Proceedings in Parliament: September 1st - October 2nd 1648

Chap. XXX.

Proceedings in Parliament, from Sept. 1. to Oct. 2. 1648.

Friday Sept. 1. 1648.

An Ordinance to be Printed for perfecting Officers Accounts, &c.

The House this day Ordered, 'That the Ordinance for Stating and Perfecting the Accompts of Officers and Soldiers, and Widows of Officers and Soldiers, be forthwith Printed and Published.

The Committee of Sequestrations appoint Rooms for Auditors.

They farther Ordered, "That the Committee of Sequestrations at Westminster should appoint certain Rooms in Worcester-house, under Sequestration, for the Auditors that are appointed to audit their Accompts.

Impropriations of the Lord Cottington to be disposed of for Ministers.

The House declared, that their Intentions were, That all Impropriations of the Lord Cottington, and all others assigned for Ireland, do continue and be disposed of for Augmentations to Ministers, or any part thereof, that hath been, or shall be, assigned by the Committee of Plunder'd Ministers.

What Impropriations are purchased, &c.

The Committee of Goldsmiths-Hall was Ordered to certifie what Impropriations of Delinquents are Purchased by them upon Allowance in their Compositions, and what Impropriations are in pursuance thereof settled according to the Law of the Land.

Both Houses nominated their Commissioners to attend His Majesty on the Treaty.

The House considered of nominating Commissioners to attend His Majesty upon the Treaty, the Lords having voted Five Members of their House, viz. The Earl of Salisbury, Earl of Pembroke, Lord Say, Earl of Middlesex, and Earl of Northumberland: The House of Commons therefore voted a proportionable Number to join with them, viz. Mr. Holles, the Lord Wenman, Mr. Wm. Pierepoint, Sir Henry Vane Jun. Sir Harb. Grimston, Mr. Sam. Browne, Mr. Crew, Mr. Recorder Glyn, Sir John Potts. Mr. Bulkeley.

Saturday Sept. 2. 1648.

A Letter Ordered, to acquaint His Majesty concerning the Persons to Attend Him; what they had done in it, and the Name of their Commissioners.

The House had farther Debate concerning the Treaty with His Majesty, and Ordered, "That a Letter should be sent to His Majesty, to acquaint Him What they had done upon His Majesties last Message, concerning Persons to attend Him during the time of the Treaty; and farther to acquaint His Majesty with the Names of the Commissioners appointed by both Houses to Treat with His Majesty upon the late Propositions presented to Him at Hampton-Court, who shall be dispatch'd away with all convenient speed to Him.

Sir Peter Killegrew Ordered to be dispatched away with this Message.

They Ordered, 'That Sir Peter Killegrew should be dispatch'd away presently with this Message to His Majesty, which was Assented unto by both Houses, and done accordingly.

That Major-General Lambert is gone in to the North to engage Monroe.

A Letter this day came from Stafford, intimating, 'That Major-General Lambert with his Four Regiments of Horse, upon Lieutenant-Gen. Cromwell's desire, returned from these parts farther into the North, to Engage with him against Monroe.

No farther execution done upon any.; A Thousand Prisoners are coming to London, many being Citizens.; The General removes to Yarmouth.

From Colchester we understand, no farther Execution hath as yet been done upon any, since Lucas and Lisle; the General hath given Order for sending up the Prisoners, taken in Colchester, above 1000 of them, to London, a great many of them being Citizens. Monday or Tuesday next, the General removes to yarmouth.

An Ordinance was read, "For Requiring and Authorizing the Committee at Goldsmiths-Hall, to pay the 50000l. remainder of the last 10000l. due to the Scots; 40000l. to the Committee of the Admiralty, for the present Service of the Navy; 7000l. to furnish and supply the Stores of Ammunition; and the other 3000l. to be paid to Col. Gen. Ashton, for the Payment of the Forces of the County of Lancaster, who have lately done good service against the Scots: This was Assented to, and Ordered to be Transmitted to the Lords for their Concurrence.

Monday, Sept. 4. 1648.

Servants to atend the Commissioners during the Treaty with His Majesty.; Commissioners to Treat with His Majesty. Persons engaged in the late Rebellion in Surrey, &c. admited to a 4th part of their Estates. Major Rolfe discharged.

The House of Peers this day returned the Names of those Servants that are to attend the Commissioners of both Houses, during the Treaty with His Majesty, which the Commons approved of; also an Ordinance, "To enable the Commissioners of both Houses to Treat with His Majesty upon the Propositions presented to Him at Hampton-Court, Past: Those Persons who Engaged in the late Rebellion in Surrey, Sussex, Kent and Essex, admitted to Composition at a Fourth value of their Estates, provided, they were not upon Composition before at a higher value; Major Rolfe attending at the Commons Door with his Keeper, was called in, delivered his Remonstrance against the Judges in the Lords House, and against Mr. Osborne and Dowcet, desiring Vindication and Reparation, the House Ordeeed his Discharge.

Lieut. Colonel Lilburn's Grievance to be read tomorrow.; The Committee to supply the Plantations with Scotch Prisoners, and the rest to Venice.; A Vessel having 1500 Carbines secured, &c.

