof, but leaving the innocent duke of Mecklemburgh to the emperor and duke of Holstein for a prey; and then had only regard to themselves, playing with the imperialists facio & facia, not only abandoning the business of the prince elector, but of the whole Protestant being, but destroyed the same, especially after the defeat at Nordlingh, where they took the opportunity, and drove the crown of Sweden's forces out of the Stift of Bremen; and the toll in the Sound not being enough for them, they so ordered their business and designs, which they had in hand the year 1645, the measure grew full; and the arms, which then helped to bring them to reason, they would now gladly employ to bring them into the like posture as they were before that year; to that end likewise raising a war in the Romish empire, and introducing those powers, which their H. and M. L. have always feared, whereof the sparks were already seen the last summer upon the frontiers, not considering, that their neighbouring crowns will oppose the same for their interests. It seemeth to be enough to them, if they can but draw this flourishing state into some rupture, inducing it not to ratify the treaty of Elbing, and thereby indirectly hindering the acceptable mediation of their H. and M. L. whereas they ought to consider, what a bad example such a non-ratification will give to other nations, especially to those, who have offered their mediation likewise upon that presupposition, that what is promised ought to be performed; and no foundation can be laid for a future negotiation, in case the foregoing be not finished; yea the Danes do give to understand sufficiently, that they seek no other than a general rupture in the West, as they have already effected in the East, which is no sign of love to peace; which to facilitate sincerely, they ought to desire their H. and M. L. to come to a sincere ratification of what is agreed, as a true foundation of considence and saith, without which no negotiation can subsist; it being an unheard of business, which will hardly be credited by other nations, that any body should dare to engage a party to his advantage, whom he knoweth to have promised by express treaty to be against him, of assault, as is done by him.

Wherefore their H. and M. L. are once more most friendly desired not to give any ear to the lords Danes, when they perswade them against the solemn promised ratification and exchange of the said treaty, and thereby hinder the necessary preliminaries to the peace; but on the contrary, that their H. and M. L. will be pleased to use their power and authority according to the treaties, to divert the Danes from all their present and future ruptures, whereby then by their H. and M. L. esteemed mediation they may come to a peace.

Hague, 9 Jan. 1658.

H. Appleboom.

Lockhart, embassador in France, to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvi. p. 370.

May it please your lordship,
I have received none from your lordship since that of December 17th, which gave me hopes, that next post should bring me a proposition concerning his highness's past and future expense at Mardick. If it had come to my hand ere this, it must have lyen by me; for his eminence, since the death of his beloved nephew (who dyed satturday last) hath retyerd to Bois de Vincennes, where he hath so much given himself over to his excessive forrows, as he can neither be perswaded to heare businesse, or to admitt of a visitt from any save from their majesties.

I have learnd from one of the queen of Swedden's servants heare, who is a Protestant, that Phillipo Passerini (whom she sends to waite on his highness) is a priest, who ordinarily sayeth masse to her. He is her present confident, tho' he hath the esteem of a lewd man, and is said to have been the cheife occasione of that barbarous and unhappy action at Fountainbleaw. I know your lordship will think it fitt, that he met with a civill reception; but whatever his message be, the stay of such a messenger is not be encouraged.

My lord, the secrett article with France is almost expyered; and it is most necessary, that something be done to secure the performance of last treatty, at least as much as it can be by new engadgements. I have sometymes represented the necessity of it to his eminence, who appeared to be willing to doe any thing towards your satisfaction. Mr. Wildegoes remitted 18000 francks by the last, and by this will remitt the 2000 remaining in his hands. The first bills are addressed to mr. Ashurst, to the end he may get them accepted. The second bills shall make the mony payable to your lordship or order. My poor wyfe's conditione was never more dangerous; and I am not able to tell your lordship how great my afflictions are, and how too sad an excuse for the businesse of this troble given by,

Paris, Jan. 9th N.S. 1657/58.

