Historical Collections: Parliamentary proceedings, July 1647

Chap. XVI. Proceedings in Parliament from July 5, unto August 1, 1647.

Monday, July 5.

A Penalty on Members.

The House of Commons this Day further considered of the Vote of the House, June 10. last, against Members sitting in the House, that are not duly Elected, or that have assisted the King in the late War against the Parliament: And it was further debated, whether a Penalty should not be added to that Vote; and upon the Result it, was voted, that a Penalty should be added.

Not to sit in the House.

Ordered further, that such Persons as have sued for, or accepted Pardons from His Majesty, such as have directed, advised, assisted, signed, or consented unto the Cessation Ireland, or assisted the Rebellion of Ireland, shall be comprehended within the said Vote of 10 Junii, and shall not presume to fit in the House: and likewise such as stand Sequestred by Authority of Parliament, for Delinquency, shall not presume to fit in the House.

Ordered further, that the House take into Consideration to Morrow what this Penalty shall be, to such, that contrary to the Vote, shall presume to stay in the House.

Trinity-House. Seamen's Distempers.

The Petition of the Trinity-House at Deptford was read, and many of the Petitioners called into the House, and acquainted them with the many great Distempers that are happened among the inferior sort of Seamen, which was because they had not Power to prevent Mischiefs. And, Secondly, Because they wanted a Judge-Advocate That the Ordinance then tendered to be read, for giving that House further Power, shall be read on Thursday next.

Persons excepted from Mercy.

This Day the House of Peers had debate of the Propositions for Peace to be sent to the King, and insisted upon the Persons exempted out of Mercy. And their Lordships thought fit to have Prince Rupert, Prince Maurice, the Marquis of Newcastle, Lord Jarmin, Sir John Stranguidge, and others, to the number of twenty five in all, to be left out of that Qualification, and put into the next. The further Consideration was referred till another time.

Treaty with the Army.

By Letters from the Commissioners with the Army it was this Day certified, that the Treaty goes fairly on, and thereupon we have great hope of a fair Composure. The manner of their Proceedings in the Treaty, with the Copies of the several Papers, from the first Meeting, is as followeth.

A Method for the Treaty with the Army.

At the Treaty begun, Wickham, July 2, 1647. Present of the Commissioners of the Parliament, Earl of Nottingham, Lord Wharton, Field-Marshal Skippon, Sir Henry Vane, Junior, Sir Thomas Widrington Colonel White, Thomas Scawen, Esq; and Thomas Povey, Esq;

Present of the Commissioners for the Army, Commissary-General Ireton, Sir Hardress Waller, Colonel Rich, Colonel Lambert, Major Desborow.

For the Method of Proceedings it is offered by the Commissioners of Parliament, that seeing the Treaty is to be had upon the Papers and Desires sent from the Army to the Houses, and the Votes of the Houses sent to their Commissioners residing with the Army,

1. That in all Matters to be treated on, there shall be a free Debate had by Conference.

2. That the Results of such Debates, in Points that relate to the Desires of the Army, shall be by Commissioners of Parliament delivered to the Commissioners of the Army, in Writing, to be presented to the Council of War, for their Consideration, that a speedy Conclusion may be thereupon had.

3. That in this Treaty nothing shall be taken for the Desire, Opinion, or Resolution of the Commissioners on either part, but what is given in Writing, Signed by their respective Secretaries.

4. That in the managing of the Treaty, and for the more speedy expedition, that at any time Papers, Signed as aforesaid, may be sent and received betwixt the Commissioners upon imergent occasions.

5. That we shall be desirous to hear from the Commissioners of the Army, the way and method wherein they intend to proceed in the managing of the Desires of the Army, wherein we shall not doubt, but that they will take such Courses as may tend to the greatest Expedition.

6. That Meetings of the Commissioners shall be from time to time by mutual Agreement of the Commissioners, or upon the desire of either Party respectively, at such place within the Head-Quarters, as the Commissioners for Parliament shall appoint.

Signed by the Appointment of the Commissioners of Parliament.

Geo. Pyke, Secretary.

Wickham, from the Catharine-Wheel, 2 July, 1647.

To the Officers of the Right Honourable the Commissioners of Parliament. For the Method of Proceeding, the Commissioners of the Army do answer.

The Army's method to treat.

1. To the first, we agree fully. 2. To the second, we agree. 3. To the third, we wholly agree. 4. To the fourth, we agree. 5. To the fifth, we shall willingly perform what is desired, at least in parts from time to time, as there is occasion; but we desire that there may be no stop to the proceeding in the Treaty, upon any part of things to be treated on in expectation of a general Method for the whole. 6. To the sixth, we wholly agree.

Signed by the Appointment of the Commissioners of the Army.

Wil. Clarke.

Wickham, Catharine-Wheel, July 2, 1647.

This Paper following was delivered in by the Commissioners of the Army, in Answer to some verbal Objections made by the Commissioners of the Parliament, at a private Debate or Conference.

A Paper delivered in by the Commissioners of the Army.

Having heard the Objections of your Lordships, and the rest of the Commissioners, to the Things we proposed, as wanting in the late Votes of the Houses, in relation to the desire of the Army sent from Uxbridge June 27, 1647. We are satisfied to lay aside some of these Particulars, and to insist only on these following, which we humbly desire the Parliament would be pleased to consider.

Things wanting in the late Votes of the Houses, in relation to the Desires of the Army, sent from Uxbridge, June 27, 1647.

To the first desire, That either the Declaration mentioned in that Article, may be recalled, or else that it may be further declared, that those that shall, contrary to the Order of June 28, leave the Army, shall not have any benefit of that former Declaration for present payment of Arrears.

To the second, That the provision may be quickned with Effect.

To the third, Whereas on Tuesday, June 28, it was voted, that those that had left the Army, should forthwith be either sent over into Ireland, or disbanded; and it was referred to the Committee for Ireland to consider how that Vote may be put in Execution and report their Opinion on Thursday. Morning then next following, now since we hear not of any Report made thereupon, or any further care taken therein (after 5 or 6 Days relapsed) we humbly desire, that in cafe they be not without further delay sent and shipt for Ireland they may forthwith be discharged, and disperst.

To the fourth, we desire that the Ordinance for the purpose in that Article pressed, may be speedily past, and put in Execution.

To the sixth, we desire, that the Establishment intended for present Maintenance of the Army (as also Provision for Arrears) may be hastned with Effect.

Little being yet done in relation thereunto, we have several things of weight to offer, which we conceive will very much conduce to the present preserving of the Peace and Safety of this Kingdom; for the preventing of a new War, and to the sending of some Present relief for Ireland, which we shall next offer.

By the Appointment of the Commissioners of Parliament.

Thomas Margets.

Reading, July 5, 1647.

A Proclamation against Plunder.

The Head Quarters continue at Reading: Some complaints have been made to the General of abuses committed by divers Soldiers, and for preventing thereof for the future, his Excellency hath set forth a Proclamation, charging and requiring all Soldiers whatsoever to forbear taking of Horses from any Person whatsoever, without sufficient Warrant, or to compel any Person where they quarter, to give them any Money, and in further pursuance thereof, his Excellency hath also granted Commission to the Colonel, Lieutenant Colonel, or Major of every Regiment, for punishing of Offences by a Council of War in each Regiment.

Prince Elector.

The Prince Elector came this day to the Court, at the Lord Craven's House by Causum, to visit his Majesty.

Tuesday, July6. The House ordered to sit every day at 8, and the Committee of Goldsmiths-Hall to report till 9, and the House to rise at 12, the Committees may meet for dispatch of Business in the Afternoon.

Money for the Army.

The House considered of the Business of the Army, and made several Votes as followeth. 1. The Treasurers of Goldsmiths-Hall should pay the Treasurers of the Army, the remainder of 200000 l. formerly appointed for the Army, as it doth arise.

That the Committee and Treasurers of the Army, have Power to bring in the Assessments of the 60000 l. per Mensem, as they had for bringing in the Assessments for the Army.

That 20000 l. be paid by the Treasurers of Weavers-Hall, to the Treasurers at War, towards the Month's Pay for the Army.

That the like Power be given to the Committee and Treasurers at War, for allowing Free-Quarter, in like manner as they did allow it formerly in the Assessments for the Army in Association.

That 6000 Copies of the Ordinance of 60000 l. per Mensem be sent into the several Parts of the Kingdom.

That all such Garrisons as were formerly voted to be dismantled, be forthwith dismantled accordingly, and that the Committee of Derby House do see this done.

Ireland.

It was referred to the Committee of Ireland, to distribute the 25000 l. part of the Money assigned for Ireland, to the several Provinces of Ireland.

Charge against the 11 Members brought in by the Army.

This day also the particular Charge against the Eleven Members, was brought to the House of Commons, by Colonel Scroop, Colonel okey, Colonel Hewson, Colonel Pride, Lieutenant Colonel Bowen, Lieutenant Colonel Goffe, Major Rainsborough, Captain Berry Captain Clerke, Captain Carter, Captain Ralph, Captain Saxby, and Mr. Gethings, who attended at the Commons Door, and the House haying notice thereof, they were called in; Colonel Scroop spake to this effect: 'That by the Appointment of the General and Army under his Command, and in their Names, they were to present a particular Charge or Impeachment against the Eleven Members. Which being done, and they desired to withdraw, the Members impeached were sent for in, and the Charge read in the House, but the Day being far spent, the Debate thereupon was put off till Thursday next; at which time the Officers of the Army were to attend, and receive an Answer from the House.

A Paper delivered by the Commissioners of Parliament, Wednesday, July 7, 1647.

That finding the Expectation of the Parliament and the Kingdom to be very great upon the speedy Progress and happy Issue of this Treaty; in consideration whereof, we have made it our care constantly to attend at the appointed times of meeting, and to press and dispatch all therein: And we cannot but take notice, that the Proceedings on your part, have been and are very flow, and that little or nothing have been done in the Treaty since our Entrance thereupon , and therefore in discharge of our Duty, and the Trust reposed in us, we do very earnestly desire, that the Treaty may be effectually proceeded on with all expedition, and the times for meeting punctually kept, there being nothing that shall be wanting in us, according to the Power given us, to further a Work of so great Importance, and which may perfect a right Understanding betwixt the Parliament and the Army.

Signed by the Appointment of the Commissioners residing with the Army.

George Pyke, Secretary.

Reading, July 7, 1647

An Answer of the Commissioners of the Army, to the Paper of the Commons of Parliament, about a speedy Proceeding.

By the last Paper delivered in unto us from your Lordships, at Reading, the 7th of July, we perceive you find that the expectation of the Parliament and Kingdom is great upon the speedy Progress, and happy Issue of this Treaty. We answer that we do really apprehend the fame things with you , neither can we but witness, that you have constantly attended the appointed times of Meeting, and press'd Dispatch therein; nevertheless, we cannot but be very sensible, that you seem to reflect on us further than there is just Cause, in your taking notice that the Proceedings herein should be flow and dilatory on our part, as if we should not seem to desire and labour the quick and speedy settlement of the Affairs of the Kingdom, in a safe and well-grounded Peace, as cordially as any Persons whatsoever. We shall therefore desire you to remember with what forwardness we have in the first place presented to you those things which we did in our Hearts conceive necessary in order to a Treaty, and without which granted, we could not with Safety to the Kingdom, and Satisfaction to our selves, proceed in Treaty; and further press'd you to present them to the Parliament with speed, that a quick dispatch might be had therein, as being, in our Thoughts, the chiefest and surest way to prevent the engaging this Kingdom in a second War, when, contrary to our Expectations, we have found little effectually done in relation to our desires in those things most concerning the Safety and Peace of the Kingdom.

To the end therefore we may acquit our selves of being guilty of the delay you mention, and that it may appear to all Men where the Stick is, of not proceeding in the Treaty, to a Settlement of the Peace of the Kingdom, so much thirsted after by us all, we thought fit to remind you of these following Proposals, which we have formerly insisted upon, and to which Satisfaction is not given.

1. That there is nothing done with effect, notwithstanding the Votes of the House, to the dispersing of the Reformado Officers, who still continue in and about London, ready to head Forces, to the apparent hazard of a new War.

2. That notwithstanding the Votes of the House for the speedy sending into Ireland, or disbanding those Forces which left the Army, and their special Order to the Committee at Derby-House to take speedy care therein, yet they are still continued in Bodies in and about London; and, as we hear, are daily lifting more Force, pretending the Service of Ireland.

3. That notwithstanding the Votes of the House, of the 10th of June, and those since of the 5th of July, for the present purging of the House, yet divers persons comprised in those Votes still continue to sit there.

So long as we remain unsatisfied in the two first of these Particulars, we cannot be secured from those Doubts we have expressed of the danger of a new War; especially if it be considered, that the end of inviting so many Reformado Officers to London, was to lay a Foundation of a new War and was principally carried on by the design of some of those Members of the House of Commons we have impeached. And likewise that divers of the Officers and Soldiers which left this Army, were procured by Promises of Pay, and other Engagements, which were likewise designed by the same Persons aforementioned, if possibly they might thereby have broken this Army.

And for the last, What comfortable effect may we expect of a Treaty, so long as the Parliament (the supream Judicatory of the Kingdom) is constituted of some that are Men of Interests, contrary to the common-good thereof, from whom we can expect nothing but banding, and designing to obstruct and frustrate all Proceedings (contrary to their Interests) though never so essential to the happy Settlement of the Kingdom; and if a seasonable Remedy be not given herein, we despair of any good to the Kingdom by way of Treaty.

Signed by the appointment of the Commissioners of the Army.

William Clerke, Secretary.

Reading, July 7, 1647.

Wednesday, July 7.

Wednesday being the last Day of the Term, whereby the Speakers of both Houses could not be absent from the Chancery, and the Members having other extraordinary occasions in relation to the Term, therefore the House adjourned till Thursday.

This Day Monsieur Beleure, the French Ambassador, came to Causum, and was entertained with very great respect: at Court and had Audience of His Majesty in the Presence Chamber.

Judges for the Circuits.

Thursday, July 8. Reports were this Day made to the House, of the List of the Judges for this next Circuit, and passed as followeth, Baron Trevor and Justice Phesant, for Norfolk Circuit; Justice Bacon, Serjeant Creswell, for Essex Circuit; Justice Rolle, for Lincoln Circuit; Baron Atkin, Serjeant Clarke, for Oxford Circuit; Justice Godbolt, Serjeant Wild, Serjeant Jermin, Serjeant Green, for other Circuits.

Ordered further, that the Committee appointed for preparing Instructions for Judges do meet this Afternoon, and bring them in on Monday Morning next.

Militia of London to raise Horse.

The Sheriffs of London, and certain of the Militia, came down to the House this Day, and acquainted the House, that they were commanded to present a Petition, which was read, and it was to desire 20000 l. out of Weavers-Hall, for defraying the Charge of the Militia, and that the Ordinance past the 11th of June last, for raising Horse for defence of the City, may be renewed, the time being expired.

The House ordered, that the Power of the Militia of London, which they shall have by this Ordinance, shall not exceed the raising of one Regiment of Horse to the number of Six hundred.

Guard.

That the Militia of London be desired to give order, that the Guards appointed to attend the Houses, may be at the Houses by Seven of the Clock at farthest, daily.

Friday, July 9. This Day Letters were read in both Houses from His Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, concerning the King and the Peace of the Kingdom; the Business being of that Concernment, we will give you the Letters verbatim, as followeth.

The General's Letter to the Parliament, concerning the King.

Mr. Speaker,
I was sent unto by the King on Friday last, to desire the Parliament to give way to him to see his Children, and that they might for that purpose be sent to him. If I may be bold humbly to offer my Opinion, I think the Allowance of such a Thing may be without the least prejudice to the Kingdom, and yet gain more upon His Majesty than denying it; and if it be in the Prayers of every good Man, that his Heart may be gained, the performance of such Civilities to him is very suitable to those Desires, and will bear well with all Men, who (if they can imagine it to be their own Case) cannot but be sorry if His Majesty s natural Affection to his Children, in so small a thing, should not be complied with; and if any Question should be concerning the Assurance of their return, I shall engage for their return, within what time the Parliament shall limit.

Upon that occasion, give me leave, I beseech you, to take notice of some Reports spread abroad, as if my self, and the Officers of the Army, were upon some underhand Contract or Bargain with the King; and from thence occasion is taken to stander our Integrity, and endeavour a misunderstanding betwixt the Parliament and their Army; the Fidelity of which to the Parliament and Kingdom, and their Affection to it, are the great Objects of many Mens Envy; because they see nothing so likely to settle Right and Freedom with Truth and Peace to us and Posterity, and to binder their designs against the same, as an Harmony and good Accord between the Parliament and Army, which is the Joy of good Men, and it shall be our Study to preserve against all Designs, and Designers to the contrary.

To prevent therefore all Misunderstandings of that kind I thought with all clearness to declare unto you, That we have done nothing, nor shall do any thing which we desire to hide from you or the World, or shall not avow to the Faces of our greatest Adversaries.

Our Desires concerning a just Consideration and Settlement of the King's Right (His Majesty first giving his Concurrence to settle and secure the Rights and Liberties of the Kingdoms) we have already publickly declared in our Representation and Remonstrance. Since the first of those Papers sent unto the Parliament, there have been several Officers of the Army, upon several Occasions, sent to His Majesty, the first to present him a Copy of the Representation; and after that some others, to tender him a Copy of a Remonstrance upon both which, the Officers sent were appointed to clear the Sense and Intention of any Thing in either Paper, whereupon His Majesty might make any question. Since then there have also been some Officers at several times sent to His Majesty, about his remove from Hatfield, to disswade, if possibly , from Windsor, or any place so near London, to some place of further distance, answerable to what we had desired of the Parliament. In all which Addresses to His Majesty, we care not who knows what hath been said or done , for as we have nothing to bargain for or ask, either from His Majesty or the Parliament, for advantage of our selves, or any particular Party or Interest of our own, so in all these Addresses to His Majesty, we have utterly disclaimed and disavowed any such thing; but the only intent and effect of those our Addresses hath been, to desire His Majesty's free Concurrence with the Parliament, for establishing and securing the common Rights and Liberties, and settling the Peace of the Kingdom, and to assure him, (that the Publick being so provided for, with such His Majesty's Concurrence) it is fully agreeable to our Principles; and we should be desirous and endeavour, that (with and is such settling of the Publick) the Rights of His Majesty's Royal Family should be also provided for, so as a lasting Peace and Agreement might be settled in this Nation and that as we had publickly declared for the same in general Terms, so if things come to a way of Settlement, we should not be wanting in (in our Spheres) to own that general desire, in any Particulars of natural or civil Right to his Majesty's Person or Family which might not prejudice, or again endanger the Publick; and in the mean time, that his Majesty should find all personal Civilities and Respects from us, with all reasonable freedom that might stand with Safety, and with the Trust or Charge lying upon us concerning his Person.

You have here the utmost Sum of what hath passed from us to His Majesty, and we could with all Men did rightly understand (without misrepresentation) every Particular wherein (as we know nothing not agreeable to Reason, Justice, Honesty; or Conscience, so) we thought our selves concerned the rather to say and do as we have towards His Majesty, since he came within our Quarters, because of those common Prejudices suggested against us, as if we were utter Enemies to Monarchy, and all Civil Order or government. And for that Particular of the Duke of Richmond, and the two Chaplains lately permitted to attend His Majesty, it was not done without much reluctancy, because therein we doubted we might be misunderstood by the Kingdom's best Friends.