Lieutenant-Col. Lilburn also Presented his Remembrance to the House, desiring them to pass his Ordinance for Reparations: Ordered, 'That the Ordinance for giving him Reparation for an illegal Sentence against him in the Star-Chamber, should be read to morrow Morning the first Business. A Report was made by Col. Moore, to whom the Consideration of Transporting the Scots Prisoners was refer red; they Voted hereupon, "That that Committee should take care in the first place to supply the Plantations, and then the rest to be disposed of for Venice; The Committee is to take special Security for Transporting of them to no other places, and that none of them shall ever return, to the prejudice of this Kingdom; That within 14 days after they are contracted for, the Contractors arc to disburthen the Kingdom of their Charge. A Letter from Exeter, of a Vessel, where in 1500 Carbines are found, desiring the Houses pleasure therein; who Voted, "That the Committee of the West should give Order to secure the Ship and Carbines, till the Business be heard and determined by the Committee of the Navy.

A Humiliation day for a Blessing on the Treaty with His Majesty Instructions for safe keeping His Majesty in Carisbrook-Castle, Repealed. Colonel Hammond desires an addition of Horse, Foot, and Shipping, to lie near the Island A Rendezvous of the Forces with the Auxiliaries of Suffolk and Essex A Thanks giving the last of August.; 12000l. Levied on Colchester. 2000l. given to Essex and Suffolk Men. Barkstead and Whaley's Regiments order'd to Yarmouth.; The Lords taken at Colchester to go to windsor-Castle, other Officers to several Towns; and Common Soldiers to America and Venice. 7000 Scots Irish and English are under Monroe, &c.; Sir Phil. Musgrove, &c.; with 500 Horse Levied the Country for Trained Bands Ma. Ge. Lambert on his march to Lieut General Cromwell.

The Lords passed an Order, "For a day of Humiliation on Tuesday next, to desire a Blessing on the Treaty with His Majesty; the Commons also Concurred.

The Instructions to Col. Hammond for safe keeping His Majesty in Carisbrook-Castle repealed: Col. Hammond's taking the Kings's own Engagement to go abroad in the Island; His Majesty to have Horses provided to ride about the Island, referred to the Committee of the Revenue, to provide them with all speed: Col. Hammond desires to have an addition of Horse and Foot, during the time of the Treaty, referred to his Excellency, and the Committee of the Army; and his farther desire for Shipping to lie near the Island, referred to the Committee of the Navy, to prepare them with speed.

From Colchester, Sept. 3. came thus; "We have had a Rendezvous on Wednesday of ours, with the Auxiliaries of Suffolk and Essex; it was a Wet Day, and so the Compleatment was hindred; yet we shook hands with them; great Volleys of Shot past, and they were dismist. A day of Thanksgiving was the last of August. 12000l. was to be Levied upon the Town, of which 2000 was given to the Essex and Suffolk Men; 2000 the General abates. On Friday Col. Barkstead's and Col. Whaley's Regiments Ordered towards Yarmouth, after whom goes Commissary-General Ireton. The Prisoners taken in this Town are disposed after this manner; The Lords, with Two Men apiece attending them, and Twelve other Officers, are to march with the General's Regiment to Morrow, and to be sent Prisoners to Windsor; the other Officers are to be sent, some to the Mount, some to Pendennis, some to Cardiffe, Oxford, Arundel, and divers other Strengths, but none beyond Trent; the Common Soldiers, Prisoners, to be conveyed West, as to Bristol, and other Sea Towns, that so they may pass to America; Venice, or as they shall be appointed. The, Gentlemen, not Soldiers, are committed to the care of Troopers and others, until farther Order be taken. If Yarmouth divert not, our Head Quarters is like to be about Cambridge.

From the North, Post Letters this day certify; "There are Scots, Irish, and English, above 7000 under the Command of Major-General Monroe; they have with them 20 pieces of Ordnance; 2500 continue about Appleby; Sir Philip Musgrove, Sir Rob. Strickland, Sir William Blackstone, and 500 Horse with them, came into Cleaveland on Monday last, and began to Levy the Country for the Train-Bands.

Major-General Lambert is coming up with Four Regiments towards Lieutenant-General Cromwell, Capt. Smith, and Lieutenant Holt Commanded a Party of 160 Musquetiers out of Hull to Scarborough, for the strenthening of the Leagure there; Sir Philip Musgrove, with the 500 Horse, intended to raise the Siege before Scarborough, but they found the Party too strong, and therefore drew back. There is Col. Bethel's Regiment of Horse, and Col. Legard's of Foot, and a Commanded Party out of Hull; Col. Bointon hath in the Castle 80 Foot, and 20 Horse; 20 Horse and 30 Foot having Deserted him since the Siege, and others come out daily from him: Sir Hugh Carteret and Sir John Digby are gone to Nottingham, upon their Paroll, to advise with Sir Marmaduke Langdale, Prisoner there, upon the Surrender of Pontefract Castle.

Tuesday, Sept. 5. 1648.

A Letter from the Earl of Warwick to the House of the pursuit of the Prince and the Revolted Ships The particulars of his pursuit follow.

This day a Letter was read from the Earl of Warwick, directed to the Lords and Commons at Derby-House, giving an Account of his Proceedings and Pursuit of the Prince, and the Revolted Ships, to this purpose.