My lord,
Your most faithfull and obedient servant, Will. Lockhart.

H. Cromwell, lord-deputy of Ireland, to general Fleetwood.

30th Decemb. 1657.

In the possession of William Cromwell esq.

The sad impression, which sir John Reynold's miscarriage made upon me, caused the last week's silence. I am sensible of your affectionate expressions to me, and am sorry, that the sense of our necessities extorted any other from me. I wish, that what you conceive of our arrear were true, but certainly it is not; for we are two months in arrear more than we were the last parliament, when the whole was computed; and so much as I beleive scarce twice 80000 l. will discharge, unless your assignations are very bountifull, as the state sent over to Phil. Jones will make out. I wish for your ease and my quiet 'twere less; for I take no pleasure in complaining, and am sorry, that these grievances, among their other ill effects, should raise any misunderstandings between us. The truth is, when I look round about upon our affairs, I am at my witts end, and too apt to resent things too deeply. The business of reducement is at a stand, and must be so, till we can have money. As for the civill charge, we have brought it down from 48000 to 35000 l. per ann. The Lord help us in all our streights, which is his time of appearing. Excuse me once more to my dear sister. I remain, &c.

Mr. E. Vaughan to secretary Thurloe.

Vol.lvi.p.384.

Right honnorable,
I Beinge of late interrupted in the execution of my dutie and trust reposed in me by your honnor, and thereby my livelihood with-held from me, which your honnor hath been pleased to conferr on me, I was necessitated to present his excellencie the now lord-deputy with a petition, a coppie whereof with a letter I made bould to send to your honnor. For answere there came since to my hands a letter subscribed by mr. Noell and mr. Clarke, your honnor's deputies generall, conteyning a charge of a very high nature against me, as a person disobedient, negligent and knavish (in the severest sense, and according to the measure of their charity) useless and unfitt for your honnor's service. Sir, when I consider your honnor's greate and weighty affaires, and my own innocency, I should thinke it enough to give theire scandalous information this generall answere, that it is untrue, scandalous and malicious in all the parts of it. But I perceive it is your honnor's pleasure, that I should be more particuler; and therefore shall endeavour to answere each matter as they lye in theire letter.

First, they tell your honnor of the commission I received for the postage of Ireland, and that capt. Talbutt was joyned with me for the execution of severall branches of my instructions; that I had not in any one thing acted according to my commission, nor cleered with the post-masters, for which your honnor had given a liberal allowance. To that I answer, that those instructions, wherein capt. Talbutt was joyned with me, were onely theise, the resettlinge of post-masters and their salleries, and providinge a convenient place for the office, and my habitation; and that beinge done, he was not further to intermeddle: that the same was accordingly done with capt. Talbutt's approbation, who delivered each post-master his commission, and the ould post-masters were cleered to a halfepenny by me the 24th of June 1656, without the least allowance from your honnor, and the acquittances were delivered to capt. Talbutt to be sent over to mr. Noell and mr. Clarke, who (as he saied) had orders for soe doinge.

Secondly, That I have placed severall of my owne relations at greater salleries then needed, and some so poore, that they got monie into their hands, and runn away; others of them in my debt, who pay me with your honnor's money, and place it upon the accompt of my debt. I humbly answer, that I have not one relation (that I know of) in your honnor's service here, nor was there any post-master or sallery settled upon the new contract. without the approbation and consent of capt. Talbutt, and that upon as easy rate as was possible; neyther do I know of any runn-away indebted, except one Evans, formerly imployed at Wexford, of whom I gave capt. Talbutt a tymely caution, and wish him to require security from him before he gave him your commission; and as for any of them beinge in my debt, I utterly deny, that ever any of them owed me a penny (except the said Evans) or that ever I demanded or received to my owne use any of your honnor's money, as it is most groundlesly and scandelously suggested.