But upon His Majesty's continuing Importunity for it (as a Thing very nearly concerning his inward and outward Contentment, and conceiving those Persons such (as we hoped) would not do ill Offices to prejudice the Peace of the Kingdom, we did give way to it, and the Persons, before they came, had notice of Permission And as we then thought, so we still do think, that to allow him some such Company of persons least dangerous, whom former Acquaintance may make him take pleasure in; and the allowance of some such Chaplains of his own, are things both reasonable and just; and the debarring of that Liberty in the latter, we doubt, will but make him more prejudiced against other Ministers.

In general, we humbly conceive, that to avoid all harshness, and afford all kind usage to His Majesty's Person, in things consisting with the Peace and Safety of the Kingdom, is the most Christian, honourable and prudent way; And in all things (as the Representation and Remonstrance of the Army doth express) we think that tender, equitable, and moderate 'Dealing, both towards His Majesty, his Royal Family, and his late Party (so far as may stand with Safety to the Kingdom, and Security to our common Rights and Liberties, is the most hopeful course to take away the Seeds of War, or future Feuds amongst us for Posterity, and to procure a lasting Peace and Agreement in this now distracted Nation; to the effecting and settling whereof (with a secure Provision first to be made for the common Rights and Liberties of the Kingdom, and a due care to preserve and propagate the Gospel of Truth and Peace amongst us) we shall hope, that neither the Parliament, nor His Majesty, will be warning. And if god shall see it good to make us any way Instrumental thereunto, or that we may otherwise see the same accomplish'd, we shall then think ourselves indeed discharged from the publick Engagements we have been called, out unto, more clearly and effectually than (before such things were settled) we could have thought our selves to be, and to demonstrate our clearness from seeking Self-advantages in what we did, we shall henceforth account it our greatest Happiness and Honour (if God see it good) to be disingaged and dismiss'd, not only from our Military Charges, but from all other Matters of Power or Publick. Employment whatsoever.

I have in these things spoke not in my own Name alone, but in the Name (because I find it to be the clear Sense of the generality, or at the least of the most considerable part) of the Army; and I am confident, you and the Kingdom will never find it otherwise, I shall leave it to your favourable Construction, and commit all to the Goodness of God for an happy Issue. I remain your humble Servant,

Reading, July 8, 1647.

Tho. Fairfax.

Ordered, That the Charge of the Army shall be debated to Morrow Morning the first business, and nothing to intervene.

Reduced Officers and Soldiers to depart the City.

Saturday, July 10. An Ordinance passed both Houses for disbanding Soldiers, and others pretending to be reduced Officers and Soldiers, to depart the Lines of Communication by the 15th of July next, and that they shall not return to London within the space of two Months, and the execution of the said Ordinance Was referred to the Committee of Militia of London.

Tumultuous Meetings and Listings.

The House had debate concerning some late Tumultuous Meetings in London, and declared against all such unlawful Meetings, giving also Power to the Committee of the Militia of London, to suppress all such Meetings, upon pretence of Listing or otherwise, and commit such of them as they shall think fit.

A further Order was made, that no Officer of War or Soldiers should come within the Lines of Communication, other than those that are already in, upon pretence of sharing in the Money lately ordered for Officers and Soldiers.

Sheriffs of London and Army.

The Sheriffs of London with certain of the Common-Council attending the House this Day, acquainted them with a Letter they had received from his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, concerning the Proceedings of the Treaty with the Army (since Printed) which was read, and the House gave them Thanks for communicating the same to them.

The House this Day again read the particular Charge against the Eleven Members, and had a large Debate thereupon, Forenoon and Afternoon, but came to no conclusion, referring the further Debate till Monday next.

Colonel Massey 2000 l.

A Petition by Colonel Massey, and a Certificate from the Committee of Accompts, of the Arrears due unto Colonel Massey, were read and debated, and thereupon the House ordered him 2000 l. as part of his Arrears out of Weavers-Hall and Goldsmiths-Hall.

The King is still at the Lord Craven's House by Causum, and the Head-Quarters of his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax's Army still at Reading.

Monday, July 12. The House of Commons (as was ordered) further proceeded in the Debate of the particular Charge against the Eleven Members, and upon the Result of all, they voted it a Charge, and that the said Eleven Members should give in their Answer thereunto by Monday next, at which time the House will consider of putting the same into some speedy way of Trial, as is desired.

Council appointed for the 11 Members.; Iron Chain.

The House ordered that Master Chute, Mr. Pryn, Master Glover, Mr. Hales, shall be Council for the accused Eleven Members of the House, that were included in the late Votes of adhering to the King's Party, were ordered to present their Cases to the House on this Day; but by reason of other extraordinary Occasions, the House ordered the Cases of those Members should be read and debated on to Morrow Morning. It was referred to the Committee of the Army, to examine why there was not a Chain put upon the 200000 l. at Weavers-Hall, as there was upon the 200000 l. raised for the Scots.

The House of Peers sent a Message to the Commons, and therewith a Letter from His Majesty to the Duke of York, intimating His Majesty's Desires to see His Children, which their Lordships thought fit, did condescend unto, desiring the Commons Concurrence, His Majesty's Letter was read in the Commons House, and is as follows.

The King's Letter to the Duke of York.

Causum, 4 July, 1647.

James,
I Am in hope that you may be permitted, with your Brother and Sister, to come to some place betwixt this and London, where I may see you; to this End therefore I command you to ask leave of the two Houses, to make a Journey (if it may, be) for a Night or two; but rather than not to see you, I will be content to come to some convenient place to Dine, and go back at Night: And foreseeing the fear of your being within the Power of the Army, as I am, may be objected to hinder this my desire, 1 have full assurance from Sir Thomas Fairfax, and the Chief Officers, That there will be no Interruption or Impediment made by them for your return, how and when you please. So God bless you.

Your Loving Father,
CHARLESR.

Send me Word as soon as you can, of the time and place where I shall have the Contentment of seeing you, your Brother and Sister.

The King's Children to go to the King.

The Commons upon Debate of this Letter, and what was proposed by the General in a Letter the last Week concerning the same, voted and agreed upon by both Houses, that His Highness the Duke of York, and the rest of the King's Children, shall have leave to go. to His Majesty, and continue with him for two Days, and then return, and the Earl of Northumberland to go with them, and take care of them.

Clifford's Tower.

The Lord-Mayor of York shall have the Care, Charge, and Custody of Clifford's-Tower, in York.

Reduced Officers.

A Petition was this Day presented to the House, in the Name of many reduced Officers who had not received any part of their Arrears, but nothing done upon it.

Private Listings.

The Committee appointed formerly to confider of Private Listing of Forces in London, was ordered to meet this Afternoon, and to send for one Furr and Nusse, and examine them thoroughly.

Tumults.

The Committee for drawing an Ordinance to prohibit all riotous and tumultuous Meetings, were ordered presently to withdraw, and to bring in the Ordinance with all speed, that so Tumults may be prevented for the future.

Mutiny in Ireland.

To speak a little of the sad Subject of Ireland, by Letters from Dublin, it is certified, That the Soldiers there (for want of Money) have been very mutinous: And a Mutiny lately by some of Colonel Kinaston's Men proceeded so high as to endanger Dublin, but the Mutineers, through the Vigilancy of the Governor Colonel Jones, (who himself nearly escaped a Shot) were at last appeased, vowed Oblivion, and promised Amendment, upon which they were again received into Favour; and upon their submissive Petition their particular Grievances were referred to a Court-Marshal.

Demanding Advance and Arrears.

The Soldiers of Sir John Burlasse's new Model Regiment fell into a general Mutiny in the Field, and sent a Petition, demanding Advance Money and Arrears, &c. by a Drum, but Colonel Jones returned Answer, That he having sent their Petition to the Commissioners, did let them know, that for pity they were taken in the Service, that there was no need of them, and if they did not immediately depart peaceably to their Quarters, that Regiment should be disbanded, and they proceeded against according to their Demerits. This so startled them, that they presently march'd home in order.

Regiments reduced in Ireland.

The Eleven Regiments of Foot, of the old Army, are reduced into seven, viz. the Earl of Kildare, Lord Moors, Sir Henry Tichburne, Sir John Burlasse, Colonel Willoughby Colonel Bayley, and Colonel Flower, in all about four Thousand. The Horse are not yet reduced, but will be suddenly.

A Defeat given to the Garrison of Trim.; Success against the Garrison of Charlemont.

An unhappy Disaster hath lately befallen the Garrison of Trim; four Troops of the Rebels having the opportunity of a Fog, and the Advantage of a sleepy Centinel, early in the Morning swept away forty Horse of honest Captain Hunt's Troop, and above eighty Head of Cattel from under the Walls of Trim. The Governor, Colonel Fenwick, was absent on business, so that there's the end of a very faithful Troop, if not recruited with Horse from England, which will be difficult. But to recompence this Loss, Colonel Conway and Colonel Trevor, of Haringford, having joined their Forces on a design against the Garrison of Charlemont, had such good Success, that besides killing divers, they brought away eight hundred Cattel, and two hundred Horses, many being serviceable Horses, which hath almost undone that Garrison; so that if a reasonable number marched to that Place, they might have it for asking; and a Place which is the only Garrison or Place of Strength that can give a pretence of continuing any Forces in Ulster.

The Ambuscade routed, and good Plunder.

A Troop of Colonel Coote's Horse, with Ten of Captain Moor's Troop, having notice of an Ambuscado of Rebels near the Garrison of Plare, fell upon them, routed them, killed ten in the execution, and took sixteen Horse, and had like to have entered their Garrison with them, which was Welden Castle, from whence they brought sixty Cows, and Carrons besides.

A Defeat given to Owen Roe O Neale.

June the 22d, Colonel Chudley Coote marched out of Drogheda with five hundred Horse and Foot, to the City of Cavin, and by the break of Day, on Monday Morning, the one and twentieth, fell into Owen Roe O Neal's Quarters. Of the Ulster Men, took two of the Ryly's Prisoners, and one Mr. Dawley, being Gentlemen of very good Note, and leading Men amongst the Rebels, killed twenty five, for they flood not one quarter of an Hour, but run into the Bogs, took fourteen Troop Horses, five hundred Cows, one thou-sand Sheep, and two hundred and fifty Plough-Horses. This is the third piece of Service his Regiment hath done.

Intelligence from Scotland.

From Scotland Letters tell us, There have been great endeavours to raise Forces to come into this Kingdom, and at Edinburgh several Meetings have been of the Estates, where it was debated, and once all Night, what should be done by that Nation, as to the Affairs of England, but no material thing was determined, only that in case an Army should be raised, that David Leshly should be General; but as to the raising of an Army, the difficulties to be got over were too many, and so nothing done except private Listings.

Tuesday, July 13. 1647. This was the first Day of Relaxation (according to Ordinance of Parliament) for Scholars and Apprentices; and the Shops, for the most part, were shut up throughout the City.

Here follows the Petition of many hundred Young-Men and Apprentices of the City, to the House of Commons, viz.

The Humble Petition of many Thousands of Young-men and Apprentices of the City of London, to the High and Honourable the Knights, Citizens, and Burgesses in the Supream Court of Parliament assembled, presented the 13th of July, 1647.

To the High and Honourable the Knights, Citizens, and Burgesses in the Supream Court of Parliament assembled.

The Petition of divers Young-men and Apprentices of the City of London.

Humbly Sheweth,
That whereas upon the first of March last past, your Petitioners presented (to this Honourable House) an humble Petition subscribed with many thousand Hands, containing many things of publick Concernment, both in relation to the Kingdom in general, and your Petitioners in particular, as may appear by a Copy of the same hereunto annexed; at the reading of which, your Honours were pleased to promise the taking the same into serious Consideration, in convenient time. In hopes of which your Petitioners have, with all Humility and Modesty, according to our Duty, waited ever since for the accomplishment of the same, for bearing all clamorous and tumultuous Conventions, whereby your Honours might in the least have been disturbed in the quiet and peaceable prosecution of your weighty Affairs. And we cannot but with all Thankfulness acknowledge what you have already acted towards the Satisfaction of our just Desires in part; but Ending, to the great Grief of our Hearts, that in matter of greatest Concernment, instead of hoped Redress, our heavy Grievances are increased by the late Ejection of Men of known Fidelity out of their several Offices in the City Regiment of Trained-Bands and Auxiliaries, to the great Grief of most honest Men, who have been Eye-witnesses of their Faithfulness and Forwardness in the discharge of their several Trusts, and without any Crime laid against them, so much as to give a pretended Ground of this their unjust expulse. Likewise instead of composure of Differences, we find that encouragement is given to Men of turbulent and seditious Spirits, to stir up Divisions, by rendering those that concur not with them in every Punctilio (in point of Judgment) as Men unworthy to enjoy their Birthrights, Privileges, or Subsistance in the Kingdom, notwithstanding they have given never eminent Testimony of their sincere Affections to the Common-good, whereby those too officious Incendiaries seem more to drive at their particular Designs, than the conservation of Peace and Unity in the Commonwealth: And hereby, together with their late Industriousness, in striving to exasperate the City against the Army, have endeavoured, what in them was, to embroil the Kingdom in a second War, most dreadful to all well-minded People to think of: Neither is it the least of our Grief to remember the late abuse of the Authority of this House, by the too great influence of fame Arbitrary Spirits, in the late abusing and slighting Petitioners, contrary to their former Declaration, touching the Liberty of the Subject, the very Foundation of which was by this means most miserably shaken: Nor can we be unsensible of the Misery some Free-born Subjects yet undergo, by being detained in Prison from time to time, without being brought to a legal Tryal, notwithstanding their several Appeals to this Honourable Court. Upon these and other pressing Considerations, we assume the boldness once more to present these our ensuing Requests to this Honourable House.

First, That you will be pleased, with all convenient speed, according to your Promise, to take the several Heads of our former Petition into serious Consideration.

Secondly, That your Authority so apparently abused, contrary to Right and Equity, by those that have of late effected the Ejection of Men of known Fidelity and Account out of Places of so important Trust, may be forthwith redeemed out of their Hands; and that those that have been so unreasonably expulsed, may be again restored to their Places, till sufficient ground may be made apparent to the contrary.

Thirdly, We further pray, That you will be pleased to declare against all manner of Invectives of the Clergy, or others, tending to the aggravation of Differences amongst peaceable Spirits.

Fourthly, And that those Prisoners who have appealed to this Honourable Court for justice, may be forthwith put into a way of impartial Tryal.

And Lastly, That the Sum of all your Endeavours may tend to the sweet Composure of Differences on all sides, so far as it may be congruent to the Rules of Piety and Equity.

And your Petitioners shall every pray, &c.

This Petition was read in the Commons House, and thereupon.

It was ordered, That Sir John Danvers, Alderman Atkins, and Colonel Ven, do acquaint the Petitioners, That the House is at this time upon the Consideration of settling the Peace and great Affairs of the Kingdom, and that they will confider of it in convenient time.

Which the above-named Members did accordingly, and withal declared, That the House did with Thankfulness take notice of the civil and modest Behaviour of the Petitioners in the delivery of their said Petition.

Another Petition was likewise talked of to be presented from another party of Apprentices of the City, stiled, The Petition of divers Young-men and Apprentices of the City of London, which is as followeth, viz.

To the High and Honourable the Knights, Citizens and Burgesses, in the Supream Court of Parliament assembled.

The Petition of divers Young-men and Apprentices of the City of London.

Humbly Sheweth,
That out of the grounded Confidence we have of the readiness of this Honourable House to hear and repair the Grievances of all those for whose welfare you are chosen and betrusted to take care and provide; and being encouraged unto the same by several good Ordinances and Declarations of your own to that purpose.

We whose Names are hereunto annexed, although the meanest Members of this great Common-wealth, yet having by Birthright a Right of Subsistence here, conceived our selves (in our proportion) to have as real an Interest in the Kingdom's Enjoyments, as those who in respect of Place or other Accidents are above us. As also many of us, having under the direction of your Honours grave Counsel and Guidance, freely adventured our Lives for the preservation of our Native Rights, and the just Privileges of our dear Country, against the publick Violaters of the same. Upon these and other serious Grounds, we are bold at this time to make our humble Addresses to the Honourable and Supream Court of Judicature (the only Refuge, under God, we have to fly to.) And in the first place, we cannot but with all Thankfulness take notice of the unwearied Pains, together with many great and almost intolerable Difficulties by you undergone in the faithful discharge of your Trust, in bringing about the establishment of a well-grounded Peace; the perfection of which (in relation to the common Enemy) seems now, by the Blessing of God, to be brought near to a wished Period: Yet the consummation of this Work being (as it were) the Crown of all your Labours, we humbly conceive it may deservedly challenge from you a more than ordinary respect, which we doubt not but that your grave Wisdoms are very sensible of yet (Noble Senators) let it seem no presumption, if we your poor Petitioners, in all Humility, make known the grounds of some Fears and Jealousies to us apparent in that particular. And those are (among other great Grievances) chiefly derived from the present Sense we have of the too much prevailing of that Party, who have in the late Wars declared themselves disaffected to the Peace and Welfare of the Kingdom, who now seem to be in hopes of obtaining that by Policy which they have not been able to do by Force cunningly contriving to aggravate and increase Differences between the well-affected Party, and striving to bring an Odium upon all good Men, under the distinctions of several Terms of Obloquy and Disgrace, by such subtle Endeavours labouring to avert the edge of Justice from themselves (who come deservedly under the stroke of it) and to turn it upon those who are most innocent strongly endeavouring (and have already effected it in part) to justle all honest, faithful, well-affected Men out of Places of Trust, Office, and Authority, and to put in Neuters, Ambodexters, or Persons apparently disaffected: By all these means together, with the Advantage of the Kingdom's present Unsettledness, they seem to be in a more than propable expectation of getting the Reins once more into their own Hands, to the evident endangering of the Commonwealth's speedy Ruin, and to the great Grief of your poor Petitioners, and all others who desire the Peace and Safety of this distracted Kingdom. And further we are bold to make known, (as more particularly relating to the condition of your Petitioners) That whereas we at our being made Free of the City, are enjoined by Oath to maintain the Liberties and Privileges of the same City, which notwithstanding we are in a great measure disabled to do, by the Intrusion of divers illegal and undue Customs and Monopolies (partly about the Election and Removal of our Magistrates, crept in, to the Diminution of the ancient Liberties of this famous City, whose just Immunities, we are confident, your Honours have been, and are very tender of.

Wherefore your Petitioners humbly pray, that this Honourable House caking into consideration the Premisses, would be pleased, by your mature Prudence and Care, to endeavour (as much as possibly you can) to take away all occasions of Breaches between the well-affected Party: And that such as have in these late Times of Trouble (by adventuring their Lives or otherwise) approved themselves faithful to their Country's common Good, may, without respect to Differences, no way prejudicial to the Common-wealth, impartially enjoy their Birthright-Privileges, and be equally capable with others of the Freedom to officiate in Places of Trust, which they are or shall be chosen unto. And, on the contrary, that all those who have disfranchised themselves, by traiterously adhereing to the Enemy, may be disabled from bearing Office, or voting in the Election of Officers in the Common-wealth. And we further crave, (with Submission to your Honours grave Approvements) that in regard of the Kingdom's present Unsettledness, it may not be left destitute of a trusty and sufficient Guard to secure it from Intestine Broils and Foreign Invasion. And as for your Petitioners more particular Grievances, as they are Members of this City, we humbly pray, That you would be pleased, by your Authority, so to provide, that we (as we are or shall be capable of it) may be enabled to enjoy the Benefit of all ancient Charters and Grants, made and confirmed by several Acts of Parliament, for the Enlargement of our Freedoms and Privileges and that whatsoever hath been illegally intruded, may be taken away and made void. And lastly, As some have already desired, we likewise pray, That (if so small a Thing may be worthy the intention of this Grave and Honourable Assembly) you would be pleased to appoint some Time of lawful Recreations for Servants, as your Wisdoms shall think fit.