"August 29. The Fleet with me proceeded down as low as the Shooe; that day we discovered the Revolted Ships, small and great, at least Twenty in number; that night we Anchoring off the Buoy of the-Noreedge, and the Enemy not above a League distance from us, the Prince sent me a Summons by Mr. Henry Seymour, which I received, and Answered, as I gave an Account in my last; Tuesday and Wednesday no Engagement; Thursday I called a Council of War, and then it was again considered, That the Portsmouth Fleet was not come in, nor heard of; that some Ships of this Fleet, especially the great ones, would in all probability be forced upon the Sands, if we should here Engage; which would also produce the like effect, as to some of the Revolted Ships, whereby the strength of the Navy would be much-impaired, that on the miscarriage of this Fleet, depended the miscarriage of the Portsmouth Fleet, and the putting of very high advantages into the Enemies hands, farther to prejudice the Trade of the Kingdom, and to make their strength at Sea much more considerable; upon which, and some other grounds then offered, it was unanimously resolved, that the Ships of this Fleet should observe the Enemiesmotion, and if he plies up, then to ply up before him; but by the time that these and some other Resolutions of the Council of War were digested, and ready to be Signed, the Vice-Admiral of the Revolted Ships did weigh, and shortly after so did the rest, and forthwith their whole Fleet flood away; I did thereupon give Order to the Fleet with me to weigh, and give them Chace, although the Portsmouth Ships were not yet come up, some of our Ships keeping at a small distance.

'The next Morning we found that the Revolters had withdrawn themselves in the night, and about 6 of the Clock we discovered the Portsmouth Ships; whereupon I gave Order to weigh, but the Wind grew so high, that the Pilot delivered his Opinion, that this Ship would not in such Weather be able to Sail, without danger of siding upon the Gunfleet-Sands; whereupon we remained there at Anchor all that Day, the Wind continuing till Night very high.

This Day we weighed from the middle of the Gunfleet, and met with all the Portsmouth Fleet, and proceeded together to Alborough Rode, to enquire after the Revolted Fleet; where Anchoring, I spoke with the Captains that came from Portsmouth, who represent their several Companies, to be as Cordial and Resolute for the Enemies Reduction, as could be desired.

"Since our coming hither, I have endeavoured to inform my, self, which way the Revolters are gone, and find it most probable, that they are retired to Goree, there being not the least Intimation in these Parts, that they are gone Northwards: Therefore shall (God willing) repair to morrow Morning towards the Downs, where I shall expect your Lordships farther Commands, intending in the mean time to send an Express to Holland for a certain Account, whether the Ships are in Goree; that I may be in a quicker Capacity to put in Execution such Orders, as shall be given me in Charge concerning them.

"I shall do no more, but to commend it to your Lordships Consideration, whether it may not be necessary, That the Order be renewed for Indemnity to the Revolters, upon their submission to the Parliaments Obedience.

Aboard the St. George, Alborough Road, Sept. 2. 1648.

That all Malignants in Surry, Essex, &c. be incapable to be impannell'd on the Jury.

The House was then informed, that in many Counties of this Kingdom, the Malignants were rather chosen to be of Juries, than any other, whereby great danger, and sometimes loss of Life, might accrue to the Friends of the Parliament; and especially in these Counties, where the Enemy did lately rife. The House to prevent this for the future, and to give an Encouragement and Justice to their Friends, Ordered, "That all Persons that were in the late Insurrections, in the Counties of Surry, Sussex, Kent, and Essex, may for ever hereafter be incapable of being Impannell'd upon any Jury whatsoever: And that the Judges who ride the several Circuits of the Kingdom, and the Justices of Peace of the several Counties, do take special Notice of this Order, and see the same put in Execution from time to time.

All former Ordinances of taking away the Voices of Delinquents in Elections, be put in Execution.

They were likewise informed, That in many Cities and Corporate Towns in this Kingdom, the Malignants that inhabited therein were so presumptuous, notwithstanding the Votes of the Houses to the contrary, to give their Voices in Election of Officers; the House hereupon Ordered, "That the former Orders or Ordinances for taking away the Voices of Delinquents in Elections, should be put in Execution; and all Officers of Cities and Towns Corporate were required to take special Notice thereof.

Upon Call of the Members, any that are then absent, to have a Fine imposed on them.

The House then debated concerning a Call of the Members that were absent, and had made their Excuses upon their last Call; and Ordered, "That the House should be called on this day three Weeks, and that all the Members that are absent should be required to attend on that Day; excepting such as were upon extraordinary Employments, and the House should think sit to excuse; and all such as did not attend accordingly, to have a Fine imposed upon them.

Order'd 20l. to be imposed on absent Members.

The House had much Debate, concerning the Fine to be imposed upon such Members as make Default; 100l. was at first propounded, then 50l. but at last it was Ordered, that 20l. should be imposed upon them.

The House then considered of the Petition of Lieut. Col. Lilburn, in reference to the passing his Ordinance, for giving him Reparation for his unjust Sentence in the Star-Chamber, the House having Voted him 3000l. Damage many Years since.

Ordinance for settling 3000l. upon Lieut. Col. Lilburn &c.

An Ordinance for settling 3000l. upon him, to be advanced out of the Lord Coventry's Estate, was read; and upon the Question laid aside.

The House not agreeing, order'd 3000l. of Delinquent's Lands to be sold, &c.