Thirdly, That the post-masters are of my partie, and at my command; and that I conjured them not to give your deputies the knowledge of what I received upon the accompt of the office. By this your honnor may perceive, that there is a faction amongest us, and who are the founders of it; for I must say, that I owne no partie distinct from your honnor's interest, nor did I ever comand the post-masters other then what is enjoyned me by your instructions, both for the management of the office, and the makeinge up of their accompts quarterly; and likewise for payinge the surplusage in their hands to the cashire, or to such other post-masters, whose receipts fell short of theire salleries, accordinge to your honnor's instructions. Nor did I ever desire to receive any other monies then what was justly my owne, which all the post-masters, cashiere and clerkes of the office can (and I hope will) justifie.

Fourthly, That I refused to give your deputies an intelligible account of my receipts and proceedinges in your honnor's affaires, whereby they and all your servants were kept in the darke, and the whole busines disordered; and for a remedy, that they had appointed capt. Talbutt to put my commission in execution, &c. To this I answere, that I never refused to give those gentlemen an account of affaires here, but they had it weekly with the greatest care and exactness I could; yet I have bin so unhappie, as not to receive those returnes (which I thought my endeavours might justly expect from them) in what they sent me for the most part, beinge but slight unsealed noates enclosed to my new master capt. Talbutt, which sildome came to my hands without the perusall of the whole office, and some of them such as did not become those worthy servants, they supposeinge and makeing me the worst and vilest of your servants; which much troubled me, seareing the same carrecter might be given of me, if not worse, to your honnor; yet for all that I can say, I have not flagged in my duty, but constantly minded my busines, without any by ends whatsoever: and if there be anie disorder in the worke, I must say it hath not proceeded from any act or neglect of myne, but rather from the orders given to capt. Talbutt, and Billinge the cashier, contradictory to my commission and instructions from your honnor.

Fifthly, That I advised severall of the post-masters to petition for more salleries than was agreed upon by capt. Talbutt, meerely to disturb the business, &c. I answere, that I never gave advise in this case, nor doe I know of any petition presented; but heard, that the post-masters on the northern roade did intend to petition against me and capt. Talbutt for their salleries from the said 24th of June 1656, beinge the expiration of the ould contract to the tyme they received their new commissions, which was aboute six or seaven monthes: but had the said capt. Talbutt received my advice, in giveinge those stages the priority of settlement, those clamours had bin prevented, and above 100 l. in that tyme saved to your honnor.

Sixthly, lastly, that which seemeth to be the tendency of all the durt that hath bin thrown, they offer it as theire opinion, that mr. Vaghan is unfitt for so greate a trust as the superintendincy of your honnor's busines in Ireland, and that there never was, nor is any necessary use for him. To this it would not become me to say much, but rayther submit it to your honnor's pious and candid interpritation, whether his hignesse councill and your honnor's judgment be not in some measure questioned, &c. Not longe since they were all in the darke as to the worke, by my meanes; and yet just now so well skilled, that there is noe need of me. However there arguments doe thus jangle, were theise gentlemen (or rayther theire intelligencer) able to make good any peece of what is alleadged against me, I should judge they had past a very just and sound sentence; but I bless God I have a clear and a quiett conscience, and must crave leave to bid defiance to all aspersions in relation to your honnor's service: and it is my greate support, that I have to doe with a person discerning, and not altogether a stranger to the wild designes of theise my whisperinge adversaries, who beinge discomfited in all their open attempts, doe now by this close and secreete way first endeavour to put me out of all reputation with your deputies, and that by their suggestions and bare allegations, without the least proofe, to plunge me into disfavour with your honnor; and after all my sufferings, hazards, paines and expences aboute the settlement of this office, to putt me beyond all hope of a subsistance for my selfe and family. Honnored sir, I am free to undergoe the most strict test touchinge my behaviour in this my trust. May your honnor therefore be pleased to referr the examination of it to such persons here as your honnor shall thinke fitt; and I beseech your honnor, as you may expect a just accompt from me, that I may be rid of such cloggs as will make me uncapable of it. As for the fingeringe of your money, which is often repeated as the ground of a supposed discontent in me, I never did, nor never shall desire it beyond what is my due, and not before the tyme, and then I am confident it is your honnor's goodnesse and desires I should have it. Honnored sir, lett truth take place, and I make noe question but to appeare through all theise cloudes of accusation,
Sir, your honnor's faithfull and obedient servant,
E. Vaughan.