And your Petitioners, as they have many of them already (according to their Duty) freely adventured their Lives, and whatsoever. was dear to them for the common Safety of their Country, so they still profess their Readiness to give their best Assistance to the suppressing all arbitrary and tyranical Power, and to the upholding the fundamental Rights and Liberties of free-born English Men, and the just Privileges of this Honourable House against all that shall set themselves in Opposition of the same.

And be ever bound to pray, &c.

Whatsoever is contained in the Petition, the Subscribers will be ready to make good by particular Instances, when they shall be lawfully called to the same.

Garrisons.

A Report was this Day made to the House of Commons, concerning the Garrisons to be continued and dismantled in this Kingdom. And they

Ordered thereupon that Wallingford-Castle and Works, Cambridge new Works about it since these Wars, Nantwich Works, Lime Works, Stockton-Castle, Sheffield-Castle, should be dismantled.

That as to the slighting of Midleham, of Bolton, and Hennesley-Castle, the House adheres to the former Votes.

Earl of Kildare.

The House of Lords likewise sent the Petition of the Earl of Kildare to the House of Commons; and for their Concurrence to an Order for advancing Monies to his Lordship.

Not proper for Lords to meddle with Money.

The House of Commons ordered, that in respect: their Lordships had pass an Order for Monies (which the House of Commons conceiving was no ways proper for their Lordships to intermeddle with) they ordered, that the said Petition should be rejected: But the next Order was for advancing 200 l. to His Lordship.

That the Treasurers at Weavers-Hall should give an, Account what Monies have been received and paid by them.

That the Committee at Weavers-Hall do not pay any more Money till the 200000l. for the Army be fir it paid.

An Ordinance was-read for constituting Dr. Clarke to be Judge of the Admiralty, which was upon the Question past, and ordered to be sent to the Lords for their Concurrence.

This Day a contrary Party of Apprentices petition.

To the Honourable the Lords and Commons assembled in Parliament. The Humble Petition of those well-affected to the Government, both Toung-men and Apprentices of the City of London, subscribed by above Ten Thousand Hands. Tresented to both Houses of Parliament, on Wednesday the 14th of July, 1647. Together with the Answers of both the Honourable Houses thereunto.

Six of the Petitioners being at the Door of the Houseos Peers, were all immediately called up to the Bar, where one of them, in the name of the Subscribers, spake as followeth.

My Lords,
If it may please this Honourable House, we are commanded hy the Young-Men and Apprentices of the City of London, to present your Honours with this their humble Petition, being in pursuance of their Covenant with God which is upon them, humbly craving your charitable Constructions; their Ends being single, for the Glory of God, the Peace of the Kingdom, and Vindication of the Parliament.

To the Right Honourable the Lords in the High Court of Parliament assembled.

The Humble Petition of divers well-affected Young-Men and Apprentices of the City of London, &c.

Humbly Sheweth,
That your Petitioners have, with the forwardest, been ever ready in this common Caufe of Religion, Laws, and Liberties, to adventure their Lives for the Preservation thereof, which we hoped, after fo much Expence of Blood, and (by God's Providence) such happy Success of your Armies, would have been settled to us and our Posterities in a lasting Peace; yet, to the Grief of our Hearts, your Petitioners cannot but take notice, how in these unhappy Times of Distraction, divers discontented Persons labour to sow new Seeds of Discord and Divisions among us, whereby Incendiaries and Malignants are encouraged, your faithfullest Friends discouncenanced, the Privileges of Parliament violated, Magistracy opposed, the Publick Worihip of God slighted, and the Liberties and Properties of the Subject much endangered: All which your Petitioners laying sadly to Heart, and having more before their Eyes the Glory of God, and the Happiness of His Majesty's Kingdoms, than their own private Inperests (which we shall readily sacrifice for the Publick) do in all Humility most humbly pray,

1. That according to our Solemn League and Covenant, His Majesty's Royal Person be may defended; and that His just Power and Greatness (in the Preservation and Defence of the true Religion and Liberties of the Kingdoms) may be established.

2. That the Rights and Privileges of Parliament may be vindicated, and the lawful Liberties and Property of the Subjects preserved and maintained.

3. That the Government of the Church may be speedily settled, Conventicles (the Seminaries of Separation) suppress'd, and a Toleration of licentious Liberty effectally declared against.

4. That all Incendiaries, Malignants, and Evil Instruments, which hinder the Reformation of Religion, dividing the King from his People, or one of his Kingdoms from another, or make any Faction or Parties among the People (contrary to the solemn League and Covenant) may be brought to publick Trial, and receive condign Punishment.

5. That all Obstructions in the ordinary Courts of Justice may be removed, and the insufferable abuse of Committees and their Officers considered.

6. That the Arrears of your Soldiery of this Kingdom may be satisfied, and Security granted for their further Indempnity, for all Acts done by them, Tempore & loco belli.

7. That the Army now on foot may be disbanded, or otherwise disposed of, that so this almost exhausted Kingdom may be freed from those many grievous Taxes and Oppressions it now groans under.

8. And whereas there have been, and still are, great Abuses, and insufferable Injuries done to your Petitioners by the Sale of Freedoms, and Foreigners intruding into the Suburbs and Places near adjacent to this City; whereby your Petitioners are much discouraged in their Service, the Free Men of this City prejudiced, and the Franchises and Liberties thereof infringed. We therefore humbly beseech this Honourable Assembly to resolve on some course (as in your Wisdom shall think fit) as well for the expulsion of such as have so unduly crept in amongst us, as for the future prevention of the like insufferable Injuries that may redound to your Petitioners hereafter.

And your Petitioners being always ready to adventure their Lives and Fortunes for your Defence and Preservation, shall ever pray, &c.

Die Mercurii, 14 Julii, 1647.

The Answer of the House of Peers was thus:

Gentlemen,
The Lords have commanded me to return you hearty Thanks for the good Affections, and pious Care for the publick Peace of the Kingdom, which you have expressed by your Petition. Their Lordships will take the Particulars thereof into their speedy Consideration.

Jo. Brown, Cler. Parliament.

Die Mercurii l4 Julii, 1647.

The Answer of the House of Commons to the like Petition.

Resolved, &c.
That the Answer to the Petitioners shall be, That the House has divers Matters of this Petition under Consideration, and will take the rest into Consideration in due time. Sir Thomas Soame and Mr. Vassal are appointed to acquaint the Petitioners with this Answer.

H. Elsing, Cler. Parl, d'Com.

The House of Peers ordered, upon the Petition of the Lord Marquis of Winchester, that for his Health he may have leave to go sometimes out of the Tower provided the Lieutenant of the Tower take such Security therein as he will answer for; and his Lordship not to lie out of the Tower, but always to come unto his Bed at Night.

Upon some Debate concerning the Earl of Clare, upon a Difference between his Lordship and another, it was ordered, That his Lordship have in particular the Privilege of a Peer.

Members present their own Cases.

Thursday, July 15, 1647. The House of Commons debated the Representation of the Members presented the Day before, upon the, Votes, how far they had Correpondency with the King, and pleading how they were forced by the Power of the King's Party upon them to do what they did. The House made an entrance herein, referred the business to a Committee, for whom the House voted Instructions for their Proceeding therein.

Members of the House present their Case.

Upon reading the Cases presented by divers Members, it was ordered, That the Case of Sir Charles Egerton, be referred to the Committee where Mr. Corbet hath the Chair, to confer with and examine him, and all Circumstances upon the said Case. The House declared, That all such Members of this House as have presented their Cases, and as shall within four Days present their Cases, in reference to the Votes concerning such Members as are not to fit in the House, shall not incur any further Danger or Penalty, other than their being disabled to fit this Parliament.

That such of their Members as had liberty to present their Cases in twenty Days time, and do accordingly, shall incur no other Danger or Penalty, than being disabled to sit during this Parliament.

That the State of the several Cases of John Doyly, and Bennet Hoskins, Esq; Sir Philip Percival, Tho. Cholmly, and Tho. Davis, Esq; Members, were all of them read, and referred to the same Committee.

A Letter this Day came from His Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, from Reading, with the Petition, Representation, and Declaration of the Soldiers of the Northern Association, and the two Petitions of the Nottingham-Shire Horse, the one to both Houses of Parliament, the other to his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, which take as follows, viz.

His Excellency's Letter is as followeth.

Mr. Speaker,
Having this Day received these inclosed Papers from the Northern Forces, under Colonel General Poyntz's Command, with some other Papers from Colonel Thornhagh's Regiment, (which is already march'd up to Bucks) wherein they express their Resolutions to associate themselves with this Army, for the more speedy and happy effecting a true, lasting, and well grounded Peace, to the King, Parliament, and Kingdom, and in Order to that, have delayed Obedience to the Command of many of their Officers, who for some Reasons best known to themselves have refused to joyn with them in their just he desires; and have also, as formerly, now again petitioned me to exempt them from further Obedience to any other Command, than what may conduce for the obtaining of the just Desires, and Establishment of the Peace of the Kingdom, as in the inclosed Papers is more fully exprest, and further desiring to march up speedily to the Army; all which being of so great Concernment to the Kingdom, and not well admitting of delay, I thought fit to represent unto you with speed their several Papers and Desires, that I might receive your Pleasure concerning the Things they desire, and your Commands for their present Disposal, to the end they may be the better kept in Discipline and Obedience, and such Disorders prevented, as by reason of their want of Officers, they may be Subject to run into, and likewise to continue them in the North, least by their Motion to the Army, they might draw to a greater concourse and burthen of Soldiers Quarters upon these Parts, than they will be well able to bear, and thereby the Disaffected in those Parts, (during their absence) may take that advantage to make Insurrections or any Disturbance of the Peace there: For the Prevention whereof, and Disposition of the whole, as well in order to the Peace of the Kingdom as speedy Relief of Ireland, I shall humbly make bold to offer my Opinion, that since there are many, several, distinct, and (through these late Distractions) disjoyned Forces within this Kingdom, which were sufficient, together with this Army my (being United and well Managed) both to preserve the Peace of this Kingdom, and give present Relief to Ireland (without putting the Kingdom to the Charge of raising new Forces at present for that Service) that the Parliament would speedily put all the Force under one and the same Command, Discipline, and equal Establishment for future Pay and Maintenance, which being done, it would give much Encouragement to some of the Forces, that may be spared out of all the Forces mentioned, from England, to go more cheerfully into Ireland; and if with this there were some present Course taken to provide for Arrears for such Forces as might be spared for Ireland, there might in probability be an effectual Relief sent over into Ireland before this Summer be quite spent: All which I humbly tender to your Consideration, and desire your speedy Answer, that no time may be lost in so good and necessary a Work, both for the Quiet of this Kingdom, and Relief Ireland; wherein none shall be more ready to express their forwardness than

Your most Humble Servant,
Thomas Fairfax.

Reading, July 16, 1647.

July 15, 1647.

A Declaration and Representation from the Forces of the Northern Association to his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, and by him presented to the Parliament.

A Declaration of the free Consent and Coherence of the Soldiers in the Northern Association, with the Army now under the Command of his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax.

Whereas there hath been an Express of the real and Honourable Intentions and Grounds of and from the Army manifested, (in most just and honest Terms to the Houses of Parliament and Kingdom) clearing to every indifferent and sound Judgment the Cause of their Proceedings, for the Kingdom, and in it their own Dues, and interested Satisfactions: We having, by God's Providence, the Opportunity to shew our Affections, no less ready and inclinable to maintain and confirm the lawful obtaining! of our Rights and just Privileges, by themselves so declared to be: We therefore declare, as in Duty bound, for the Mercies we have received from God, and the Faithful Service we owe to the Kingdom, to joyn and associate our selves with the Southern Army, under the Command of his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, for the speedy and happy effecting a true, lasting, and well-gounded Peace, wherein may consist the Preheminence of all Honour and Welfare, both to the King, Parliament, and Kingdom, and that there may be no misapprehensions, as usually publick Resolutions and Resolves are lyable unto at the first appearing, in the Eyes of Men unacquainted in the Business, and in the Eyes of those (who being prepossessed of Guilt, cunningly oppose.) We further declare our selves free from any secret Intentions, in reference to the promotion of any particular Design, or our own particular Interests, but are absolutely raised and moved to a necessary compliance with that Army, upon those good and infallible Principles, which tendeth to the promotion and protection of Justice, and the Liberty of the Subject, as hitherto (by the. management of the Affairs of so great Importance) have appeared; we shall no less endeavour to defend with our Lives and Estates, the lawful Designs of those well affected Soldiers, than we would oppose a Foreign Invasion, or prevent an indirect or unwarantable War, our Warrant being the same for either, Nature or Law, and the Covenant binding thereto.

We shall therefore prosecute the discovery of all Persons complotted and combined against us, that we may keep our Friends and Nation free from any in forced Injury or Prejudice whatsoever, especially we giving to understand that we have not any Intentions to spill the Blood of any Man, or to wrong them in their proper Goods, or intrench upon the Confidence of any, our cheifest care being in this our Declaration and Intention at present and for the future, to provide for a Correspondency with that Army, to live or die, rejoyce or suffer with them, as we are mutually engaged; our expectations of Rewards being no other than the salving of those Grievances published from that Army (with our own) the Soldiers Honour and Livelihood repaired, their Services thankfully requited, and all corrupt Persons in Authority, in Courts of Judicature, and Offices of the Kingdom, expunged and all such several good Acts, as shall be for the present and future concernment of the Kingdom, established, which as they are most satisfactory to the generality, so we desire not to require an addition of Redresses of an particular Mans Wants or Sufferings whatsoever, but attend on the general business in Hand, for the Accomplishment of the Army's, our own and the well affected of the Kingdom's Desires and just Demands, the Necessity Justice, and Sincerity whereof, we desire to vindicate as our Lives.

Pontesract, July 5, 1647

The Humble Representation of the Soldiers of the Northern Association, presented first to his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, and to be by him presented to the Honourable Houses of Parliament.

1. That the Honourable Houses of Parliament would be pleased to look upon the Representative Desire and Grievances of his Excellency's Army, as our Desires arid Grievances, which we humbly desire may be fully (not feignedly) granted and redressed.

2. That whereas the Parliament was pleased to declare against their just Desires contained in their Representations, and proceed to disband before redress of their Grievance; We humbly desire that the Representations of the aforesaid Desires, and Obstruction of the just Satisfactions, their Desires and Grievances being ours, may be brought forth to Legal Trial.

3. That the illegal Imprisonment of several Officers, and the endeavours used by some to imprison others for speaking in the behalf of his Excellency's Army, and their just Dues, may be repaired, and the Occasioners thereof dealt with according to their Deserts.

4. That those who endeavoured to render his Excellency's Army odious by Aspersions, and thereby to deprive them of that Honour which they have so dearly bought, and to incense the Kingdom and Soldiers against them, may be proceeded against according to Justice.

5. That such Provision may be made for better supply of us for the future whereby we may be enabled to discharge our Quarters, that so we may not for necessary Food be beholding to the Parliament's Friends, who have spent their Estates in the Service, whose Preservation is the thing we desire, and in whose Happiness we rejoyce.

To his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, Captain General of all the Forces raised for the Parliament of England, Dominion of Wales.

The Humble Desires of the Soldiers of the Northern Association.

Sheweth,
That whereas your Excellency's Petitioners have, for some few Years past, served the Parliament and Kingdom in the late unnatural Wars, and having undergone the same with all chearfulness, and readiness, notwithstanding the sad discontentment, and the sad sufferings which we have undergone, being not at all thereby so discouraged as to manifest any visible distemper, or unwillingness unto the aforesaid Service; our Conditions being at present so uncertain, that we know not to whom to repair as our Chief Conductor, and by reason of the same we are exposed to an incapacity of being made partakers of the fruits of our unwearied Travails and dangerous Services, out of the experience that we had of your Excellency's care for the Satisfaction and Preservation both of Soldiers and Subjects, we are emboldened to present these as follows.

That your Excellency would be pleased to make our Satisfaction and Preservation, the Object of your Excellency's Care, together with the Army at present under your Excellency's Command, and resident with you.

That to the End we may be exempted from further Obedience to any other Command than what may conduce for the obtaining of our just Dues and Privileges, the establishing of the Peace of the Kingdom, and with which your Excellency's Advice and Approbation shall concur.

That your Excellency would be pleased to recommend this annexed Representation of our Desires to the Parliament, to prevent Misunderstanding betwixt the Parliament and the Soldiers of this Kingdom, for the obtaining or. their just Desires, and putting an End to these present Distractions.

And your Petitioners shall pray, &c.

Agitated in the behalf of the several respective Regiments.

This to be subscribed by all Officers and Soldiers in the Regiment, &c.

Whereas the Officers and Soldiers of several Regiments of the Army, under the Command of Sir Thomas Fairfax, did on the 5th of June last past, at a general Rendezvous near Newmarket, enter into an Engagement, to and with each other, and to and with the Parliament and Kingdom, which Engagements having been since Printed and Published, have now been read unto us; We the Officers and Soldiers under the Command of Colonel Thornhagh, do hereby declare ourselves to enter into the same Engagement with the Army, and to and with each other, and to and with the Parliament and Kingdom In Testimony whereof we subscribe our Hands.

Nottingham, July 7, 1647.

• George Palmer, Captain.
• Rich. Frank, Quartermast.
• Edw. Krik, Quartermast.
• Francis Sutley.
• John Cook.
• William Roof.
• Robert Marshal.
• William Royston.
• Robert Alsret.
• Robert Hide.
• John Brittain.
• Thomas Pond.

To his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, General of the Forces raised by Authority of Parliament.

The Humble Petition of the Nottinghamshire Horse.

Sheweth,
That although we the Regiment under the Command of our Honoured Colonel, Colonel Thornhagh, never had so much our own Desires as to serve under the Command of your Excellency in that your Gallant and Faith. ful Field-Army; yet having received a Resolution, went to the Justice of our Cause by your Excellency's Virtual Presence, in the Commissions of our Honoured Commanders, we may without Vanity profess, that in our Orbs we have moved for the advancing and procuring this Kingdom's Peace and Liberty so cheerfully, that we cannot doubt your Excellency's Countenance and Assistance, which we humbly implore in our Humble Addresses to this Parliament: professing that such is our Resentment of the Injuries done unto you, as done unto our selves, neither will we hope to stand, if you fall, nor fear falling if you stand, when nothing is controverted, but the fame for which we first engaged, and dare not recede from, (viz.) That the Privilege of Parliament of Free-born Subjects, and Reformation of Charters and Common-Wealths: and as to the better effecting of these, the necessary and just Vindication of the too much slighted Soldiery, amongst which your humble Petitioners, who have from the Beginning of our Engagements, which bears Date almost with the Beginning of these Wars, served the Parliament almost these five Years, and have not received for our Service past 6 s. per Week in Money nor free Quarter, one Week with another, and that there is at this Time due unto this Regiment 40000 l. and upwards, that we have not received above one Month's Pay; and having for our present Accommodation and Maintenance no other Subsistence, than what a small and harrassed County of Charity (which is malignant) will afford in Meat and Drink: A slender Requital as we conceive for our loss of Blood.