The House only disagreeing in the Manner, Ordered, "That 3000l. 'worth of Delinquents Lands should be fold unto Lieut. Col. John Lilburn in Fee, at 12 Years Purchase; and that an Ordinance of Parliament should be brought in for that Purpose, with all convenient speed.

The Lords Message desiring the Commons Concurrence, &c.; Earl of Cleveland to be bailed for his health.; The Countess of Kildare some Reparation, &c.

The Lords sent a Message to the Commons, desiring their Concurrence for Dr. Burges, to have his Place at Paul's settled upon him under the Great Seal of England: To communicate the Earl of Cleveland's Petition, Prisoner in the Tower, for his Liberty 3 Months upon Bail, he being sickly and desiring the fresh Air: Also a Petition from the Counters of Kildare, of her great Losses in Ireland, of which she desires some Reparations.

Newcastle Letters say, 5000 Scots are come over Tweed.; Many English ask Quarter of our Governour. The Committee of Berwick sit, &c.; Many English with Monroe. Col. Fenwick's Horse and some Dragoons, relieve Holy Island, &c.

"From Newcastle, Sept, I. It is with Confidence reported here, That 5000, new Scots are come over Tweed; which if true, they will be again 12000; who though they shall not fight with the Lieut. General, as it's believed they will not, yet will they disturb much the Recovery of the Towns of Berwick and Carlisle, and our Accommodation to that Purpose, which must be in Scotland, they having wasted so the English Borders; we hear not of any suffering Presbiterians that appear in Scotland in Arms, though an English Army hath not only drawn North, but shattered the great Scotch Army: Here came in divers English who ask Quarter of our Governour, desiring Service. The Committee of Berwick and Carlisle fit upon Sequestrations, notwithstanding things are as they are, and raise Moneys of the Countries: With Monroe are many English of these Parts, who are by their Landlords still encouraged; Col. Fenwick's Horse and some Dragoons went near Berwick, relieved Holy: Island with Necessaries, stormed Fenham Castle near thereto, in which was a Scotch Garison, Summoned Haggerston but there came so many from Berwick, that they were constrained to quit it.

Wednesday, Sept. 6. 1648.

Several Sums to Tradesman.; An Order how to dispose 10000l. advanced by the City.

The House this day Ordered several Sums to Tradesmen, who formerly trusted the Lord Inchiqueen with Arms, to a great Value.

A Report was made to the House, from the Committee of Lords and Commons concerning the Treaty, how the 10000l. must be disbursed, which the House hath desired the City to advance: viz. 500l. thereof, for Coach and Horses and other Furniture for His Majesty; 6000l. more thereof, to be for His Majesty's private use and 3000l. for the desraying the Charges of the Commissioners; all which the House approved.

The House to be in a Grand Committee.

The House spent much time in Debate of an Ordinance for Sale of Deans and Chapters Lands in the Kingdom of England, Dominion of Wales, and Town of Berwick; having read it over the first time, and Order'd, "That on Friday next, the House should be turned into a Grand Committee, to consider of this Ordinance, and no other Business to have Precedency.

The Commons send Messengers of their own. Their Concurrence for the Lord Cleveland's Liberty.

The Commons debated the Message from the House of Peers, about Dr. Burges; resolved to send Answer by Messengers of their own; The Lord Cleveland's Liberty upon Bail, to which they Concurred with this Proviso, That he engage upon his Honour, not to act against the Parliament.

Holland Letters say, the Prince will sell those Prizes be got.

From Holland say Letters, "The Prince of Wales, who is expected hourly in the Brill, had some Coaches sent from the Hague to fetch him in; The common Report is, He is to rig the Ships, again; and those Prizes which he got in the Downs, he intends to fell, and with the Money to levy some Forces. Amongst the States it was disputed, whether he should be entertained by them in a publick way, or whether so much per Diem should be allowed unto him for some time? The Result it's said was, That 1000 Gilders should be allowed him per Diem, Some Discontent amongst the Seamen of the revolted Ships with the Prince.

Sir John Clot worthy desires his Accounts to be presented to the House.

This day Sir John Clotworthy, desired his Accompts might be presented to the House of Commons, which have laid in the Hands of the Committee of Accounts four Years; the State is returned to be 3145l. in his Debt, which he had procured on his own Credit, and distributed amongst his Soldiers, over and above what hath been provided by the State for them.

A Committee is to consider of his Personal Pay, &c.

The House took special Notice of the Reports and his Suffering, as also how his Regiment hath been these several Years, and is still, maintained on his Estate; they referred the Consideration of his Personal Pay to the Committee for the Affairs of Ireland, and expressed an acceptable Sense of his Carriage.

Thursday Sept. 7. 1648.

Thanksgiving day.; His Majesty's Answer to the Houses last Letters, &c.

This Day being Thanksgiving-Day the Houses sate not; it was punctually observed throughout London and Westminster.

Sir Peter Killegrew returned this day from the Isle of Wight, with His Majesty's Answer to the Houses last Letter, which he delivered to His Majesty last Monday and the next day, about Four in the Afternoon, His Majesty gave His Answer, desiring, That the Treaty may be hastened; That he could have wished all those be desires might have been admitted to him, but will not let that hinder the Treaty: And now desires, that Dr. Duck and Dr. Reeves, two Civil Lawyers, may be admitted to him in relation to the Treaty. His Majesty asked a Gentleman that wore a Black Ribbon, which was there with him, Who he Mourned for? He answered, For Sir Charles Lucas: And being told of his Death, His Majesty wept. Sir Edward Walker is come hither, but is not yet admitted to His Majesty, because of Instructions to the Governour, that none in that Capacity shall be admitted. His Majesty intends to remove to the House in Newport as this day.