Dublin, 30th Dec. 1657.

H. Cromwell, lord-deputy of Ireland, to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvi. p.386.

Sir,
I Have receaved none from you these twoe last posts: whether my late letters or the other house hath caused this silence, I cannot well conjecture.

I was myselfe allso silent the laste week, partly through the indisposition occasioned by what wee heard of that worthy person sir John Reynolds, and partly as haveing little to saye of other things at least, untill wee heard better news concerning our supplies. Upon the same reasons I could have been silent this week also, did not my care to give you noe distaste prevaile with mee; for although (the truth is) I am not well pleased with this business, yet I am really sensible of your concernment for mee all along: and if the condition I am in were not in a great measure the fruits of your love and kindness, I should bee more large in acquainting you with the disappointments I find in it. But I will not add to your trouble, for I beleive you see enough at home to trouble you, without this. The council are verry sencible of our wants, and have written the inclosed to his highness, which I pray deliver at the best opportunitie. For my own part, I did not think fitt to joyn in it, as haveing written this business thread-beare allreadie without effect; for I thinke it imprudent allwayes to continue the sam means, which have so often failed. I desire the continuance of your good affections. I feare the time is comeing, when it will be necessary for honest men to help and strengthen each other. What I can doe, shall be allwayes ready to serve you, for I am
Your verry affectionate freind, and most faithfull servant,
H. Cromwell.

Dublin, Decemb. 30, 1657.

The earl of Mulgrave to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvi. p. 375.

Mr. secretary,
I Would have wayted upon you myselfe this day and yesterday, but that I am loth to give you any trouble, since I heare of your indisposition of health (for which I am very sorry): I pray God send you soone recovered out of it. But as it is, give me leave to take notice, that diverse gentlemen were seized on satterday last at the Tennis-court at Jamese's, against whom upon their examinations there appeares nothing worthy of theyr deteynor; yet they are continued prisoners under lieutenant-collonel Legoe. Amongst them is mr. John Thimmelby (who it is trew is a recusant, but seure he alone would not be imprisoned on that accounte) there being nothing against him, and he being my kinsman; and trewly much to his prejudice at this tyme not to be at lyberty, to follow his lawfull occasions. I shal earnestly desyre you to send a direction by my servant, the bearer hereof, to lieutenant-collonel Legoe forthwith, to give him his liberty, and, if it please you, to the rest there, against whom nothing further appeares then their being at the Tennis-court, which seemes hard to suffer imprisonment for. Sir, I crave your pardon for this trouble, and remayne
Your most affectionate freind, and humble servant, Mulgrave.

At Kirkehouse, 30 Dec. 1657.

Mr. Bradshaw, resident at Hamburgh, to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvi. p. 377.

Right honorable,
Since my last of the 18th, I have not received any from your honor; nor have I other to divert you with, save only, that noe answer comeing from the great duke or his chancellor, I removed heither this last weeke, where I expect your honor's further order how to dispose of myselfe, doubtinge, that his majestie of Sweden will hardly give way to my retourne, if it be not soe ordered by his highnesse, whose honor must needs suffer much in my soe unreasonable waitinge for what I beleeve will never come, for the reasons formerly given your honor. This is a place of great charge. I shall therefore longingly expect my discharge, that the state be not put to a needlesse expence. The governor of the great duke's frontier-garrison hath not yet answered my letter; which sufficiently declares what is to be expected from his master. Heere is a report, that the Swedes have attempted Trauemond and the Pillaw; which exasperates the spirits of this people. From Riga we have nothing more, but that the seege continues. I cease your further truble, prosessinge myselfe

Your honour's verie humble servant,
Richard Bradshaw.