Our Humble Request unto your Excellency is, that you will recommend our further Addresses unto the Consideration of the Honourable Houses of Parliament, whereby we may obtain the Wages of our Blood, our Arrears, arid such present Maintenance, as first when we engaged under their Service were promised, and yet that we may not hereby be understood, to be unconcerned in, or disengaged from the past or future Necessity of the Army, in the plain and honest Prosecutions of their Proportions and Desires in the late Declarations, and that we, according to our Proportion of Time and Arrears may be satisfied, as the Army shall be for their Proportions.

Subscribed George Palmer Captain, and the rest.

To the Right Honourable the Lords and Commons Assembled in Parliament.

The Humble Petition of the Nottinghamshire Horse, &c.

Humbly Sheweth,
That whereas we the Regiment under the Command of our Noble, and ever Honoured Colonel Francis Thornhagh (a Member of the House of Commons) have for the space of 5 Years, or thereabouts, with Faithfulness served the Kingdom by the Authority and Command of the Parliament, against theirs and the Kingdoms Enemies, having been according to our Employment Accessaries to whatever hath been done, as to the dear purchasing of Peace and Liberty to the Poor (yet Free-born) People of this Kingdom, and are notwithstanding in Arrears at the least 40000 l. for the voluntary (yet conditional) Service, which with the Expence of some Blood we have performed, neither have we ever received our Monies, or free Quarter in a Sum (if the total of all was here remised, as might, computed, make every Week) worth 6 s. unto us, since we have born Arms: Our present Quality now being such as renders us unable to subsist, or compel a Livelihood by any regular way of our poor exhausted Country; neither are we assured of the Wages of our Blood, our just, well deserved and often promised Arrears.

We therefore humbly pray, for whatsoever shall be granted (in relation to the Soldiers and Peoples Good) to the faithful Army of Yours, under the Command of Sir Thomas Fairfax (who have been alike faithful to their Trust) according to the Propositions of their Arrears and time, and in the mean while, that such pay, as in New-Model was allowed to all, (but never paid to us) may be duly deposited for our present Maintenance.

And we shall ever pray, &c.

Subscribed as the former.

That the Business of Ireland was ordered to be debated to Morrow the first Business.

Colonel General Poyntz secured by his soldiers.

A Letter this Day came from Colonel General Poyntz, and another from his Wife, of the manner of his Imprisonment by his own soldiers, and seizing his Goods, was read.

A Copy of these two Letters were order'd to be sent to the General, and he desir'd to give his Directions for his Discharge, or sending up.

Another Letter to be sent to the Lord Mayor of York, to require him to discharge and restore Colonel General Poyntz's Goods to him.

Kings Children.

His Majesty's children did this Day set forth from St. James's House in Westminster, attended with the Earl of Northemberland, to wait upon their Father, they intended to dine at Maidenhead, and from thence go to Causam House.

Ireland, orders for Monday.

Friday, July 16, 1647. the House this Day spent much time in debate of the Business of Ireland, as was before ordered, and their sending Suppliers of Monday thither, and passed several Votes and Orders for this purpose.

Ordered that 10000 l. in specie be sent to Dublin for the forces in Lenster.

Ordered 8000 l. for the Forces in Connaught, called the Legar Forces, under Sir Charles Coote.

Ireland.

Sir Charles Coote to command the Legar Forts, as he commands the caught Forces now. Sir Charles Steward to have the Chief Command of the Legar Forces next under Sir Charles Coote. Seven thousand Pounds ordered for the rest of the forces of Ulster, not of the Legar Forces.

Colonel Monke ordered to command the forces of Ulster that are not under Sir Charles Coote.

That the General be desired to send a Convoy of 200 House with these Monies to the Watersideo.

Ormond.

A Proposition and Desire of the Earl of Ormond, to transport out of Ireland, 5500 Men for France, was debated, and denied by the House.

That those that lest the Army upon pretence for Ireland, be disbanded.

Some propositions were then also read coming from the Army, in relation to the Affairs in Ireland and ordered thereupon, that the four Regiments of Foot that same from the Army, Under pretence of engagement for Ireland but remaining still in this kingdom be disbanded.

That all the new commission-Officers in these Regiments shall have all their Arrears, one Moiety being deducted for free Quarter, and disbanded.

That the Commission-Officers, that have not received their three Months Pay formerly ordered, shall receive it at their disbanding.

The Kings Children.

The Duke of York, and the rest of the King's children, came to Maidenhead Yesterday by 10 in the Morning, the Townsmen and Country People understanding of their coming, and that the King was to meet them there, flocked in great numbers to see them, and strewed the Ways and Streets with green Boughs, Herbs, and Flowers: His Majesty came to Maidenhead about 11 of the Clock to the Grayhound, where the Princes were: No small Joy was expressed betwixt His Majesty and Children at their first meeting, and after some time spent in Congratulation, His Majesty and Children went to Dinner, and dined all of them at one Table; after Dinner, His Majesty returned back, and the Children along with him to Causam, where they are to remain for two Days, and then return back to London.

There were two Troops of Colonel Whaley's Horse only, that guarded His Majesty and Company from Causam, and back again.

Treaty with the Army.

Further from Reading, the Head Quarters of the Army, came Letters certifying that the Treaty goes on, and we hope will prove effectual; some Grand Propositions and Proposals are drawing up, and were debated by a Council of War this Day, which the Army conceive necessary absolutely to insist upon ('tis said about twenty five in number) and be suddenly sent to the Parliament.

Colonel Poyntz.

Colonel General Poyntz was brought to Reading by the Soldiery last Night, lay at the George, the General and he had some Discourse, and ('tis conceiv'd) he will send him up to London according to the Votes of the House Yesterday; the General hath granted a Pass to his Lady to go from York to London, and an Order to receive the Goods of her Husband at York and Pontefract.

Saturday, July 17. The House of Commons this Day further proceeded, as in relation to the Business Yesterday, for the better carrying on the Peace of this Kingdom and the Reducement of Ireland; and after a long Debate, the Houses came to this Resolution, and Voted,

Sir Thomas Fairfax to command all the Land Forces.

That all the Land Forces within the Kingdom of England, Dominion of Wales, Isles of Guernsey and Jersey, under the Pay of the Parliament, shall be under the mediate Command of his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, in order to the Security and Peace of the Kingdom, the Reducing of Ireland, and disbanding such as shall be thought fit by both Houses. Ordered further, that all the Forces raised, and added to the Four Regiments of Foot that came off from the Army, that undertook for the Service of Ireland, and remain in this Kingdom, shall be forthwith disbanded, and repair to their several Homes, according to the Votes passed Yesterday, and that care be taken of seeing this done.

Reformadoes.

The House also further considered of the late Order for putting Reformadoes out of the Line, and now further ordered, that the Militia of London do forthwith look unto, and put the said Ordinance in execution for putting Reformadoes out of the Line.

Teasurers.

The Treasurers at Weavers Hall, this Day according to order presented to the House their Account of the Receipt and Disbursements of the 200000 l. which was ordered to be debated on Monday next.

The Commons ordered 16800 l. to be paid to the Treasurers at Wars, out of Weavers Hall, in part of 200000 l. for the Army.

The House then order'd also to resume the further Debate of the Garrisons of this Kingdom on Monday next, and so adjourn'd till Monday.

The House of Peers this Day passed the Ordinance for Dr. Clerk to be Judge of the Admiralty, and also to the Votes for the 2000 l. to Colonel Massy, in part of his Arrears.

The Eleven Members put in their Answer.

Monday, 19. This Day (according to former order) the Eleven Impeached Members, viz. Denzil Hollis, Esq; Sir Philip Stapleton, Sir William Waller, Sir John Maynard, Kt. Major General Massy, John Glynn, Esq; Recorder of London, Walter Long, Esq; Colonel Edward Harley, and Anthony Nichol, Esq; all of them present in their own Persons, presented a Paper to the House of Commons, in Answer to the particular Charge or Impeachment, in the Name of his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, and the Army under his Command against them; which Answer is a Demurrer to the said Charge and Impeachment. Which Paper being delivered in by them, was read in the House, and laid aside for the present.

Garrisons.

The House then proceeded (as was last Week ordered) upon the further Debate of the Garrisons to be slighted; and they passed Votes for the slighting these Garrisons following, viz. All the Leicestershire Garrisons, Banbury, Litchfeild, Bridgwater, Mulgrave, Ruthen, Eccleshall, Tutbury, Dudley, Denby, Holt, Haverford West, Flint, Ruchland, Monmouth, with others.

Ordered further that the Deputy-Lieutenants of the several Counties, that are in the Ordinance for the Assessments of the 60000 l. per mensem, shall be appointed to see these Garrisons slighted accordingly.

Ordered that Bristol Castle, and great Fort, and Carnarvan be continued: That the Keys of these Garrisons be delivered to the Mayor of the respective Corporations, that the Government thereof may be as formerly.

Lawyers.

The Lawyers of the House of Commons that had a desire to go the Circuits, had this Day leave given them by the House, and their Absence shall be excused.

Colonel Birch's Regiment.

A Letter was read in the House from Colonel Birch, and a Copy of his Letter to his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, concerning some Distempers amongst the Regiment, who had secured his Lieutenant Colonel.

The House hereupon ordered, that the General should be desired to send away Colonel Birch's Regiment into Ireland, according to their former Engagement.

Scots Declaration against the Army.

From Scotland tis certified, that the General Assembly are now Sitting; they have great, Designs in hand, which a short time will give to understand further of; a Grand Declaration is likewise drawing up by them, concerning the Affairs in England, in relation to the King, Parliament, Kingdom, but against the Army.

Of the Affairs of Distressed Ireland, Letters this Day came out of Munster, tell of several late Prizes got by our Forces from the Rebels, but the Complaint of want of Money and Bread is very great; one of the Letters mention as followeth.

Good store of Cattle, &c. taken from the Rebels in Ireland.; Yet want of Bread.

We had a Party sent out the 24th of May, which returned the 25th, with 600 Head of Cattle, Sheep, and Garrons. The 28th of May we sent out another Party, which returned the 31st with 2000 and odd Cows and Oxen, and in sheep and Garrons so many as made them up 6000 and odd The 3d of June we sent forth another Party, which returned the 5th, with about 600Head of Cattle, besides 1500 Sheep, which the Soldiers killed at their Return; They also took in a Place called Castle Thomas, while the last Party was abroad. We had an hundred Horse to make good a Passage, which being careless, the Enemy drew some Musketeers through a Wood, between them and I home, so their Horse fell upon them in the Front, and the Musketeers in the Rear and killed betwixt 30 and 40 of them, All our Money is gone, and our Provision will not last past six or eight Days, so that except there come a fresh Supply out of England, and in many Places not to be bought for Money; and without Wheat to make Bisket, the Army will never be able to continue in the Field. It is true the Lord Inchiqueen doth what lieth in him, but he wanteth Assistance. We are now forced to leave the Field, and go to Garrison for want of Wheat and Money.

Youghall, July 1, 1647.

Dublin Castle designed to be betrayed.

From Dublin they write of a late Plot by some of the Popish Cavalry to betray Dublin Castle, but was discovered July 13 at Night, by an intercepted Letter: Divers mentioned in the Letter to be the Chief Actors herein, were taken into Custody until the Business should be fully examined. Preston with all his Forces is marching up towards our Quarters, his Expectations were great (it's conceived) upon the Design of Dublin Castle.

Owen Roe is with a great Force in Canought.

The Eleven Members offer freely to withdraw.

Tuesday, July 20. This Day Mr. Green Member of the House of Commons, acquainted the House, that he had a Message to deliver the House, voted to receive, and to be read, which was a followeth,

Whereas his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, and the Army do declare, that the Proceeding upon particular Proofs to make good the Charge, will probably take up much time, and the present Affairs of the Kingdom, in relation to those great Matters proposed by them, do (as they say) require a speedy Consideration, and that they propound, that those greater and general Matters of the Kingdom be first considered of and settled: And in regard it is supposed, that the Absence of these Members will make way for the present more quiet Proceedings, to settle the perplexed Affairs of the Kingdom.

That they and are so from making any Interruption or Disturbance to the Proceeding upon, or Settlement of the general Affairs of the Kingdom, that they desire,

1. That they may have leave to be absent themselves from the House for the space of six Months, to go about their particular Business.

2. That they may have Liberty, or so many of them shall desire it, to go beyond the Seas, and have Asses granted during that space of Time.

3. That by that time the said six Months shall be expired, they conceive, that the great and weighty Affairs, tending to the Peace, and Settlement of the Kingdom, will be over, and the House judge it seasonable to call them to a Trial.

The House debated their Desires, and upon the whole passed these Votes following.

Votes concerning the Eleven Members.

1. That Leave be given to Denzil Hollis, Esq; Sir Philip Stapleton, &c. for the space of six Months, to be absent from the House and to go into the Country, to follow their necessary Occasions of Business, as they shall think fit.

2. Secondly, That Denzil Hollis, Sir Philip Stapleton, &c. or any pf them, have leave to go beyond the Seas, provided, that they return to the Parliament within the space of six Months after this present, to attend the House upon the Business concerning the Charge brought into the House (from Sir Thomas Fairfax and the Army) against them.

That Mr. Speaker grant Warrants to Denzil Hollis, Esq; to Sir Philip Stapleton, &c. or any of them, that shall desire to go beyond the Seas, and to return within six Months after this present time.

Multitudes at the Stairs of the Parliament House.

The House was informed that there was a great Multitude of People upon the Stairs coming up td the Doors of the House, which kept a great Tumult there, to the Disturbance of many of the Members of the House: Ordered that the Guards attending the House should disperse these People, that the Serjeant at Arms do from the House acquaint the rude Multitude, that it is the pleasure of the House, that they disperse and remove themselves.

That a 100 Halberds be brought into the House for the Service thereof.

That 100 Halberds be brought into the House.

That the Militia be desired, that the Captain of the Guards that came down to guard the House, may have Directions constantly to suppress such People, as come for the Disturbance of the House.

That Colonel Web do come down daily, and see the Guards placed for the best Advantage, and Service of the House.

Letters this Day from the Parliament Commissioners in the Army came to the House, and therewith some further Proposals of the General and Council of War, which are as followeth.

Further Proposals from the Army.

1. That there be an effectual Declaration forthwith published to the whole Kingdom, against the inviting, bringing, or coming in of any Foreign Forces under any pretence whatsoever.

2. That the Army may be paid up equal with the Deserters thereof, according to the late Votes in Parliament: And that the Army may forthwith be put in a constant course of Pay, that they may not be so Burthensome and Oppressive to the Country; for the more speedy performance whereof, we desire that the House of Peers would be pleased to concur with the Desires of the House of Commons (so often proposed to them) for the reviving the Committee of the Army, that so the Assessments, and great Sums in Arrears, both in the City and elsewhere, may be by their Endeavours collected for the speedy and necessary supply of the Army: And also that the Treasurers, and the Committee at Weavers Hall, may be speedily called to Account, in what manner, and by what Warrants, the two hundred and thirty thousand Pounds, lately intrusted in their Hands, have been in so short a time consumed.

3. That the Militia of the City of London, and the Committee of the same, may consist of such Persons, and speedily be returned into those Hands, who formerly, during worst of Times, have therein given large Testimonies of their Fidelity to the Parliament and Kingdom, which, beside the real Security it will be to the Parliament and Kingdom, in preventing of Dangers re-preparing towards a new War, would conduce so much to the removing of Jealousies, and give such ground of Confidence to the Army, as that we might the better dispose of it to larger Quarters, in several Parts, for the ease of the Country.

4. According to, and in the pursuance of the of the Particular mentioned under the fifth Head of Representation of the Army, We do earnestly desire, that all Persons Imprisoned in England, or Dominion of Wales, not for Delinquency in relation to the late War, but for other Misdemeanors, and whose Imprisonment is not by the regulated Course of Law, but by order from either Houses of Parliament (or of Committees flowing from them) they be put into a speedy, regular, and equitable way of Trial, Or (if the necessity of Settling the general Affairs of the Kingdom admit not their present Trial) then they may have present Liberty, upon reasonable Security for their appearance at a certain Day, to answer what shall be charged against them in legal Way; and that when they shall be tryed, if they appear wrongfully, or unduly Imprison'd, they may have Reparation according to their Sufferings.

In particular, We desired this may be done, in behalf of Lieutenant Colonel John Lilburn, Mr. Overton, and others (in their Condition) Imprisoned in and about London.

Signed, By the Appointment of his Excellency Sir Tho. Fairfax, and the Council of War.

John Rushworth.

Reading, July 21. 1647.

A Letter to the Lord Mayor, Court of Aldermen, and Common Council of the City of London.

My Lords and Gentlemen,
In the carrying on of the great Business of the Kingdom, towards a general and happy Settlement, it has been a fixed Principle with us, to make it our first Endeavours with the Parliament, that all things which threaten an Engagement of the Kingdom in a second War, might be removed, before we could have a confident Expectation of a good Issue upon a Treaty with their Commissioners which Course of ours, although it might have some appearance of delay, yet by Men that are zealous of the Kingdom's Good, (we hope) no Endeavours will be judged unnecessary that may secure the Kingdom from the danger of any new Embroilments.

We are now come thus far, that the most material Particulars which we have in preparation to propose, for the general Settlement of the Affairs of the Kingdom, have been communicated to the Parliament's Commissioners, and we hope, they are satisfied, that they contain in them things tending to a General Good and to lay a hopeful Foundation for common Right and Freedom to the People of this Land for the future, and for a lasting Peace amongst us: But before we can securely intend and without Interruption, apply our selves unto the Proceedings and Dispatch of the Treaty thereupon, we have delivere'd into the Hands of their Commissioners the Paper which consists of three Particulars, in the last whereof (which is the Militia of the City) you being mo ft immediately concerned, to the end you may see we would ask nothing which relates to you without giving you a just Account thereof, and all the possible Satisfaction therein; we have also given a Copy thereof to your Commissioners, to be herewith sent unto you: We should not desire this, or any thing of that Nature, were we not perswaded that what we desire is seasonable, and for yours and the Kingdoms Good and Quiet; and we should willingly have been silent (as to this) but considering the just Jealousies which lie against some Persons, now authorized in that Power amongst you and those Attempts which have been made, by some, who would have engaged your City to a new War, had not your Lordship and Court of Aldermen, and Common Council, by your Wisdom prevented it, by getting those Votes, which were passed by the Militia, made Null. We cannot but in a Case of this Importance but deal freely with you, in desiring your Concurrence with ours to the Parliament, that the Militia may be changed into those Hands, out of which it was taken; of whose Gat and Fidelity to the Publick, there hath been so long and so large Experience as few Ages have parallel'd; and if the Interest we have so long sought for be still the same, let it not seem strange that we desire, both of Parliament and City that those may be in Places of such a Trust who have given the best Proof of their Courage and Constancy in Prosecution of the same.