Friday, Sept. 8. 1648.

Ld. Admiral's farther Relation of the flight of the Prince and the Conjunction of the Portsmouth Ships with his, &c.

This day came farther from the Earl of Warwick to the House of Peers to this purpose: 'The Proceedings of the Fleet, since our weighing from Lee-Rood, was represented in my last; since that, it hath pleased God to bring the whole Fleet safely into the Downs: And now I shall make bold to give you the Trouble of this Addition.

It pleased God, notwithstanding all the Counter-works of the Kingdoms Enemies, and the great Discouragements that occurred in this Expedition, to enable us, after some time, to get the Ships lately in the River of Thames conveniently Manned; His Power and Goodness to the Nation was farther manifested, in giving to the Companies of those several Ships Spirits unanimously to engage their Resolutions against the Common Enemies of the Kingdom at Sea, that had so wickedly departed from their Trust and Duty, where of we had a most glorious and seasonable Experiment, at that time when the Enemy drew near us with a Fleet above the proportion of that Strength we then had, to the defeating and disappointment of that Confidence of some who foolishly boasted of the great Share and Interest in their Affection.

That Mercy the same Power was pleased to Second, with causing those Enemies to turn their Backs, even when his Arrows were but making ready upon the String against the Face of them; and yet God rested not there, but the next Day after the Enemies Retirement, he was pleased to bring into a happy Conjunction with us the Portsmouth Ships, whose Companies had likewise testified the same Spirit of Courage and Unanimity for the Parliament's Service: And now we are here together, with a Fleet, which for Number and Quality of Ships, and Temper of Seamen, is fitted, I hope, through the strength of God, effectually to execute and accomplish whatever may rationally be expected from it for the Publick Service. A Lift of the Ships I have here inclosed; and truly I may not omit to represent the Fidelity, Constancy and Courage of the Captains, having had no occasion since my coming forth, to take notice of the least Backwardness of any of them to pursue their Duty to their utmost Diligence.

I shall stay here a little time to supply Water, Ballast, and a few other Necessaries; which being compleated, I shall, God willing, improve Time and Opportunity with all possible Advantages for Action, not doubting but as God hath hitherto helped us, so he will still accompany us with his Presence, Counsel, and Blessing, and make bare his Glorious Arm at Sea, as he hath done on Shore, and so make it good, that he is the Strength and Confidence both of the Ends of the Earth, and of them that are far off upon the Sea.

I shall add, that being upon the place, I have considered the great Importance of getting the Castles at the Downs into a Condition of Service, the Protection of the Fleet, and of Trade, having such a Dependance thereupon; of their great Ruines, I am now an Eye witness: If therefore a Course may be thought upon for their putting into Repair, and settling of an Establishment for their future Pay, it would be worthy of the Parliament's Care to direct it, which in discharge of my Duty I do earnestly recommend unto them accordingly. And so desiring God to direct and prosper all your Councels to his Glory, and the Kingdoms Settlement, I rest,

Your Lordship's humble Servant,
Warwick.

Deale, Sept. 5; 1648.

A List of the Parliaments Fleet now in the Downs, and thereabouts, the 5th of September 1648. under Robert Earl of Warwick, Lord High Admiral.

A Lift of the Parliaments Fleet in the Downs.

St. George, Unicorn, Lion, Phoenix, Nonsuch, Adventure, Tyger, Mary Rose, Providence, Fellowship, Hector, Recovery, Greyhound, Tenth Whelp, Nichodemus, Weymouth Pink, Lilly, Hart, Robert, Three Ketches, Hunter, Dogger-boat, Dolphin.

The Debate of Deans and Chapters Lands to be next Thursday. The City desired to advance 3000l. of the 10000l. for the Commissioners to Treat with his Majesty.

The House this Day, according to former Order, considered of the Ordinance for the Deans and Chapters Lands, and Ordered to resume the Debate thereof on Thusday next.

A Committee was appointed to go into the City, to desire them to Advance 3000l. of the 10000l. for the Commissioners to Treat with His Majesty, for their present Service, and the residue of the 10000l. with all convenient speed, that no Obstruction may be to the Treaty for want thereof.

Thanks to the Ministers that Preached yesterday.

They Ordered, 'That the Ministers that Preached Yesterday should have the Thanks of the House, for the great Care and Pains they took in their Sermons at the Houses Desire; and that they shall have the same Liberty to print their Sermons, as others upon the like occasion.

Surrender of Sandown Castle in Kent.

The House being informed, That Major Husbands was at the Door to acquaint them with the Surrender of Sandown Castle in Kent, he was called in, and acquainted them with the Condition of all the Three Castles, and how Dr. Castleton was torn all in pieces with a Granadoe; that two of the Castles were somewhat out of repair, but a small matter would repair them, and make them as serviceable as ever: The House hereupon Ordered, 'That the Committee at Derby-House should write Letters to the Committee of Kent, and to Col. Rich, to desire them to repair to the Lord Admiral, and Treat with him concerning the said Castles, what will repair them; and of an establishment of Pay for them.