Memmel, 30th. Dec. 1657. [S.V.]

Bordeaux, the French embassador in England, to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvi. p. 229.

Monsieur,
Les lettres, que l'ordinaire d'aujourd'huy m'a portées, me donnent advis, que les ennemis estoient assemblés, & se preparoient à marcher; qu'il estoit incertain s'ils iroient à Bourburg ou à Mardyke; & que les troupes de France avoient reçeu ordre de se tenir prestes à marcher pour le secours de l'une ou de l'autre place. Il m'est aussy fait nouvelle instance par le mareschal d'Aumont, pour des pallisades, & de la póudre. L'esperance que j'avois de reçvoir aujourd'huy quelque response au memoire, que je vous a presenté samedy, m'a fait remettre jusqu'à present d'escrire avec certitude ce qui seroit envoyé d'icy: je ne puis plus differer cet éclaircissement, sur lequel ledit sieur mareschal prendra ses mesures; c'est ce qui m'oblige à vous prier, que je puisse scavoir devant le depart de en la post, à quoy l'on se peut attendre; & si son altesse ne juge pas à propos d'envoyer diligence des pallisades, & de la poudre extraordinaire necessaire pour mettre la place en estat d'une parsaite défence. Il m'est aussy mandé, que la pluspart des officers Anglois, qui sont à Mardyk, ont repassé la mer; & que mr. Morgan ne peut seul suffire à tout: Que l'ingenieur veut retourner en Angleterre; mais qu'à moins d'y en envoyer un autre, il y auroit du prejudice à le retour; & qu'il faut luy envoyer ordre expres pour demeurer. Je vous prie encore, monsieur, que je puisse escrire precisement sur tous ces chess, & aussy sur la proposition que vous m'avez fait pour l'entretien de la garnison de Mardyk, que j'apprends estre suffisante pour la défence, s'il y est laissé 2000 hommes de pied, & 500 chevaux. Il ne me reste, qu'à vous supplier de me croire,
Monsieur,
Vostre très-humble serviteur,
De Bordeaux.

Le 31me Dec. 1657.

The Dutch embassadors to the king of Sweden, to the states-gemral.

Vol. lvi. p. 373.

H. and M. lords,
My lords, yesterday arrived here a Polish gentleman, who had private audience to day by the king. What this gentleman is come about, is variously reported. Some think, that he is sent by the Polish gentry, who begin to be very jealous of the progress of the Austrians in Poland: others believe, that he hath commission and order from the king of Poland, to treat and negotiate a peace between the two crowns. We will not fail by the very first to advise your H. and M. L. what he is come about.

It is said, that the king will go from hence at the beginning of the next week; but whither is not certainly known.

Wismar, the 10th of January 1658. [N. S.]

Dorp.

Huybert.

Isbrandts.

The grand duke of Tuscany to admiral Stoakes.

Vol. lvi. p. 382.

Illustrissimo,
Ho visto quel che V. S. illustrissima mi replica con la sua de 19 del presente conforme allo stilo Inglese, che secondo il nostro, sarebbe de 9 del corrente, & in primo luogo devo dirli non essersi mai dà me rivocato indubbio che ella porti le sue instanze con ordine del serenissimo protettore, & con tal titolo sono state da me sentite, & stimate, come la mia offervanza richiede. Ben si può dubitare se S. A. sia stata sinceramente informata di quel che seguitò, & dello stato presente del negozio, poiche la molta prudenza dell' A. S. ben si può credere che sarebbe rimasta capace de miei, non meno giusti che respettosi procedimenti. Mi dice V. S. illustrissima che non si vorrebbero gli interessati sottoporre alla lunghezza delle inspezzioni legali, & juridiche, mà che de facto si astrignesero i padroni de vasselli alla restituzione, perche havendo fatto le prede senza havere riguardo à le legge essere forzati à restituire il mal tolto. Intorno à che mi occorre di rispondere à V. S. illustrissima che ogni principe (come ben sà il serenissimo protettore) amministra la giustizia per mezzo de suoi ministri a ciò deputati, i quali conviene che sentano tutti, & procedano con i dovuti termini di ragione, & se dovessero giudicarsi senza la norma delle leggi quelli che delinquono fuori dell' uso di esse, ne seguirebbe, che in tal forma dovesse praticarsi con tutti i delinquenti, il che V. S. illustrissima ben può conosceri che sarebbe un confondere il buon governo.