Having thus far declared our selves with all Freedom and Chearfulness to you, as we do not doubt of your good acceptance of our Intention therein , so we desire your forwardness into a Work so much tending to mutual Confidence, and to prevent the Designs of any, who would, be glad to put Obstructions in the Way to a happy Conclusion, and envy nothing more than the continuance of aright Understanding between you and us.

Signed, By the Appointment of his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, and his Council of war.

John Rushworth.

Reading, July 19, 1647.

May it please your Lordship,
We made, a Dispatch unto you last Night very late, by the Post and gave you then a general Account of our Proceedings,

And after the reading of the Proposals mentioned in that Dispatch, had some Papers brought unto , by Sir Hardress Waller, and other Officers, containing some Desires of the Army, in order to their present Security, which Papers before they were transcribed, were sent for back again.

We expect the Return of them this Day, and shall thereupon transmit them to your Lordship with all speed.

In the mean time, it was held fit to desire the Lord Wharton, to come up to you for your more perfect Knowledge in any thing that may relate to our former Dispatches; and that nothing may be wanting on our Parts, in discharge of the Trust reposed in us, who are

Your Lordship's Humble Servants,
Nottingham.

Reading, July 19. 1647.

Since the writing of this Letter, these enclosed Papers have been brought unto us by some of the Officers of the Army, which we held our Duty immediately to send to you.

Wednesday, July 21. 1647. This Day the Commons read the foregoing Proposals from the Army, and after some time in Debate upon them,

Ordered to take them into further Consideration, as they lie in order to Morrow Morning.

Ordered, That the Abuses of distributing Monies, lately to the Officers and Soldiers, be referred to the Committee, that Auditor Wilcox, and Auditor Board do attend the Committee.

Such Officers and Soldiers as came from the Army, to be turned, out of the Line by the Militia..

That several Members of the House, that are of the City, should give an Account what the Militia hath done, in turning Officers and Soldiers out of the Lines of Communication.

That a Message be sent to the Lords, to agree with the Commons, in Disbanding such as came off from the Army.

Excise.

An Ordinance passed the house this Day, for transferring some Part of the Additional Excise for the Maintenance of the maimed Soldiers.

Colonel Jones ill Success near Dublin, by Preftion's Forces.

Letters were read in the House from Dublin, giving to understand that Tuesday the 12th Instant, Colonel Jones marched with 3000 Horse and Foot; the next Day he had notice of Preston's March that way: Colonel Jones endeavoured to make good all Passes to hinder Preston's coming to Dublin, and about 12 Miles from Dublin, had an Alarm of the Rebels near Approach: They faced each other, but Preston (whose Strength was between 7 or 8000 Well armed) fell on our Men, and forced us to retreat, pursuing us four Miles, but our Men got into Garrisons, some 12 killed, Captain Meredith either taken or killed. Our Forces are in a very sad Condition, and so like to be, except speedy Supplies be sent over.

The Army and Derby-House to send Forces for Dublin.

The Commons voted, First, That the said Paper be communicated to the Committee for Ireland at Derby-House; and, Secondly, That they be also sent to his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, that some Course may be considered of, for the speedy fending of Forces over, for the Reducing of that Kingdom.

The Head Quarters to be at Alesbury. The King at Woburn.

By Letters from the Army, We understand, that for the better Ease of the Country, the General is removing his Quarters from Reading, towards Alesbury; His Majesty goes also from Causam to the Earl of Bedford's at Woburn, near Barkbamstead in Hertfordshire. Hence tis said, the Army will remove further towards Bedford. The King is to be at Woburn on Friday.

Against Foreign Forces coming in.

Thursday, July 22, 1647. This Day the Commons further debated, the first Head of the last Proposal from the Army against the inviting in of Foreign Forces, and they came to this Resolution concerning the same, and voted, That there is no cause for inviting or bringing. in any Forces into this Kingdom; and that they do declare, that whosoever shall bring in, call, or invite any Foreign Forces to come into this Kingdom, without the Consent of both Houses, are Traitors, and so shall be proceeded against, and suffer as Traitors. Which Votes were also sent up to the Lords for their Concurrence.

The Commons then also made some entrance upon the second Proposal concerning the Army's Pay, but came to no Conclusion upon the same.

Ministers petition for Tyths.

Divers Ministers presented a Petition to the House of Peers, acquainting their Lordships, that they have in their several Places suffered much by the Enemy, and that they cannot receive their Tyths, desiring that some Course may be taken for their Relief: Their Petition was read, and they called in and delivered their Cases at the Bar.

Colonel Fox.

A Petition was also read and delivered to the Lords, in the behalf of Colonel Fox.

Lord Inchiqueen for Provisions.

Their Lordships sent a Message to the House of Commons for their Concurrence in their Particulars for Monies, for one of Plymouth, who has done good Service in transporting of Provision for the, Use of the Kingdom, for 7000 l. for Supply of Lord Inchiqueen's Forces in Munster, who are in great Want, and without speedy Supply will be in danger to be lost.

Well-affected Captains displaced by the Militia.

Several Petitions of the Ward of Walbrook, Portsoken, and others of the City, were this Day presented to the House and read, their Petitions complaining, that the Captains, of those Wards were Godly, Honest, Deserving Men, and that they were displaced by the Militia of London, without any Cause, except for their good Affections to the Parliament.

The Militia returned into the Hands of the old Militia Men.

The House hereupon again debated the second Desire of the Army, for the Militia to return into the old Commissioners Hands; and the Question being put, whether it should be restored into the same Hands as it was in before the last Change; it was past in the Affirmative, and an Ordinance was ordered to be brought in for this purpose to Morrow.

To consider how to lessen the Charge of the Forces and Garrisons.

As to the third Desire, the House ordered the Commissioners of both Houses in the Army should acquaint the General, what the Sense of the House was, and what they had done concerning the same. The House Likewise further ordered, that the General should be moved by the Commissioners of the Army, to consider how the Charge of the Forces and Garrisons of the Kingdom may be lessened, and the Service of Ireland advanced.

A Petition and Engagement of dangerous Consequences.

A Petition and Engagement of a dangerous Consequence, as the Case of the Kingdom now stands, of many Officers, Citizens, Watermen, and Seamen of London, the Copy whereof was brought to the House, and was read, and upon Debate thereof, ordered a Committee to find put the Authors and Promoters thereof, and had Power to send for Parties and Witness; and the further Consideration of this Business was referred until to Morrow, and a Declaration appointed to be drawn up against it.

Dr. Walker Judge of the Admiralty.

The Lords sent a Message to the Commons with a second Ordinance concerning Dr. Walker, Judge of the Admiralty, the former being defective in some things; which Ordinance was read, and upon the Question, past the House.

The Heads briefly of the grand Proposals of the Army.

Somewhat further was intimated this Day from the Army, that the grand Proposals are now almost finished, and will be shortly sent up, they are many and large, but these are said to be some of the Heads of them.

That an express Time be set, longer than which this Parliament may not sit.

Parliament to end.

That this Parliament ending, all Parliaments hereafter be Biennial.

Intervals.

That in the Intervals of Parliament there may be a Council of State of twenty one, who are to have the Militia by Sea and Land in their Power, and to be as a Privy Council for Affairs with Foreign Nations.

Justice.

That Justice be done on some of the grand Incendiaries.

That Delinquents pay Compositors; yet that there may be such Moderation used, that such as compound may not be ruined.

Oblivion.

That there may be a general and full Act for Oblivion.

Church.

That all Penal Statutes for not coming to Church be taken off, with many others.

Conventicles.

This Day also came Letters from the Parliament's Commissioners with the Army, with a further Proposal from the General and Army, for the Discharge of such Imprisoned under pretence of Conventicles or private Meetings for Religious Duties, the Proposal is as followeth.

Imprisonment.; Private Meetings.; Common-Prayer:; Statutes.

Whereas divers Persons, really affected to the Zeal and Peace of this Kingdom, many whereof have engaged their Estates and Lives with the Parliament in the late War, are now imprisoned, indicted, and otherwise grievously vexed (and many others liable to the like Trouble) by Force and Pretence of several Statutes, especially intended against those, who repair not to some Church or Chapel to hear the Book of Common-Prayer, or against those who are Popish Recusants, and by their not going to Church might be discovered, and those who should hold any Conventicles of Meetings, to plot land conspire some Mischief to the State: Now forasmuch as the Parliament hath declared against the Book of Common-Prayer, and that the said Act against Conventicles was not intended against the People meeting only for Religious Exercises: We therefore desire that all Persons proceeded against, upon the Statute of 31 Eliz. or upon any other Statute or Acts whatsoever, of the same Tenor with the Premises, may be forthwith discharged from their Imprisonment, Indictments, or any other Molestation whatsoever, by Virtue of the forementioned Statutes, unless such Persons shall be proved Popish Recusants, (and that by some other way than by their not corning to Church) or to have, in such Private Meetings as aforesaid, some dangerous Design, Conspiracy and Practice against the State.

Judges to release Persons so imprisoned.

And for a more effectual Course, we desire the Parliament would be pleased to give Orders accordingly to all the Judges of Assizes, for this next Circuit throughout the Kingdom of England, Dominion of Wales (as part of their lnstructions) to acquit all Persons suffering as aforesaid, by Virtue or under Pretence of the said Statutes, otherwise than as before excepted, and to give the whole matter so in Charge, that all Justices of the Peace, and whom else the same shall concern, may not henceforth attempt to bring the like Trouble upon any other of the Well-affected People of this Kingdom under the like Pretence, as they will answer the contrary at their Peril.

Reading, July 21, 1647.

Friday, July 23.

This Day according to the former Order, an Ordinance was reported to the house for the Disposal of the Militia of the City into the old commissioners hands; was read the first and second time, and committed.

A Declaration was then reported to the House, upon the dangerous Petition and Engagement (a little before mentioned) on foot in the City; was upon Reading likewife committed.

And it was ordered that the Committee to whom thefe two last were referred, (hould bring the fame in with the Amendments into the House in the Afternoon.

Accordingly the House fat in the Afternoon, and the new Ordinance for the Militia with the Amendments was reported, and after much Debate, passed, and feat to the Lords, who concurred herein also with the Commons, by which Ordinance, that of the 4th of May for the new Militia is revoked, and the old Militia Men again inslated with the fame Power and Authority to all Intents and Purposes, as the Militia formerly had, to continue during the Pleafune of the Parliament.

This Ordinance being thus past both Houses, it was Ordered that the Militia of the City should meet this Night, and take Order for the Security of the City and the Parliament against all Tumults, &c. A Report was then likewise made to the House of Commons, of the Amendments to the Declaration against the Petition and Engagement before mentioned, whereof more hereafter.

The Captain of Westminster was ordered to draw up his Company in readiness for the Safety of the Parliament and City of Westminster.

Ordered likewise that Colonel Manning's Troop of Horse should attend the House for a Guard.

Die Veneris, 23 julii, 1647,

Ordinance a bout sestling the Militia of London.

The Lords and Commons in Parliament Assembled, taking into their serious Considerations, the present State and Condition of the Kingdom of England, and particularly of the City of London: do ordain and declare, and be it ordained and declared by the Authority of Parliament, That the Lord Mayor and Sheriffs of the City of London, for the time being, Sir John Wolaston, Isaac Pennington, Thomas Askins, John Warner; James Bunce, John Fowk, William Oibbs, John Kendrick, John Langbam, and Richard Chambers, Aldermen, Field Marshal Skippon, Randal Manwaring, Francis Peck, Samuel Warner, James Russel, Nathaniel Wright, William Burkley, Alexander Notmington, Stephen Estwiek, Owen Rowy Richard Turner, Senior, William Hobson, Richard Bateman, Richard Turner, Junior, Robert Titchburn, Tempest Milner, William Antrobs, Thomas Player, Senior, Samuel Harsnet, Francis Allen, Colonel Wilson, Colonel Bellamy, Alexander Jones, Citizens; or any Nine or more of them, be, and are hereby, censtituted and appointed a Committee for the Militia of the City of London and Liberties thereof, and all cither Places within the Lines of Communication, and Weekly Bills of Mortality; and shall have Power, and are hereby Authorized to assemble and call together, all and singular Person, and Persons, of the said City of London, and Liberties thereof, within tine Lines of Communication, and Weekly Bills of Mortality, that are meet, and sit for the Wars, and them to train, exercise, and put in readiriess,. and them, after their Abilities and faculties, Well and sufficiently, from Time to Time, to cause to be arrayed and weaponed, and to take the Musters of them in Places most fit for that purpose; and that they shall have Power to lead, conduct, and employ the Persons aforesaid, arrayed, and weaponed, for the suppression of all Rebellious, Instructions, and Invasions, that may happen within the said City, and Liberties thereof or within the Lines of Communication, and Weekly Bills of Mortality; and likewise shall have further Power and Authority, to lead, conduct, and employ the Persons aforesaid, arrayed, and weaponed, as Well within the said City, as within any other parts of this Realm of England, or Dominion of Wales, for the suspression of all Rebellions, Instructions, and Invasions, that may Happen, according as they shall from Time to Time, receive Directions from the Lords and Commons assembled in Parliament; and that the said Committee, or any Nine, or more of them, as aforesaid, shall have Power, and are hereby Authorized to constitute and make Colonels, Captains, and other Officers, and shall have Power to remove and displace Colonels, Captains, and other Officers, from Time to Time, as they, or any Nine of them, as aforesaid, shall see cause, and think fit; and that the said Committee, or any Nine or more of them, as aforesaid, shall have the same Powers and Authorities, to all Intents and Purposes, and in the same Manner and Form, as any Committee for the Militia of the City of London had the Twentieth Day of July, Anno Dom. 1647. by any Order, or Ordinances of Parliament; and that all and every Person and Persons, who have heretofore acted or done, or hereafter shall act or do, any Act or Thing whatsoever, by Virtue of this or any former Ordinance, or Ordinances of Parliament, concerning the said Militia, shall be saved harmless, and indemnified, for, and concerning the same by Authority of Parliament. And it is hereby further ordained, that no Citizen of the City of London, nor any of the Forces of the said City, or Liberties thereof, shall be drawn forth, or compelled to go out of the said City, or Liberties thereof, for Military Service, without his, or their free Consent. And it is lastly ordained and declared, by Authority aforesaid, that the Ordinance of Parliament of the fourth Day of May, 1647. for the Militia of London, shall from henceforth cease, and be determined to all Intents and Purposes whatsoever. And this present Ordinance is to continue, during the Pleasure of both Houses of Parliament.

Saturday, July 24. The House this Day received a Message from the Lords, with an Ordinance for enjoyning the Payment of Tyths, for Twelve Months, which admitted a long Debate in the House of Commons; at last assented unto, and ordered to be printed.

Paul Best his Pamphlet.

A printed Pamphlet of Mr. Paul Best, was complained of to the House, and much debate had upon it, and it was ordered to be burned on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday next, at Westminster, the Exchange, and other publick Places in the City.

The Printers and Publishers thereof, are referr'd to a Committee to be punished.

The Ordinance concerning Stationers and Printing, is ordered to be reported to the House on Thursday next.

The English-Irish in England, are ordered to have a Moiety of the Collections the next Fast-Day.

Declaration against the Petition and Engagement.

The Lords returned this Answer to the House of Commons, that their Lordships had agreed to the Declaration against the Petition and Engagement, late on Foot in the City, and was ordered to be printed and published by beat of Drum, and found of Trumpet, by the Sheriffs of the City.

Private Subscribing of Hands against the Army.

Letters came this Day from the Army, giving to understand that the General had his Head Quarters Yesterday at Alesbury: at which Place (upon notice given to the General and Council of War, of a private Engagement and Subscribing in the City of London, and an Agitation at Skinners-Hall, against the Army, of very bad Consequence, as the Condition of Affairs now stands) A Paper was drawn up by the General and Council of War, and sent to the Commissioners of Parliament and City, concerning their deep Sense of that underhand Design, and that they look upon it as the last and most desperate Engine to put all in Confusion.

Likewise another Paper was sent to the Commissioners of the City, desiring that they would repair up to London, to take care to prevent the working of those, or any such like Underminings, of which the City Commissioners seemed very sensible, and expressed much Affection to the Army, and that Afternoon took their leave, and departed towards London.

Against entertaining Cavaliers in the Army.

The General we understood further, the better to take away Jealousies, and some Aspersions cast upon the Army, hath published a Proclamation against entertaining Cavaliers in the Army; all which Papers are as follow.

Alesbury, July 23, 1647.

Several Papers from his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, and the Army under his Command, delivered to the Commissioners of Parliament and City, at Alesbury, July 23, 1647. occasioned by a late Petition and Engagement of some Citizens, Commanders Officers, and Soldiers of the Trained Bands, and Auxiliaries, &c. Being the last and mod desperate Design against the Kingdom and Army, with a Copy of the Engagement. Also a Proclamation from his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, against the entertaining of Cavaliers in the Army.

The General's Letter to both Houses, about the Petition and Solemn Engagement of Citizens, Commanders, Officers. &c.

My Lords and Gentlemen,
We received this enclosed Paper the last Night, from the Hands of a very well-affected Citizen; It was delivered him by an Officer of the City Militia, who being invited to meet some Citizens at Skinners-Hall upon Wednesday next, with divers others, to Sign the same and offering to dispute against the matter of it, to shew how dangerous and illegal it was, was silenc'd, and told that it was not to be disputed, but to be Signed and Joyn'd in, there being divers Citizens and others at the same Place for that Purpose, which when understood he took this printed Copy away with him.

By the Contents of which, when you read it, you will easily perceive what it tends to, and how desperate and dangerous it is to the hazard of the whole Kingdom; and to frustrate all those Endeavours of the Parliament, the Army, and the Kingdom for an happy Settlement; and likewise to precipitate all into a New and Bloody War: We cannot therefore but acquaint you, that we look on this as a Business set on Foot by the Malice of some desperate minded Men, this being 1 their last Engine for the putting all into Confusion, when they could not accomplish their wicked Ends by other Means. To this have all secret Listings tended, and we with that the needless and superfluous Listing of Auxiliaries, and Connivance of the continuance of Reformadoes about the Cities of London and West-minister, have not had these same aim: And by this, we hope, it will appear, that our Jealousies and Fears of some such desperate Designs to be hatched in, and about the City, (considering the temper of Men there) have not been groundless, nor our desires draw near the City of London with the Army, to disappoint and break all such Plots, and to free the Parliament from the violence of them, have not been without just Cause; and we desire all indifferent Men to judge, whether our withdrawing from the City, in Obedience to the Parliament's Command, was for theirs and the Kingdom's Security, or not: We wonder that divers Men did calumniate that our marching so near the City, and put so bad Representations upon it, as that it tended to force the Parliament, or to plunder the City: Seeing our doing so, was to break that black Design which now begins to shew it self in its Colours. Whereas indeed our Consciences witness with us, that our Aims were clear and honest tending to restore the Parliament unto its just Liberty, which was much abated in the Eyes of all the Kingdom; and no doubt by the Authors and Contrivers of this new Covenant and Engagement some whereof have been so far from assisting to put the Reformadoes, and other dangerous Persons out of the Lines, that now they are called to joyn in this Conspiracy: We intreat you to give the Parliament a full Representation of these things, which that yon may do, we have sent you the Papers, together with such Informations, as may give them an Opportunity to discover the bottom of this Business: We were marching from London (when we received this Information) in Obedience to the Parliament, and to give the City more Content, and to stop the Mouths of Slanderers: But if such Designs, so destructive to the Parliament, and the Work in Hand, be suffered to go on, or that the Parliament be interrupted in the Freedom of their Debates and Proceedings, as we hear within these few Days they were, by those that are invited to partake in this Confederacy: We beg it of the Parliament, as they tender their own Safety, the Peace of the Kingdom, and preventing of a second War; as they would not have the Kingdom lose the Fruit and Benefit of at the Blood and Treasure that has been spilt in this Cause that they would not suffer their Freedom and Liberty to be endangered by such Designs as these, they having an Army, which, by the Blessing of God, in spight of all that theirs and the Kingdom's Enemies can do, will stand and fall with them, and be found Faithful and Obedient to them in all Things, and as ready to relieve Ireland, when the Peace, and Rights of this Kingdom are settled. We write not this, to desire the Parliament to invite us to march up to them; we care not how great a Distance we are from London, if it be the Parliament's Pleasure, and consists with their Security, and the breaking off' those Combinations, which are hatcht in the 'Bowels of the City. We are hastning our Proposals, which are for the general Settlement, and which (we are confident) will satisfie all that love Truth and Peace; but we fee plainly, we need no more to intend Security, than have cause to expect to bring things to a happy Issue by Treaty, while such Designs are on Foot: We pray you therefore, that the Parliament would speedily, and throughly inquire into, and break these Designs; wherein, as in all things else, we shall be ready to serve them, as they shall judge it needful, and when they shall command us.