Ld. General abated 4000l. of 14000l. Fine laid upon Colchester. Order'd 5000l. to be raised out of Colchester Delinquents Compositions &c.

Letters came from the Lord General, concerning the Fine which was set upon the Town of Colchester, in lieu of the Plunder of it due to the Soldiers; "That he had abated 4000l. of 14000l. and that Sum was likewise very hard to be raised.

The House hereupon Ordered, "That 5000l. should be raised out of the Sequestrations and Compositions of Delinquents in Colchester, for making good what was promised to the Forces engaged in this Siege against Colchester, in lieu of the Pillage of the said Town; and if they fall short, the residue to be paid out of the other Sequestrations, or Compositions of other Delinquents in the County of Essex.

Lord Goring &c. gone Prisoners to Windsor. Yarmouth freely submitted, part of the Army remains.

The Lord Goring, Lord Capell, Lord of Loughborow, and other Prisoners taken at Colchester, passed by London towards Windsor where they are to be kept Prisoners, by the direction of the General, until farther Order; his Excellency remains with part of the Army as yet about Colchester: Yarmouth have submitted to the General very freely: The Kentish and Essex Common Prisoners are sent home; those from London towards Bristol, to be Transported.

Saturday, Septemb. 9. 1648.

The City had provided 3000l. for the use of the Commissioners.

According to the Desire of the House Yesterday, to the City, to advance 3000l. for the present Service of the Commissioners to Treat with His Majesty; Report was made to the House, "That the City had provided the same, which the House ordered should be employed according to former Order.

Order'd that 20l. be made up 150l. for Major Rolfe.

The House Ordered, "That the Sum of 20l. formerly given to Major Rolfe for unjust Imprisonment, should be made up 150l.

Ordered those who rescued Major Armstrong at Brentford, be taken into Custody.

The House was informed, that Major Armstrong, one of the Prisoners going to Windsor, was rescued at Brentford; the House ordered, "several Parties that so rescued him should be sent for as Delinquents, and taken into present Custody of the Sergeant at Arms.

Ordered a Troop of Horse to seize them. Lieut. General Cromwell near Berwick; the Country rises with him, &c.

The Captain that commands the Horse-Guard this day, was Ordered; "To send a Squadron of Horse to seize on these Delinquents accordingly.

From the North came farther, "That Lieutenant-General Cromwell is at this time as far as Berwick; the Country Rises generally with him; Monroe declines Engagement, and lies 30 Miles wide of him; the Lieutenant-General hath sent to Edenburgh, That they recall Monroe, and the Forces with him out of England, Surrender our Garrisons or to take what follows.

Septem. 9. 1948.

Monday, Sept. 11. 1648.

The Commons this day considered of His Majesty s Letter, and the Pass with Blanks, desiring to send into Scotland.

The House agree not to grant the Pass with Blanks, &c.

The Commons agreed to send a Letter to His Majesty, in Answer to His, to which also the Lords agreed; to satisfie His Majesty wherefore they could not grant the Pass with Blanks, for them to name in Scotland; but that His Majesty would be pleased to send to Scotland, for them to name whom they will send, before a Pass be granted.

That Mr. Parsons go to His Majesty.

The Pass for Mr. Parsons to go to His Majesty, and to Scotland, was agreed to.

Instructions to secure Carriages to the Isle of Wight.

The Commons passed Instructions for securing Carriages to the Isle of Wight, and other things in relation, preparatory to the Treaty.

A Pass granted Monsieur Belford, to transport 6, Horses into France: The Business about garisoning the Earl of Lincolns House, referred to Derby-House, and the Committee of the County of Lincoln, to take Cate for the Security thereof.

A Pass granted to Belford, to transport six Horses into France.

A Petition of Thousands well-affected about London.

A Petition was this day delivered to the Commons, Intituled, An humble Petition of Thousands of well-affected, dwelling in and about London; giving the House many Reasons why they first assisted them in this War with their Persons and Purses; and let them know, they expected other Ways from them than a Treaty, and such other things as they find insisted upon, and that they would have proceeded upon, and perfected such as they after mentioned, which are 27. And because of such high Concernment, we will insert the Heads briefly.

The Heads of the said Petition.