Ia può esser noto à V. S. illustrissima che con consenso del signior Carlo Longland si delegarono trè-giudici non sospetti, & non essendo mai comparso alcuni per parte di esso, & restando però la causa deserta, ordinai, che si rimettesse in buon giorno; mà ne anche doppo questa abilità si è rapresentato chi produca le sue ragioni, & dà ciò è derivato che la causa non è stata spedita. Chiede ora V. S. illustrissima da me una giustizia sommaria, & che di potenza io provegga all indennità del Longland, & del capitano Ricciardo Peques, mà questo non è modo da potersi pratecare, mentre la parte auversa vuole esser sentita, il che non si può negare senza offesa del giusto, & del conveniente, & non toca al principe il fare da giudice, mà conviene che questa parte sia fatta dai giusticonti. Ben è vero che per servire al signior protettore havrò l'occhio che la causa si termini con ogni maggior brevità & fin che torni il capitano Regolino che gia è in corso, potrà agitarsi l'interesse co-l capitano Cardi, & vedere che sollecitamente si spedisca, come si farà, se saranno esibite dall' una parte, & l'altra le pretese raggioni; mà non si può decidere una differenza con la sola asserzione, & deposizione d' una parte interessata; & al rittorno poi del sudetto Regolino, à cui ho fatto scrivere, come farò anche di nuovo per obligarlo al rittorno, rendasi pur certa V. S. illustrissima che egli sarà astretto à render conto delle sue azzioni, & con ogni possibile sollecitudine. Et se sara vero come suppone il medesimo Longland, che in mano al capitano Cardi, ô ad altri, siano delle robe predate, si faranno arrestare, nò si lascerà di fare tutto quel che la raggione permetta. Consideri V. S. illustrissima, & rappresenti al serenissimo protettore che io feci ritenere prigioni in porto Ferraio il capitan Gio Maria, & non volsi che si liberasse senza la sicurità del capitano Cardi suo zio; poiche da questo si può conoscere qualsia la mia intentione di servire à S. A. & di provedere al bene & all' interesse della nazione Inglese, con che à V. S. illustrissima conferme la mia particulare stima verso il suo valore; & le auguro tutte le piu desiderate prosperità.

Al piacere di V. S. illustrissima,
* * * * * * *

Di Pisa,10 Genn. 1658. [N.S.]

Signor ammiraglio Stoakes.

Al piacere di V. S. illustrissima,

Terlon, the French embassador to the king of Sweden, to Bordeaux, the French embassador in England.

Wismar, 10th (fn. n1) Jan. 1658. [N.S.]

Vol.lvii. p. 122.

My lord,
The king of Sweden did tell me confidently, that he had a design to besiege Reinsbourg so soon as the cold is somewhat abated. His said majesty is very well disposed to a peace, and wished his adverse party would hearken to an accommodation; and as far as I can understand by him, he will do all as far as his honour will permit him, for the effecting of the same. He hath often told me, that if the business could be brought to an assembly, they would not part without being adjusted. The persons, that are to meet there on this behalf, are already named, and count Magnus de la Gardie cometh from Livonia, to be the chief; but as the peace of Poland doth advance, that of Denmark doth seem to me to draw off, the Danes being unwilling to treat, since that they hope the elector of Brandenburg will declare against Sweden, and that the house of Austria will likewise assist Denmark.