Signed, By the Appointment of his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, and his Council of War.

John Rushworth, Secr.

Alesbury, July 23, 1647.

Alesbury, July 23, 1647.

By a printed Paper come to our Hands (a Copy whereof you receive herewith) you will still find, and clearly and evidently perceive, that some evil Spirits, within the City of London, maliciously disaffected to the Peace of this Kingdom, do secretly and maliciously endeavour to bring about that Mischief upon the Kingdom, which we have so much feared, and by all our several Addresses to you, fought to prevent which indeed are of that dangerous consequence, as we can expect no other issue from, than the unavoidable engaging the Kingdom in a second War, if not timely and effectually prevented by your Wisdom and Diligence: We must further observe unto you, that whatsoever Design is intended in the aforesaid Paper, is contrary to the Authority of Parliament, and in direct Opposition to the Proceedings of the Army (which the two Houses have owned as theirs, and approved of their Fidelity, by committing the Forces of the Kingdom of England, Dominion of Wales, and Islands of Guernsey and Jersey, under the General's Care and Command) and therefore cannot be effected, but by force of Arms against the Parliament, and their Armies, which in probability may involve the whole Kingdom in Blood, but must necessarily begin within your Bowels, and draw the Seat and State of War upon you, and your City.

Also we desire you would confider, whether we have not just Cause to suspect: that an evil Party lurks within the City, ready to distemper it, and the whole Kingdom, upon every Occasion; and whether it be probable such Persons desire a happy Close between the King and the Parliament (at least such as will be for the Kingdom's Good) when they take upon them the boldness, to make new Offers to His Majesty with solemn Engagements to make good the fame, during the time that the Parliament had given us leave to make Tender of, and treat with their Commissioners, about those things which tend to a general Settlement: And therefore we cannot but desire, that you would take a speedy Course timely to suppress this great Evil, and to prevent all of this Nature for the future, by making some of those Examples who been active to carry on this Business: We have not had time to enquire into Particulars, but shall give you only one Instance of a Meeting at Skinners-Hall concerning this Business, where some Persons have been very active, (the Names of some of whom we have given to your Commissioners) and also the Names of other Citizens, who will testifie their Carriage there.

Lastly, we cannot but desire you to concur with us in our Desires to the Parliament; to put the Militia into the Hands of those that had it before, without which we can have no assurance, that the City will be free from Designs of this Nature, nor can we expect to see a happy Close.

Signed, By the Appointment of his Excellency Sir Tho. Fairfax and his Council of War.

John Rushworth, Secr.

Alesbury, July 23, 1647.

The printed Paper, or the Copy which the General enclosed in his, to the Lords and Commons, is as follows, viz.

To the Right Honourable the Lord Mayor, the Right Worshipful the Aldermen, and Commons of the City of London, in the Common or Guildhall of the City of London, Assembled.

The Humble Petition of the Citizens, Commanders, Officers, and Soldiers, of the Trained Bands, and Auxiliaries, the Young Men, and Apprentices, of the Cities of London and Westminster, Sea-Commanders, Seamen, and Watermen, together with divers of the Commanders, Officers, and Soldiers, within the Line of Communication, and Parishes mentioned in the Weekly-Bill of Mortality.

Sheweth,
That your Petitioners (taking into serious Consideration, how Religion, His Majesty's Honour and Safety, the Privileges of Parliament, and Liberties of the Subjects, are at present greatly endangered, and like to be destroyed, and also sadly weighing with our selves, what means might likely prove the most effectual, to procure a firm and lasting Peace, without a further Effusion of Christian English Blood, have therefore entered into a solemn Engagement, which is hereunto annexed, and do humbly and earnestly desire, that this whole City may joyn together, by all lawful and possible means, as one Man, in hearty Endeavours, for His Majesty's present coming up to his two Houses of Parliament, with Honour, Safety and Freedom, (and that without the nearer approach of the Army) there to confirm such things, as he hath granted in' his Message of the 12th of May last, in Answer to the Proportions of both Kingdoms; and that by a Personal Treaty with his two Houses of Parliament, and the Commissioners of the Kingdom of Scotland, such things as yet are in difference, may be speedily settled, and a firm and lasting Peace established: All which we desire may be presented to both Houses of Parliament, from this. Honourable Assembly.

And we shall pray, &c.

The solemn Engagement mentioned in the aforesaid Petition follows at large, viz.

A Solemn Engagement of the Citizens, Commanders, Officers and Soldiers of the Trainbands and Auxiliaries, the Young Men and Apprentices of the Cities of London and Westminster, Sea-Commanders, Seamen and Watermen; together faith divers others, the Commanders, Officers, and Soldiers within the Lines of Communication, and Parishes mentioned in the Weekly 'Bill of Mortality.

Whereas, We have entered into a solemn League and Covenant, for. Reformation and Defence of Religion, the Honour and Happiness of the Kingdom, and the Peace and Safety of the three Kingdoms of England, Scotland, and Ireland; all which we do eminently perceive not only to be endangered, and like to be destroyed: We do therefore in pursuance of our said Covenant Oath of Allegiance, Oath of every Freeman of the Cities of London, and Westminster, and Protestation, solemnly engage our selves, and vow unto Almighty God, that we will', to the utmost of our Power, cordially endeavour, that His Majesty may speedily come co his two Houses of Parliament, with Honour, Safety, and Freedom (and that without the nearer approach of the Army) there to confirm such things, as he hath granted in his Message of the 12th of May last, in Answer to the Propositions of both Kingdoms, and that by a Personal Treaty with his two Houses of Parliament, and the Commissioners of the Kingdom of Scotland, such things, as are yet in Difference, may be speedily settled, and a firm and lasting Peace established; for the effecting hereof, we do protest, and re-oblige our selves, as in the presence of God, the searcher of all Hearts, with our Lives and Fortunes to endeavour what in us lies, to preserve, and defend His Majesty's Royal Person and Authority, the Privileges of Parliament§ and Liberty of the Subject, in their full and constant Freedom, the Cities of London and Westminster, Lines of Communication, and Parishes mention'd in the Weekly-Bill of Mortality: and all others that shall adhere with us to the said Covenant, and Oath of Allegiance, Oath of every Freeman of London and Westminster, and Protestation: Nor shall we by any means admit, suffer, or endure any Neutrality in this Common Cause of God, the King, and Kingdom, as we do expect the Blessing of Almighty God, whose Help we crave and wholly devolve our selves upon, in this our Undertaking.

Upon this an Order from the General went to the Chief Officers of his Army, for expunging the Names of all Cavaliers out of their Muster-Rolls, which take as follows, (viz.)

The Order of the General for expunging Cavaliers out o the Muster Rolls.

I do hereby require the Chief Officer present, with every Troop and Company, to make strict enquiry, what Cavaliers have been lifted and entertained in their Troops and Companies, since the Muster preceding the last Muster, and that all such Chief Officers shall presently, upon such enquiry as before, put forth of their Troops, or Companies, such Cavaliers as they shall find in their Troops, or Companies, from such Musters as before; and before they receive any Pay upon this last Muster, they shall expunge the Names of all such Cavaliers out of the Muster Rolls as they shall have put out of their Troops or Companies. And if it shall hereafter appear that any Chief Officer present, with their Troop or Company shall neglect to put forth, or cashire such Cavaliers in manner as before, or receive any for the time to come, Upon Proof thereof made, he shall be liable to a Council of War, and be accordingly proceeded against.

Thomas Fairfax.

Given under my Hand the 21st of July, 1647.

The Army and the King removes.

The General this Day removed his Head-Quarters, from Alesbury, to Bedford The King removed on Thursday from Causam to the Earl of Devonshire's House at Latimer, and from thence to the Earl of Bedford's House near Woburn in Hertfordshire.

The King's Children.

The Commons concurr'd with the Lards, in their Votes for removing the King's Children to Sion-House.

A Petition was this Day presented to the House from the Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and Common-Council of the City of London in these Words, which take at large.

The humble Petition of the Lord-Mayor, Aldermen, and Commons of the City of London in Common-Council assembled:

To the Right Honourable the Lords and Commons assembled in High Court of Parliament. Whereunto is annexed two Petitions; the one entituled, The humble Petition of divers well-affected Citizens of the City of London; the other entituled, The humble Petition of divers Young Men, Citizens, and Apprentices of this honourable City. They are as followeth, (viz.)

To the Honourable the House of Commons assembled in High Court of Parliament:

The humble Petition of the Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and Commons of the City of London in Common-Council assembled,

A Petition of the Lord Mayor, &c. to both Houses, for reestablishing the Militia, which was established by an Ordinance of the 4th of May last.

Humbly sheweth,
That the Petitioners have, by Ordinance of Parliament, dated the 23d. present, taken notice of the Pleasure of both Houses, for constituting a new Committee for the Militia of the City of London, and the Liberties thereof, and of all the other places within the Lines of Communication, and the Weekly Bills of Mortality , and for determining of a former Ordinance for the Militia of this City, &c. dated the 4th of May last; which being taken into serious consideration, the Petitioners could not but call to mind how far both Houses of Parliament had formerly honoured the City, when they first established the Committee for the Militia, and since enlarged or altered the same, to take the sense of this Court before they finally resolved thereupon; which Confidence the Petitioners are not conscious to themselves to have forfeited. And next, being sensible by two Petitions presented to this Court (the Copies whereof are annexed) the one entituled, The humble Petition of divers well-affected Citizens of the City of London; and the other entituled, The humble Petition of divers Young Men, Citizens, and other Apprentices of this City: what a general Distemper this sudden Change hath already made, and may further raise in this City; besides that hereby the City is for the present put out of all regular posture of Defence.

The Petitioners could not but return unto this honourable House, and humbly and earnestly pray, That the Militia which was established by Ordinance of the 4th of May last as aforesaid, and then ordered to continue for one whole Year, may be re-established; that so the present Fears and Distempers in the City may be dispersed and appeased: Whereunto, as the Petitioners humbly conceive this to be the only present safe means, next under the mighty Hand of God, so they will not doubt, but that the said Militia, as hitherto they have done, will in all things perform their Duties according to their Trust.

And the Petitioners shall pray, &c.

To the Right Honourable the Lord Mayor, the Right Worshipful the Aldermen, and Commons of the City of London in Common-Council assembled:

The humble Petition of divers well-affected Citizens of the City of London,

The Petition of divers well-affected Citizens, &c. to the Lord Mayor, &c. for continuing the Militia.

Sheweth,
That whereas we have lifted up our Hands to the High God, for the Reformation and Defence of Religion, His Majesty's just Power and Authority, the Liberties of the Subjects, and the Privileges of Parliaments; and seriously considering the late Transactions to violate all these, and to weaken the Zeal and Forwardness of this City, and this Honourable Court, in the maintenance of the same, by endeavouring to remove the present Militia, confirmed by Authority of a Free, Parliament for a Year, and made choice of by this Honourable Court.

In this Straight and Exigency we are bold in all Humility, yet with all Earnestness, to pray, That this Honourable Court would sadly weigh the present Dangers; and, as in former times it hath been your Honour to be instrumental for the preservation of this miserable and dying Kingdom, by the interposition of your Courage, and Power, and Wisdom, in a time of need so you would not suffer it to be buried in perpetual Oblivion and Reproach, by yielding up that Militia, which, by the good Providence of God, and the Authority of a Free Parliament, hath been invested in your Hands, the only visible means, under God, we have now left for the Security of our Religion, Lives, and Liberties.

A Petition of divers Young Men, Citizens of London, &c. to the L. Mayor, &C. that none be put in Places of Trust but such as stand well-affected to the Covenant, &c And to have the Militia continued.

To the Right Honourable the Lord Mayor, the Right Worshipful the Aldermen, and the Worshipful the Commons in Common-Council assembled.

The humble Petition of divers Young Men, Citizens, and others Apprentices of this Honourable City.

Humbly Sheweth,
That your Petitioners being sadly affected with the Distractions of these Times, wherein divers discontented Persons, for the advancement of their own Interests, labour to sow new Seeds of Division and Discord among us, whereby Incendiaries are encouraged, the Well-affected discountenanced, the Privileges of Parliament violated, the publick Worship of God slighted, the Liberties and Properties of the faithful Subjects of this Kingdom, and especially of this City, much endangered, and the long-desired-for end of these Troubles (by His Majesty's gracious compliance with, and his safe and honourable return to his Parliament, (which we hoped was almost obtained) now retarded, and for the present altogether frustrated) have presented their humble Petition to both Houses of Parliament, a Copy whereof is hereunto annexed, the which they have thought it their duty likewise to tender unto this honourable Court; being confident, that as their desires in these their humble Addresses arise from no other ends whatsoever but the Glory of God, and the Discharge of their Consciences, in pursuance of that Solemn League and Covenant which lies upon them, To endeavour to their utmost, their places and callings, to use all lawful Ways and Means for the conservation and maintenance of the just Rights and Privileges of Parliament (lately so much violated) the Preservation and Defence of His Majesty's Royal Person and Authority together with the true Religion and Liberties of this Kingdom, and for the discovery and bringing to condign Punishment, all evil Instruments whatsoever, which labour, by fomenting groundless Fears and Jealousies}to divide and make parties amongst the People hereby there by to retard the Settlement of Church and State: So we doubt not but this honourable Court (who have been instrumental to invite us, both by Example and Perswasion (according to several Ordinances and Declarations of Parliament) to engage ourselves to the prosecution of the said Ends, wherein you have already done very much, to your everlasting Praise and Commendation) will still with all Reality, Constancy, and Undaunted Magnanimity, pursue the same, and likewise encourage those that shall, according to their Duty, labour to promote the same ends. Wherefore we humbly pray,

That this honourable Court would be pleased to use their utmost endeavours by their Addresses to the Parliament, and otherwise, as they in their Wisdoms shall think fit, for the furthering of your Petitioners desire contained in the above-mentioned Petition.

We cannot likewise but with all thankfulness take notice of what this honourable City has done for the putting in execution of several Ordinance of Parliament, That none be put into any place of Trust, either in Church or Common-wealth, but such as have taken and now stand well affected to the Covenant, to which we are confident that you will still adhere.

And whereas there have been, and still are, several factious Persons who still themselves The Well-affected of this City, (though unworthy of that Name) who labour to traduce the Actions thereof, thereby to bring an Odium upon it and to lay it open to their Malice; a fresh Instance whereof we have in a Petition presented to the Parliament pretended to be the Petition of the Young Men and Apprentices of the City, as likewise by a Petition pretended to be presented to Sir Thomas Fairfax the which we are ready to produce, and refer the consideration of them to this Honourable Court: And further pray, That as both the Militia of the City hath been legally chosen by this Honourable Court, according to Ordinance of Parliament and the Common Council legally chosen by the several Wards (according to the ancient Custom of this City) you would be pleased to retain the same Power, both Civil and Military, in your own Hands. And that you would be pleased (for the prevention of many eminent Dangers, to which this City may be liable, by reason of these Distractions, to take such effectual and speedy Course, for the Safeguard and Defence thereof, that the fear either of any Mutiny within, or any unwarrantable Power from abroad may in some Measure be taken away, whereby trade (the main Support of I this City, now mightily impaired) may be again revived, and the Franchises and Liberties of this Honourable City (to which we are the apparent Heirs) maintained and defended.

And as your Petitioners are in Duty bound, both by that relation which they stand in to the Honourable City, as by that solemn Engagement whereinto they have entred, so they will be always ready to hazard their Lives for the Defence thereof, and not suffer themselves directly or indirectly, by any Terrour, or Perswasion, to be drawn from their Duty herein.

July 26.

The Humble Desires of the Citizens, Young Men, and Apprentices of the City of London; presented to both the Honourable Houses of Parliament, July 26, 1647. Together with the Ordinances of Parliament.

1. It is our humble Desire, in regard Religion, our Lives, Liberties, and Estates, are so much endangered, and the Peace and Safety of this City and Kingdom, that the pretended Ordinance for the Change of the Militia of the City of London may be presently repealed before the rising of the Houses; and that former Ordinance, that was conferred for a Year by a free Parliament, upon the Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and Common council, and by them legally chosen, may be Established: In which regard we do conceive, that no Justice, though it run in never so free a Channel, can lawfully disposses them of it, unless it shall appear to be abused, contrary to the Trust reposed in them.

2. It is likewise desired that the City of London may immediately be vindicated against a late pretended Declaration of both Houses, which declares all those Traitors, and so to forfeit Life and Estate, who shall after Publication thereof, act thereupon to get Subscriptions, and that the said Declaration be now presently reversed and cancell'd.

3. That both Houses of Parliament do presently make an Order upon some special Penalty, for the calling in of all their Members of either Houses to discharge the Trust the Kingdom has reposed in them, especially Eleven late accused Members, against whom there has been nothing proved of their Accusation to this Day. That yet again we may come to be so happy, as to enjoy the healing Influence of a full and free Parliament in these distracted Times.

These Particulars we cannot but insist upon, since the Distractions amongst us begin to grow so high, and the Honour and Privileges of Parliament, the Peace and Safety of the City and Kingdom, are so greatly violated.

Much Time was spent in this Business, and at last the Lords and Commons concurred in two Ordinances, as followeth.

Ordinance that the Declaration of the 26. July (that all shall be Traitors, &c. who after Publication thereof, get Subscriptions) be Null, and made void.

Die Lunæ 26, Julii, 1647.

Be it Ordained, by the Lords and Commons in Parliament assembled, That the Declaration of the 24th of this instant July, which declares all those Traitors who shall after Publication thereof act thereupon to get Subscriptions, be null and void, any Thing in the sid Declaration to the contrary notwithstanding.

John Brown, Cler. Parllamentorum.
Hen. Elsingy, Cler. Parl. Dom. Com.

Die Lunæ 26, Julii, 1647.

Ordinance to revoke the settling the City Militia this 23. of July.