• 1. That they would make good the Supream of the People from all pretences of negative Voices, either in the King or Lords.
• 2. That they would have made Laws for Election of Representatives yearly, and of Course, without Writ or Summons.
• 3. That their time of Sitting exceed not 40 or 50 days at the most, and to have fixed an expressed time for the ending of this present Parliament.
• 4. That they would have exempted matters of Religion and God's Worship from the compulsive or restrictive Power of any Authority.
• 5. That none be forced or pressed to serve in War.
• 6. That they would have made both Kings, Queens, Princes, Dukes, Earls Lords, and all Persons, alike liable to every Law of the Land.
• 7. That all Commoners be freed from the jurisdiction of the Lords in all Cases; and to have taken Care, that all Tryals be only of 12 sworn Men; and no Conviction but upon Two or more sufficient known Witnesses.
• 8. That none be examined against themselves, nor be punished for doing of that, against which no Law hath been provided.
• 9. That the Proceedings in Law be abreviated, mitigated and made certain, the Charge thereof in all particulars.
• 10. That all Trade and Merchandizing be made free from all Monopolizing and Engrossing, by Companies, or otherwise.
• 11. That the Excise and all kind of Taxes, except Subsidies, be taken off.
• 12. That you would have laid open all late Inclosures of Fens, and other Commons, or have enclosed them only or chiefly to the Benefit of the Poor.
• 13. That they would have considered the many Thousands that are ruined by perpetual Imprisonment for Debt, and provided to their Enlargement.
• 14. Have ordered some effectual Course to keep People from Begging and Beggary, in so fruitful a Nation as through God's Blessing this is.
• 15. That they would have proportioned Punishments more equal to Offences, that so Mens Lives and Estates might not be forfeited upon trivial and flight occasions.
• 16. Have removed the tedious Burthen of Tythes, satisfying all Impropriators, and providing a more equal way of Maintenance for our poor Ministers.
• 17. Have raised a Stock of Money out of consiscated Estates, for Payment of those, who contributed voluntarily above their Abilities, before those that disbursed out of their Superfluities.
• 18. Bound themselves and all future Parliaments from abolishing Propriety, leveling Mens Estates, or making all things common.
• 19. That they would have declared, what the Duty or Business of the Kingly Office is, and what not; and ascertained the Revenue past Increase or Diminution; that so there might never be more Quarrels about the same.
• 20. That they would have rectified the Election of publick Officers for the City of London, of every particular Company therein; restoring the Commonalty thereof to their just Rights, most unjustly withheld from them, to the producing and maintaining of corrupt Interest, opposite to common Freedom, and exceedingly prejudicial to the Trade and Manufactures of this Nation.
• 21. That they would have made full and ample Reparations to all Persons that had been oppressed by Sentences in High Commission, Star-Chamber and Council-Board; or by any kind of Monopolizers or Projectors, and that out of the Estates of those that were Authors, Actors, or Promoters of so intolerable Mischiefs, and that without much Attendance.
• 22. That they would have abolished all Committees, and have conveyed all Businesses, into the true Method of the usual Tryals, of the Common-Wealth.
• 23. That they would not have followed the Example of former Tyrannous and Superstitious Parliaments, in making Orders, Ordinances or Laws, or in appointing Punishments concerning Opinions or Things supernatural, stiling some Blasphemies, others Heresies.
• 24. That they would have declared, what the Business of the Lords is, and ascertain their Condition, not derogating from the Liberties of other Men; that so there might be an end of striving about the same.
• 25. That they would have done Justice upon the Capital Authors and Promoters of the former or late Wars.
• 26. That they would have provided constant Pay for the Army, and given Rules to all Judges, and all other publick Officers throughout the Land, for their Indemnity; and for the saving harmless all that have any ways assisted.
• 27. That they would have laid to heart the abundance of innocent Blood that hath been spilt, and the infinite Spoil and Havock that hath been made of peaceable harmless People, by express 'Commission from the King; and seriously to have considered, whether the Justice of God be likely to be satisfied or is his yet continuing Wrath appeased by an Act of Oblivion.

The House thanks them for their Care, &c.

The House received this Petition, and returned Answer thereunto, which was to this Effect: viz. "That the House gave them Thanks 'for their great Pains and Care to the publick Good of the Kingdom, and would speedily take their humble Desires into Consideration.

A Petition or Representation of the well affected Masters and Commanders of Ships.

A Petition was likewise presented to the House, Intituled, The humble Petition or Representation of well affected Masters and Commanders of Ships; setting forth, "That as in Judgment and Conscience being there unto induced by the solemn Declarations of Parliament, they at first did, and still do, contribute their Estates, and adventure their Lives, for the Preservation of the Parliaments Honour; so they expected the securing of the People's just Rights and Liberties.

Desiring a Redress of their Slavery and Oppression.

"That, contrary to the said Declarations and their own Expectations, they have found such Practices promoted of late days, as hath not only wounded the Parliament's Honour, and made them become odious in the Eyes of many of the Nation; but also instead of Freedom and Preservation, so solemnly propounded to the People, Slavery and Oppression is entailed to them and their Posterity, as the only Price of that Blood, and Treasure so freely lent and expended in the late War, &c.

"That since the Hollander hath almost engrossed all the Trade at Sea, and now absolutely refuseth to grant Convoys to the English as heretofore; and forasmuch as thereby their Trade is wholly destroyed, some Merchants not daring, and others absolutely refusing to ship their Goods with them.

That 4 or 5 fighting Ships be appointed as Convoys to guard their Ships to the Netherlands.

That therefore the House would appoint 4 or 5 fighting Ships to serve as constant Convoys, to guard their Shipping from Gravesend, into the Ports in the Netherlands and France, and return back with others homeward bound; that being the constant Order of the Hollander, by which Means their Trade is increased, and they mightily enriched. That the House will prevent that Necessity, which must (if not removed) occasion an estrangement of their Affections and Assistance toward them; that, as soon as may be, all Monopolies and Restraint of Trade may be removed, and some way taken to prevent the shipping of Goods in foreign Bottoms, to the end that Trade again be restored, and the Glory of the Nation preserved.

Two greatest revolted Ship put in to mend in Holland.

A Squadron ordered after the Pirates.