Be it Ordered and Ordained, by the Lords and Commons in Parliament assembled, That the Ordinance of the 23d Instant July, for the Settling the Militia of the City of London, be, and shall be, hereby revoked, and made void, to all Insents and Purposes; and that the said Ordinance of the 4th of May, 1647. for the said Militia of London, be in full Force and Vertue, any Thing in the said Ordinance of the 23d Instant, to the contrary notwithstanding.

John Brom, Cler. Parliament.
Hen. Elsing, Cler. Parl. D. Com.

The Votes in the House of Commons, made July 26, 1647. for the King's Majesty's coming to London; with the several Votes of both Houses, for Nulling the Declaration against the City Petitioners, for Re-establishing the New Militia of London, notwithstanding the late Ordinance, with a Copy of the said Declaration.

A Declaration ofthe Lords and Commons assembled in Parliament.

Die Sabbati 24, Julii, 1647.

A Declaration of the Lords and Commons against aprinted Paper, filled a Petition to the Lord Mayor, &c. and the Solemn Engagement.

The Lords and Commons having seen a printed Paper, Entituled, A Petition to the Right Honourable the Lord-Mayor, the Right Warshipful the Aldermen, and Commons of the City of London, in the Common or Guild. Hall of the City of London, assembled, under the Name of divers Citizens, Commanders, Officers, and Soldiers ofthe Trained-Bands, Auxiliaries, and others, Young Men and Apprentices, Sea-Commanders, Seamen, and Watermen. Together with a dangerous Engagement of the same Persons, by Oath and Vow, concerning the King's present coming to the Parliament, upon Terms far different from those which both Houses, after mature Deliberation, have declared to be necessary for the Good and Safety of this Kingdom, casting Reslections upon the Proceedings both of the Parliament and Army, and tending to the embroiling the Kingdom in a New War: And the said Lords and Commons, taking notice of great Endeavoursused by divers Ill-affected Persons, to procure Subscriptions thereunto, whereby Well-meaning People may be milled: Do therefore declare that whosoever after Publication or Notice thereof, shall proceed in or promote or set his Name to, or give consent that his Name be set unto, or any way joyn in the said Engagement, shall be deemed and adjudged Guilty of High treason, and shall forseit Life and Estate, as in Cases of High-Treason accustomed.

Hen. Elsing, Cler. Parl. Pom. Com.

Ordered that this Declaration be published forthwith, by Order ofthe Lord-Mayor, Sheriffs, and Committee of the Militia, by beat of Drum, and found of Trumpet, in the City of London, and within the Lines of Communication.

Die Lunæ, 26, Julii 1647.

Be it Ordained, by Lords and Commons, in Parliament assembled, That the Declaration of the 24th of this Instant July, which declares all those Traitors, and so to forfeit Life and Estate, who shall after Publication thereof, act thereupon to get Subscriptions, be null and void, any Thing in the said Declaration to the contrary notwithstanding.

John Brown, Cler. Parl.

Hen. Elsing, Cler. Parl. Dom. Com.

Die Lunæ, 26, Julii, 1647.

The House of Commons having Adjourned until the Morrow, and Mr. Speaker risen our of his Chair, and the Members going out, divers Petitioners moved them to sit again, and the Speaker returning to his Chair, and the Members fitting in their Places, the Petitioners desire them, to Vote that the King's Majesty should come to London; whereupon it was Resolved upon the Question,

That His Majesty should come to London.

July, 26, 1647.

Resolved by the Commons in Payment assembled, that they Adjourn their house until Friday next.

July, 26, 1647.

Resolved by the Lords in Parliament, that they do Adjourn their House until Friday next.

John Brown, Cler. Parl.

Tuesday, July, 27. Early, this Morning the House of Commons met again, and Adjourned till Friday eight of the Clock, so did the Lords likewise.

Middleton routeth the Gourdons.

Letters out of Scotland certified, that Major General Middleton, hath had a late Encounter with some of the Gourdons in the West of Scotland, Killed forty and look thirty Prisoners.

A Fastin Scotland.

The General Assembly of the Kirk of Scotland, Ordered a Publick Fast to be kept throughout that Kingdom, the last Lord's Day, and set forth certain Reasons for the same; some whereof, having relation to this Kingdom I shall here insert them.

The Motives thereunto.

1. That notwithstanding the Solemn Engagement in the Covenant, our Obligations of great and singular Mercies, and our many Warnings by Judgments of all sorts, yet not only do we come far short of that Sobriety, Righteousness, and Holiness, that becometh the Gospel of Jesus Christ; but Ungodliness, and Worldly Lusts, abound every where throughout the Land, unto the Grieving of the Lord's Spirit, and Provoking the Eyes of his Glory, and to make him increase his Plagues upon us, and to punish us seven Times more, because we continue to walk contrary unto him.

2. That the Lord's Hand is still stretched out against us, to the Judgment of the Pestilence, which spreads not only in the several Places in the Country, but continueth, and increaseth in many of the most eminent Cities in the Kingdom.

3. The great Danger that threatens Religion, and the Works of Reformation in these Kingdoms, from the Number, Policy, and Power of the Sectaries in England, which are like, not only to interrupt the Progress of Uniformity, and the Establishing of the Ordinances of God in their Beauty and Perfection, but to overturn the Foundation already laid, and all that had been built thereupon, with the Expence of so much Blood and Pains.

1. And therefore we are earnestly to pray the Lord, that the solemn League and Covenant may be kept, and inviolaby, notwithstanding all the Purposes and Endeavours of open Enemies, and secret Underminers to the contrary.

2. We are to intreat the Lord in the behalf of the King's Majesty, that he may be reconcil'd to God, and that he may be now furnished with Wisdom and Counsel from above, that he be not involved in new Snared, to the Endangering of himself, and these Kingdoms; but that his Heart may incline to such Resolutions, as will contribute for Settling of Religion and Righteousness.

3. We are also to intreat the Lord, in the behalf of the Parliament of England, of the Synod of Divines, and of all such in the Land, as do unfeignedly mind the Work of God, that they may not be discouraged, nor swerve in the Day of Temptation, but that each of them in their Stations, and according to their Places and Calling , may be furnished with Light and Strength from Heaven, for doing of their Duty with Faithfulness and Zeal.

4. We are to supplicate for Direction to our Committee of Estates, that they may discern the Times, and know what is fitting to be done for. securing our selves, and encouraging our Brethren.

5. We are to pray for a Spirit of Light, and of Love unto our Assembly, that they may be instrumental in preserving Truth, and advancing Holiness amongst out selves, and for carrying on the Work of God amongst our Neighbours.

Finally, That the Lord would pour out upon all sorts of Persons in these Kingdoms, a Spirit of grace and Supplication, that it may repent us of all our Iniquities, that we may be reconciled unto the Lord, that so all Tokens of his Wrath may be removed from amongst us, and he may bless us with the sweet Fruits of Truth and Peace.

Wednesday, July 28. Master Whitlock, and Mr. Jagger preached before the Commons in Margarets Westmister.

The City keeps a Fast.; Receiveth a Letter of Kindness from the General.; Apprentiecs appear.

The Common Council sat in Guild-hall in the Morning, and about 10 of the Clock arose and kept a Humiliation in Bassingshaw Church, having formerly desired Mr. Asb, Mr. Calamy, and Mr. Anthony Burges to preach; the Sermons were ended about five at Night; the Common Council met again, and read a Letter from his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, setting forth his good Affection and tender Care of the Good of the City, and shewing his great Dislike of the Petition, and the Means used to promote the same. At the same Time many Young Men, and others attended the Common Council to express their Readiness, for to stand up for the, just Privileges of the City, and defend it against all Opposers.

The City send six commissioners to the General, not to advance.

A Letter was then drawn up, and a Messenger dispatch'd to his Excellency, and six Commissioners appointed to go after the next Morning. In the Letter the Lord-Mayor, Aldermen, and Common Council, declare their Inclinableness to Peace treating his Excellency that the Army might not advance this Way, nor intermeddle with the Rights and Privileges of the City, conceiving that Strengthning of the City for the Safety, and Preservation thereof, was no just Cause to provoke the Soldier: And as for the Petition the Parliament had already declared then Sense thereof, and therefore it was needless for them to do it, and the rather, for that it had never been formally presented to them.

To kill and slay, who shall disturb the Parliament.

Thursday, July, 29. The Committee of the Militia of the City of London, and Lines of Communication, this Day Ordered, that no Person or Persons whatsoever, shall presume to make any Disturbance to the Parliament: And it was further Ordered, that if any Person or Persons should presume to make such Disturbance to the Parliament, the Commander in Chief of the Guard, which shall be there present, shall prosecute their Commissions to Kill and Slay, &c.

Intelligence that the Army advances.; The Drum beats for Trained-Bands and others to go to the Works.

There coming Intelligence that the Army began to advance, Orders were given for the Trained-Bands to go to the Works, and for the better raising of Auxiliaries to help and defend the City. A Proclamation was made by beat of Drum throughout the same, Requiring all, and every the Inhabitants, that are able to bear Arms and are not listed of the Trained-Bands, to appear the next Morning at several Places, and such as had Arms to bring them with them, and such as had none should receive them there.

The Houses met but no Speakers came.; The Commons chose a new Speaker.

Friday, July 30th. This Day according to Order of Adjournment, the Members of the House of Commons met in the House, and likewise the Lords, but the Speakers of neither House appeared; and after much Time spent in Expectation, and no Speaker coming, at length the Members of the House of Commons (then present) proceeded to the Election of a new Speaker, and Voted Mr. Pelham, a Counsellor of Lincolns Inn (and a Member of that House) to be Speaker (pro tempore.) The Lords also made Choice of the Lord Gray to be Speaker of their House (pro tempore) in the Place of the Earl of Manchester.

And a new Serjeant.

Mr. Bickhead the Serjeant at Arms being absent with the Mace, when the Commons made Choice of their Speaker, they chose Mastet Norfolk to be Serjeant at Arms, and had the City Mace for the present Use; shortly after came Mr. Bickhead with his Mace, and tendered his Service, but another being put in the Place, he was excluded.

The Commons Votes as followeth.

After this the House proceeded to debate on the present great Affairs, touching the City and Kingdom, and Voted,

The King to come to London.

First, That the King come to London.

To raise Forces.

2. That the Militia of the City shall have full Power to raise such Forces as they shall think fit, for the Defence thereof.

To make a Commander in chief.

3. That they may make Choice of a Commander in Chief, to be approved of by the House, and such Commander to present other Officers, to be approved of by the Militia.

Major General Massey.; Reformadoes to be reduced into Regiments.

After this the Sheriffs and Common Council (who attended the House all this Morning) returned into the City of London, and at a Common Council this Afternoon, taking into Consideration the great Service done by Major General Massey, and particularly that at Gloucester, they made Choice of him to command in Chief: And it was ordered by the Militia, that all Reformadoes and other Officers, &c. should the next Day at two of the Clock in the Afternoon, appear to be listed in St. James's Fields, and that the Forces already lifted for defence of the City be put into a Regimental Way.

This Day came a Letter from his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, to the Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and Common Council of the City of London; a Copy whereof I shall here give you.

The General's Letter to the City, of his advance towards London, with his Demands.

My Lords and Gentlemen,
You may please to remember, the forward compliance of this, Army with your Desires to remove, to this distance, and that upon the Assurance you gave them of your concurrence with their declared Desires, for the Settling of the Liberty and Peace of this Kingdom, (against which you never yet offer'd us one Exception, or any ground of Dissent) as also of your great Tenderness and Resolution to secure the Parliament, and their Privileges, from my Violence or Attempt; the chief Reason given us of your late Listing of new Forces, and wherein we did most acquiess.

That upon this Confidence we had disposed of the Army into several parts of the Kingdom, for the ease of the whole, some of them to above a hundred Miles distance we had given up our selves to the effecting such Proposals as might tend to the comfortable Settlement of this poor Kingdom, and we were in a hopeful Way for speedy Relief for Ireland.

We cannot then but be deeply sensible of the unparalleled Violation acted upon the Parliament upon Monday last, by a Multitude from your City, because therein the guard sent from the City, did not only neglect their Duty for the Security of the Parliament from such Violence, and the whole City to yield any Relief to the Houses in that extremity, but I am assured from Eye and Ear Witnesses that divers of the Common Council gave great encouragement to it, which doth not only gain say your former Professions, but does Violence to those many Obligation that, by your Charter, Protection, and sundry other ways laid upon you to protect the Parliament.—For my part, I cannot but look on you (who are in Authority) as acceptable to the Kingdom for your present Interruptions of that hopeful way of Peace and Settlement things were in for this Nation, and for relieving Ireland, occasioned by a late destructive Engagement, especially by the latter Prodigious land Horrid Force done upon the Parliament, tending to dissolve all Government; top on which Score, we, and the whole Kingdom, shall have Cause, to put every thing of the like nature, that may happen to the Parliament, to any who are friends to them and this Army, except by your Wisdom, Care, and Industry the chief Actors in the Premises may be detected, secured, and given up to the procuring of Justice for the same, and the best Endeavours used to prevent the like for the future. And so I rest,

Your most assured Friend, to serve you,
Thomas Fairfax.

Bedford, 29 July, 1647.

Kings Children.

Saturday, July 31. This Day, after the House was fate, a Message came from the Lords, for the Concurrence of the Commons to their Votes, for removing the Kings Children into the City of London, for their better Security; their going to Sion being retarded by reason of the present Commotions.

A great appearance of Reformadoes, &c. to be listed.

According to the Order Yesterday of the Militia, for Listing Reformadoes, and Officers, there was a great appearance in St. James Feilds. Order was given for staying of Horses from going out of the City, many Horses were listed.

By M. G. Massey, Sir W. Waller, and Cool. poyntz. All Shops to be shut up.

This Day most of the Eleven Members sate in the House, and in the Afternoon General Majesty, Sir William Waller, and Colonel General Poyntz, were at Listing the Reformadoes.

Command was given that all Shops should be shut up.

Head Quarters at Wickham.; Block-Houses at Graves-end secured by the Army.

From the Army we are advised that their Quarters, after a hard March, was last Night at Wickham , and some of his Excellencies entred, Windsor, the next News is like to beat a Rendezvous about Hounsloe, and from thence it's thought they will draw nearer to London.

This Evening News came that one of the Block-Houses near Gravesend , was secured by a Party of the Army.

A Declaration of the Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and Commons of the City of London in Common-Council assembled.

A Declaration of the L. Mayer, &c.

How, and by what Authority, and under what pretences, His Majesty was surprized at Holmby, where he was placed by Consent of both Kingdoms; and how thence removed, and at last brought into the Army, under whole Power his Royal Person hath ever fince been kept, and carried to and fro, notwithftanding that his Surprizal was disowned by the General for himself and all the Officers about him, and for the Body of the Army, and that since both Houses of Parliament had required his Royal Person to be brought to Richmond, and there left in the Hands of the Commissioners of Parliament who attended him at Holmby: Contrary to all which, the Army yet desire, That no place might be proposed for His Majesty's Residence nearer London than where they would allow the Quarters of the Army to be. All these things we doubt not but by this time are so evidently known and apparent to the whole Kingdom, that we should not need to insist upon any particular discovery thereof: And we believe that the right-understanding and well affected People of this Kingdom, who remember and still adhere unto the Covenant which they have made with God, have all along observ'd in what manner the Army, in the posture whereinto they have put themselves, have ever since proceeded with the Parliament and City, and sought to improve their Interests throughout the whole Kingdom. We for our parts shall not presume to deliver any thing of our Sense upon that which hath been altered, acted, or contented unto by both Houses, at the instance, interposition, or importunity of the Army; but only desire hereby to give a true Account unto the Kingdom upon what Grounds and Reasons we have been led to concur with the Army in many of their late desires to the Parliament (which happily may have been looked upon with some admiration) and what our just Ends and Aims were in sending down and continuing a Committee of Aldermen and Citizens in the Army all this time.

The City-Remonstranec and Petition of the 26th of May, 1646. Our Petition land Representation of the 19th of December, 1646. and our Petition of the 17th of March, 1646. In the two last of which the Disbanding of the Army was (particularly and especially, insisted upon, have, we are confident, satisfied all moderate and unbyass'd Men, that we were desirous upon the first opportunity which God gave us to exprets our great Zeal for the Settlement of Peace in this Kingdom, by establishing of the true Religion, restoring His Majesty to His just Rights and Authority, maintaining the Privilege of Parliament, easing the great Charge of the Kingdom, securing the People in their lawful Liberties and Properties, and relieving our distressed Fellow-Subjects and Protestants in Ireland; And in order hereunto, we have given two such signal Testimonies, in that we were the principal Leaders and Encouragers to the first Advancing of 200000l. towards the Satisfaction of our Brethren of Scotland, when they had agreed to return to their Country, and to this latter sudden raising of the like Sum of 200000l. for the Payment of this Army, and the Affairs of Ireland, when the Parliament had resolved upon the disbanding and disposing of fo many of the Army as the Kingdom had no further use of, as we will hope that all Men have been clearly convinced of our sincere intentions, much as lay in us, and as far as it was fit for us to appear therein, to improve our utmost endeavours to make the way open to a happy composure of all things. And when the Army refused to disband, and had possessed themselves of the Person of the King, thereby justifying that bold seizure of him, which the General at first disclaimed as aforesaid; and that the Army was upon their March, or, as they called it, drawing near to London; and that this City was in a manner summoned by a Letter of the 10th of June last, under the Hands of the General, and other prime Officers of the Army, although the Parliament were at that time sensible enough of the strange carriage of the Army towards them; and notwithstanding the Army's lying so near to the City did very much hinder and impair the Trade thereof, to the great prejudice of the City in particular, and of the Kingdom in general: yet we, to shew how much we were desirous to avoid the occasion of a new War, did make bold often to address ourselves to the Parliament, and joined with the Army in many of their demands to the Honourable Houses, sent down a Committee of Aldermen and Citizens to reside in the Army to mantain all good Correspondence on both sides; and although the Army a long time hovered near the Parliament and City, we still omitted no Endeavours or good Offices on our parts, as far as we could well appear for them, to manifest. how careful we were to uphold a good understanding between the Army and the City. What violation the Privileges of the House of Commons suffer'd when the Eleven accused Members were enforced by the Army to withdraw themselves, after it was declared upon the Question, That by the Laws of the Land no judgment can be given to suspend those Members, or any of them, from fitting in the House, upon the Papers presented from the Army before particulars produced, and proofs made. And in what manner the Parliament have (to satisfie the Army) as it were renounced all foreign Aid, under what pretence soever, even such as are under the same Covenant with them. These things, we ay, being transacted by the Representative Body of the whole Kingdom, and publick every where, it is evident what great Influence (to say no more) the Army hath throughout had upon the Councils of Parliament: And for this City, it hath suffered it self to be so bounded by the Army, in relation to any Preparation for its own Guard and Defence, whil'st yet the Army is recruited, and the Soldiery of the whole Kingdom invited to join with them, that the City hath been very much exposed to hazard and danger thereby. Yet, although this Army be invested with the whole Power of the Land-Forces of this Kingdom under Pay of the Parliament, when there is nothing left that can probably make any considerable Resistance, and that it was expected they mould fall roundly upon those things which concerned the Publick only, as they professed from the beginning, the Army, contrary to that which they declared in their said Letter of the 10th of June last, unto the City, and their Declaration or Representation of the 14th of June That they would not go beyond their desires at that time expressed and for other particulars would acquiesce in the Wisdom and Justice of the Parliament: now demand the Militia of the City of London, which had been established by Ordinance of Parliament of the 4th of May last, to continue for one whole Year in the Hands of such as by their Authority were nominated by the Lord-Mayor, Aldermen, and Commons in Common Council assembled, and desire the same to be put into other Hands; and so far prevail with the Parliament, that they immediately consented thereto, altho' formerly they never made choice of, enlarged, or changed the Militia at London but they still were pleased first to communicate the same unto the Court of Common Council of this City: But we humbly and thankfully acknowledge, That upon our humble Petition the Parliament presently recalled the same, and re-established the Militia appointed by Ordinance of the 4th of May last as aforesaid. And therefore being thus awakened by this unexpected and undeserved interposition of the Army in the Militia of the City, which we must protest to be subject: to no other cognizance but of the King and Parliament; and having experience how strongly the Army have ever insisted upon any thing they once demanded, we cannot but fore see how far our Proceedings in this business may be misrepresented to the Kingdom, and misunderstood by those, who from the great professions of the Army, have, or do expect from them speedy Settlement of the Peace of the Kingdom, and so may be possessed with something, as if we, by contesting for our Militia, did seek to retard the same. And this hath cast us upon this Declaration wherein although we have unwillingly been enforced to touch upon some Proceedings of the Army with the Parliament and this City, which preceded their intermedling with Our Militia, yet we could not omit the same, that we might make it clear to the Kingdom what little reason the Army had, when they had obtained so much from the Parliament, and that the City had so far complied with them, at last to demand the change of that Militia which never moved in any thing without our cognizance, and so could never give the Army any just cause of exception. And we well hope, that all the Kingdom will be fully satisfied hereby, how extremely desirous we have been all along to avoid giving any just cause of Offence or Provocation, and be convinced that we could not in Honour do less than we have done to preserve our Interest in so great a part of our Government. For out parts we call God to witness, we have a brotherly Sense of the many great pressures under which the Country must needs he, by quartering the Army; and when the Army shall be ready, of which they have given the Kingdom so great hopes, to offer any thing to the Parliament, for the Settlement of the Publick, none shall more readily and zealously join with them therein than We, who from the bottom of our Hearts abhor the thoughts of a new War. But if this Vindication of our Right in the Militia of the City shall be thought by the Army to be a just cause for them, either to divert them from, falling speedily upon that which concerns the publick Peace, or to cast them upon extraordinary Courses, let God, the Kingdom, and the whole World, be Judge between Them and Us.

As for that Petition and Engagement which hath been lately set on foot in the Name of divers Citizens, Commanders, Officers and Soldiers of the Trained-Bands and Auxiliaries, the Young Men and Apprentices of the Cities of London and Westminster, Sea Commanders, Seamen, and Watermen, together with divers other Commanders, Officers, and Soldiers within the Line of Communication, and Parishes mentioned in the Weekly Bills of Mortality, directed unto the Lord-Mayor, Aldermen, and Commons, in the Common or Guild-Hall assembled. Upon which the Army also have by their Letter of the 23d of July last, given us their Sense. To this we have no more to say, but that, for as much as we can collect, we find this Petition and Engagement to be occasioned from the Intelligence which came from the Army, that they would demand the alteration of the Militia of this City; at which if our City, and other the Inhabitants, took the Alarm, the Distemper which it begot cannot be charged on the Government of the City: Neither can we see why the Army should take notice thereof, it being only intended to the Common-Hall, but never presented, even as the Petition of their Soldiery was to their General, which being taken notice of by the Parliament, as it was in agitation, was then so deeply resented by the Soldiery, that from thence hath followed the putting of the Army into that posture wherein now it is. Having thus cleared our selves from any design to embroil ourselves or the Kingdom in a new War, we find our selves obliged (by which also we hope the whole World will be the more fully satisfied of our desires for a speedy, firm, and just Peace) to declare unto the whole Kingdom the bottom of our Hearts and Affections, as in relation to His Majesty, whom we have always, and shall ever acknowledge to be our true and only Sovereign, although his Royal Person hath, during these Distractions, been divided from us. Our Remonstrance, Representation, and Petition before-mentioned, and a later Petition to both Houses on the 17th of March last, presently after His Majesty came to Holmby, have, we doubt not, already justified us, That in all our Addresses to the Parliament, upon all occasions which did concern the Publick, we have ever remembred to express our earnest desires for His Majesty's honourable and speedy Return to His Houses of Parliament; and since His Surprisal we have with much longing attended what the Army would propound concerning His Majesty in particular, according to the greater expectation which they have raised in the People, from that which they have hinted in their Declaration or Representation, and other Papers of their Intentions towards His Majesty: But upon what great Affairs, conducing to the ends the Army at first professed, the time hath been hitherto spent, and nothing done, but to get the whole Power of the Kingdom and City into their Hand, is sufficiently apparent.

We therefore do in the presence of Almighty God profess, That there is nothing in the World that we more desire, than that His Majesty may be put and left free, in such an honourable Condition and Capacity, as His Person may appear to be at Liberty, to receive and treat upon such Propositions as shall be presented unto Him from the Parliaments of both His Kingdoms; For our Consciences tell us, that whil'st His Royal Person is environed by an Army, and remains under the Power thereof, we cannot expect that either His Majesty's Princely Heart can give that free assent unto those things which shall be propounded unto Him as is requisite; or if He do, cannot hope with good reason that we and our Posterity shall without alteration enjoy the same; and therefore we are resolved earnestly, yet with Humility, to apply our selves to the Parliament to this purpose, and hope that all good Subjects, who are touched with any due Sense of that Duty and Allegiance which by the Law of God and Man they owe unto their King, will unanimously join with us therein.

We cannot omit also to declare unto the Kingdom, how we have sadly observed, since the Eleven accused Members withdrew themselves, and that the Army hath daily grown upon the Parliament, that a very great and considerable number of other Members of the House of Commons have also retired themselves, to the endangering of the, Kingdom, which never more needed a full Council: And therefore we shall make our speedy Address to the Honourable House of Commons to call in the Members of their House, residing in the Army, or retiring to their Dwellings by leave of the House, or otherwise: and we shall particularly insist upon the re-admission of the Eleven Members, lately driven out of the House of Commons by the violent Pursuit of the Army, contrary to the Sense of the fame House, the Law of the Land, and the Privileges of Parliament; wherein also we are confident, all good English -Men, and Lovers of their Country, will adhere to them and us.

We should express our selves further to vindicate this City before the Kingdom, from the Aspersions which may have, throughout these Distractions, been cast upon this City, to have been the first Promoters and Contrivers of this unnatural War, which God for the Sins of this Nation hath brought upon the Kingdom: But that God is our Witness, how desirous we have been at all times, and still are, of a safe and well grounded Peace; and with what. Fellow-feeling we have looked upon the Miseries, which this long War hath brought upon our Fellow-Subjects throughout the Country.

And thus, as we have herein truly and clearly stated the matter of difference (if it can be called any) between us and the Army, to wit, this alone, that we could not submit the Militia of this City to be altered at the pleasure of an Army, after it had been so Orderly Settled in the Hands of such as were entrusted therewith for one whole Year, when there was a full and free Parliament; so we find it more than time, that the whole Kingdom were possessed with the true State thereof: And therefore, and to this end, we have been necessitated to this Declaration; whereby we are confident, the whole Kingdom will clearly discover, upon whom the Guilt of a New War (which we do still and will ever abhor) must justly lie: So, and no otherwise, shall we expect a Blessing from Almighty God, in our just Defence (if we must be put upon the same) than as from the bottom of our Hearts we sincerely desire an happy and speedy Peace, by the Settlement of true Religion in this Kingdom, by re-establishing His Majesty's just Rights and Authority, by upholding all lawful Privileges of a free Parliament, by maintaining the Fundamental Laws of the Land, by restoring and securing the Subject unto and in his just Right and Property, and by freeing this long oppressed Kingdom of all Taxes, and the enforced Free-Quarters towards the maintenance of an Army, which of a long time hath had no visible Enemy to encounter: And from this Resolution, by the Blessing of God, we shall never recede for any Earthly Consideration or Advantage whatsoever.

Mitchel.

Ordinance that Sir Tho. Fairfax hath no power over the Train-bands.

It was this Day declared, by the Lords and Commons, that, the Order of the 19th of July, which puts under the Command of Sir Thomas Fairfax all the Land Forces under the Pay of the Parliament doth not extend to give him any Power over the Trained-Bands Garrisons.

John Brown, Cler. Parl.

Hen. Elsing, Cler. Parl.

Ordered, by the Lords and Commons in Parliament assembled, that this Declaration be printed, and afterwards published by the Militia of the City of London by found of Trumpet; and that the Sheriffs of the several Counties of this Kingdom, and Principality of Wales, shall cause the same to be published within their several Limits accordingly.

Jo. Brown, Cler. Parliamentorum.

Wickham the Head-Quarter.

The Head-Quarters of the Army are this Night at Wickham, and to Morrow appointed at Colebrook. The King was this Day at Latimer.

Several Orders and Votes of both Houses of Parliament, made on Friday and Saturday last, for the bringing of the King's Majesty to some of His Houses near London, to receive Propositions from both Kingdoms for Peace, and for the Safety and Security of the King, Parliament, City, and Kingdom.

Die Veneris, Julii 30, 1647.

Resolved upon the Question by the Lords in Parliament, That the Right Honourable the Lord Willoughby of Parham be Speaker of this House pro tempore.

Die Veneris, Julii 30, 1647.

1. Resolved by the Commons assembled in Parliament, That Mr. Pelham, a Member of this House, be Speaker thereof.

2. That Mr. Pelham being presented by the Commons to the House of Peers, he made a Speech to their Lordships, declaring that the House of Commons had made choice of him (calling himself the most unworthy of them) to be their Speaker: Whereupon the Lords voted, That they do approve of the said Choice; and accordingly Mr. Pelham was established; and returning to the House of Commons, the Members cried, To the Chair.

Die Veneris, Julii 30 1647.

Resolved upon the Question by the Commons in Parliament assembled, That Denzil Hollis, Esq; Sir Philip Stapleton, Sir William Lewis, Sir John Clotworthy, Sir William Waller, Sir John Maynard, Major-General Massey, John Glynne, Esq; Recorder of London, Walter Long, Esq; Colonel Edward Harley, and Anthony Nicoll, Esq; be received into this House to sit and vote as Members thereof.

Die Veneris, Julii 30 1647.

Papers were delivered by the Sheriffs and others from the Common Council of the City of London, assuring the Houses, that care should be taken by the City for sufficient Guards to secure their fitting in Safety: Whereupon it was resolved upon the Question, by the Lords and Commons in Parliament, That Thanks be returned to the City of London for their Offers and Engagements to take care for the Parliaments sitting in Safety.

Die Veneris, Julii 30, 1647.

Resolved upon the Question by the Lords and Commons assembled in Parliament, That the Care of the King's Children be committed to the Lord Mayor of the City of London.

Die Veneris, Julii 30, 1647.

Resolved upon the Question by the Lords and Commons in Parliament assembled, That the Committee for the Safety of the Kingdom be revived, and Sir William Waller and Major-General Massey to be added to the said Committee, and that they repair to the Militia of London, to consult for the Safety of the King, Parliament, City, and Kingdoms.

The Names of the said Committee are, (viz.)

For the Right Honourable the Commissioners of Parliament residing with the Army.

The General's Letter to the Commissioners of Parliament.

My Lords and Gentlemen,
Having resolved upon this enclosed Dispatch to the City of London, I thought it my part to give you an account of it and to give you all assurance, that my Heart is deeply affected with the late Carriages towards the Parliament: And however others have neglected their Duty towards them for their security and defence; yet as God shall enable me, it shall be my great Business to improve all that is in my Hand for the preserving of them, and in them the Interest of the Nation, and what construction soever some formerly may have put upon the Proceedings of this Army; I trust the Lord will by his good Hand lead us into such good Actions, as shall witness our end answerable to all our Profession; to wit, for the good of the Kingdom, and therein to be an effectual saving to the great Authority of the Kingdom in the Parliament.

Your most assured Friend,
Thomas Fairfax.

Bedford, July 29, 1647.

Guildhall, London.

Die Veneris, 30 Julii, 1647.

By the Committee of Lords and Commons for Safety, Ordered, that the Reformadoes, Officers, and Soldiers be hereby desired to rendesvouz in St. James's Fields to Morrow in the Afternoon, and thereupon view of their numbers and qualities, consider and agree of Field Officers and others, as may put them in a condition fit for present Service in a Regimental way: And that this Committee may be certified thereof, and how they are mounted and armed.

Tho. Partington, Clerk to the said Committee.

Die Sabbati, 31 Julii, 1647.

Resolved upon the Question of the Lords and Commons in Parliament assembled, a Letter to be Tent to Sir Thomas Fairfax.

Die Sabbati, 31 Julii, 1647.

Resolved upon the Question, that the King's Majesty come to one of His Houses nearer London, that Propositions may be sent, and an Address made to His Majesty from both Houses of Parliament, of England and Scotland, for Peace.

Die Sabbati, 31 Julii, 1647.

Ordered, by the Lords and Commons in Parliament assembled, that the Committee at Trinity-House take care to secure the Block-Houses at Gravesend, and the Fort at Tilbury.

July 30, 1647.

A Letter from both Houses of Parliament to his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax, concerning the City of London, and other things relating to the Peace of the Kingdom.

May it please your Excellency,
The Houses having this Day received from their Commissioners a Copy of your Letter to them, dated at Bedford, July 29, with a Copy of another Letter of the same Date, writ to the City of London, in both which, though there be no accounts at all of the motion of your Army, yet the Houses understand by the Letters from their Commissioners, in which the Copies were enclosed, and otherwise, that you have given Orders for the marching of the Army towards London, upon pretence of defending the Houses from the danger of Tumults; upon consideration whereof the Houses have commanded us to let you understand, that as they cannot but have a deep Sense of the undue Liberty which some Apprentices of the City of London, and others, from whom they might have expected more Obedience, have taken to themselves to violate the just Authority, Privileges, and Freedom of Parliament, in which the Safety of the whole Kingdom is concerned, and so they doubt not but the Sense of so great an Offence will at last strike all their Breasts that have been accessary thereunto, with a Detestation of any Practices of the like nature for the future: And as the Houses cannot imagine that the Disorder committed by some Apprentices, or those that mingled with them, had the allowance of the City of London, so they have since received full Satisfaction by the strict Orders given out by the Lord-Mayor and Common Council of the City, to all Masters to have care of their Servants, and by their Declaration proclaimed in the several parts of the City, for the preventing and suppressing of Tumults, that they shall sit with much Freedom and Security from any disturbance for the future. And therefore the Houses, seeing no cause to command that Army, or any part thereof, to march up for their defence, but rather judging (by the Distractions raised at she News thereof) that the motion of the Army near the City, is like to precipitate the City and Army in a desperate and bloody Engagement, not only to the disturbance of the Parliaments Sitting, but also to the destruction thereof, and of all Authority, by casting the whole Kingdom into Confusion. For prevention thereof, they have sent you this enclosed Order, requiring you, as you tender the Freedom of Parliament, the Safety of the City and whole Kingdom, to give exact Obedience thereunto, this being all we have in Command, we rest,

Westminster, 30 July, 1647.

An Ordinance of the Lords and Commons in Parliament assembled, Enabling the Militia of London to punish such as do not repair to their Colours, whether they be Horse or Foot, as also giving Power to the Militia to Elect and Choose a Major General, or any other Officer for the Forces raised or to be raised within the City of London.

An Ordinance of the Lords and Commons assembled in Parliament.

Die Sabbati, 31 July, 1647.

Whereas the Lords and Commons in Parliament assembled, by Ordinance dated 10th July, 1647. did give Power to the Committee of the Militia of London for raising of Horse, and amongst other things did Ordain, that if any Person or Persons, charged to find Horses, Riders and Furniture, should refuse or neglect the same, shall forfeit and pay 20 l. It is hereby Ordained and Declared, that their Committee, and their several Sub-committees respectively, or such as they shall appoint, shall hereby have Power to levy the said 20 l. or any part thereof, by distress and sale of the Goods of the Party Offending, or to imprison their Persons till the same be paid, as they shall think fit. And if any Person charged to find a Horse, shall send in an unserviceable Horse, or insufficient Arms, or shall not send a sufficient or serviceable Person to ride the said Horse, he shall forfeit and pay for every such default in any the Cases aforesaid, Ten Pounds, to be levyed as aforesaid. And it is further Ordained, that the said Committee of the Militia, and their several Sub-Committees, shall have Power, and are hereby authorized, to lay and impose upon every Foot Soldier, either of the Trained-Bands or Auxiliaries, that shall neglect or refuse to appear at his Colours upon beat of the Drum 40 s. as a Fine for every such neglect or refusal to be levyed by Distress; and in default thereof, that the said Committee, or their Sub-Committees, shall have hereby Power to commit such Persons so refusing or neglecting his Duty, unto Prison, there to remain until he shall have paid the said Fine of 40 s. And the said Committee of the Militia, and their Sub-Committees shall have hereby Power to disarm any Person or Persons residing, or being within the City of London, Lines of Communication, Weekly Bills of Mortality, and Hamlets of the Tower, and secure their Persons that shall resist, oppose, obstruct, disswade, discourage, or any ways hinder the present Service of the King and Parliament, in the present and future preservation of the Parliament, City, and Places aforesaid, upon any pretence whatsoever, and such Persons shall be, and are hereby accounted and adjudged as Deserters of the Parliament and City. And the said Committee of the Militia shall from time to time hereby have Power to Elect and Choose a Major General, or any other Officer for the Forces raised and to be raised within the City of London, and Places aforesaid, and them to remove displace at pleasure, and to choose others of in his or their steads. And it is further Ordained and Declared, that the said Committee for the Militia of the City of London, and parts adjacent within the Lines of Communication and Parishes mentioned in the Weekly Bills of Mortality, or any of them, whereof three to be Aldermen, are hereby Authorized and Required to put in Execution within the Liberties aforesaid and also within the Hamlets of the Tower, all former Ordinances for the Militia of London, that were in force at the time of the passing of this Ordinance, according to the true meaning of the said Ordinances for the safeguarding of the Parliament, City, and Places aforesaid: And also for the suppression of all Forces, Rebellion Insurrections and Invasions, that may happen within the said Places, or that shall approach against the same. And it is also Ordained, shall Fines imposed by virtue of this Ordinance, shall be taken and employed by the said Committee of the Militia, and their Sub-Committee, for the advancement of the Service in such manner as they shall respectively think fit; and the said Committee of the Militia, and their Sub-Committees, for, and touching any Act or Acts done by them, or which hereafter shall be done in Execution of this Ordinance, or any other Ordinance heretofore made, touching the Militia, shall be by the Authority of Parliament saved Harmless and Indempnified. And lastly, That no privileged place or Person, within the Limits aforesaid, shall be exempted from the Power of this Ordinance, except the Peers of this Realm, and Members of the House of Commons, and Assistants of the House of Peers, and Officers and Attendants of both Houses respectively, who shall be exempted from this Ordinance, and all things therein contained, Provided that this Ordinance continue for a Month and no longer.

John Brown Cler. Parl.

Hen. Elsing Cler. Parl. Dom. Com.