'From the Navy came thus: Two of the greatest Revolted Ships are put in, and mending in Holland, Three more to be mended, and some Commissions granted to Pirates, &c. A Council of War was called, and resolved, That a Squadron be sent after them to Holland. Two Ships to be sent Northward, and Instructions for the Dispose of others.

A Gentleman from the revolted Ships, declare the Sailors Insolence to the Prince.

There came a Gentleman from the revolted Ships, and cries out upon the Sailors, That they are insolent in their Carriage to the Prince; That they will obey none of the Decrees of his Council of War, saying, They can make their Peace with the Parliament when they please. The Prince and Ships are said to be come to Goree in Zealand, whither he will have publick Entertainment.

The Prince, &c are gone to Zealand. His Majesty has his Liberty and rode to Sir William Hodges, &c.

'From the isle of Wight came Letters, that His Majesty had his Liberty out of Carisbrook-Castle Wednesday last, after he had dined; those Gentlemen about him rid with him to this Town, and His Majesty is this Night at Sir William Hodges's, the Place appointed for the Treaty: Some of his new Attendants are come, others expected, the Book of Common Prayer is here again.

A Council of War at Chester, &c.

From Chester by Letters is thus certified: "This last Week we had a Council of War sat, for the Tryal of those that had a hand in the Plot, for the betraying this Castle and City; Two were condemned, Lieut. Oldham is just now executed in the Market-place: It was believed Corporal Ashton and others would be reprieved, but is sent to Execution. Lieut. Oldham did confess, that such a Plot was propounded, and that he had an Inclination to it, through some, upon Disappointment of some Preferment he expected of a Captain's Place; and that he was wrought into it by keeping ill Company in Taverns, &c. He said now, such a Plot was fully resolved upon, but cleared this City and Citizens, for having any thing to do in it. Corporal Ashton said little, Mouldsworth and Baker that were Prisoners at War, and found principal Contrivers of the Business, are referred to the General.

Chester, 6. Sept. 1648.

Letters from York say, 100 Scots came from Knaesborough. Lt. Gen Cromwel is it pursuit of the Enemy; Major Gen. Lambert marches in the Rear; Col. Lesley is ordered to be at Helmsley, &c.

From the North, or more particularly from York, is thus written: There came last Night from Knaesborough 100 Scots Prisoners that the Country had taken up: Lieut. Gen. Cromwel lay last Thursday Night at Durham, and the last Night at Newcastle, and is in Pursuit of the Enemy, who is supposed to be about Carlisle and Berwick, and about 6000 strong at the most; Major Gen. Lambert marches in his Rear some two Days March, and Gen. Lambert was in the Town on Thursday, and took Horse after his Men that Day: Col. Lassels, by Order from the Committee, is drawn off from the Army, and lay at Helmsley on Wednesday Night, and marched on Thursday to Thursby, and so on to Scarborough, and I hope by Monday we shall be possessed of the Town, for they are resolved to storm it. Col. Bethel is Commander in Chief of that Party, with his own Regiment of Horse, and Col. Lassel's and Col. Legard's Regiment of Foot, and a Commanded Party of Foot out of Hull; they have some three Field-pieces with them. There are 300 Walloons landing at Scarborough by the Prince's Ships to strengthen them, but it no whit discouraged our Men, for at Pontefract the Men run very fast away from the Castle.

300 Walloons landed at Scarborough.

York, Sept. 9. 1648.

Tuesday, Sept. 12. 1648.

A Humiliation Day for a Blessing upon the Treaty.

This was Humiliation-Day for a Blessing upon the Treaty: There Preached before the Lords at St. Martins in the Fields, Dr. Burgesse and Dr. Gouge; and before the Commons at St. Margarets Westminster, Mr. Marshal and Mr. Horton.

Lieut. General Cromwel was about Durham Sept. 8.; The Enemy's cruel Plundering.; Monroe resolved to fire the Coal Pits.; Two Posts came to call him in to Scotland.; Marq. of Argile was 4000 strong. Sacrament not to be administred for a year Monroe marching the nearest way to Tweed, almost forgot his Plunder.; The revolted English were refused shelter at Berwick.

From Newcastle it is thus written: 'Lieutenant-General Cromwel was with his Army the 8th of September about Durham, which was a Day of Thanksgiving for the great Deliverance for these Parts, and were resolved forthwith to go on against the remaining Enemy, who hath left in the Bishoprick as ill a Savour behind them as can well be imagined, plundering like Devils, terrifying the People, wounding divers, taking away the Children of others to get Money for the redemption of them; besides Quarter, they had of divers 3l a House, and of those that cry'd up the Army of Duke Hamilton as the great Restorers, who finding such Usage and such Civilities from the Parliament's Party, it's believed, will go near to sacrifice to them. Saturday last Monroe held a Council of War at Morpeth, and resolved to march back to the Coal-pits and fire them all, to augment the Price of Scotch Coal, and advance Navigation; but Sunday Morning two Posts came speeding to have him come presently back into Scotland, a good Pretence for his running away, for the Presbyterian Ministers had good hold of the Civil Sword, made the Noble Marquis of Argyle General, were 4000 strong, and much too hard for the new-levied Forces of Lord Lanerick, who are afraid of the Ministers new Sword more than all their Excommunications, and yet have they proceeded to many notable Decrees to pass by others: One, That in regard of the great Defection to the Covenant throughout Scotland, they will not administer the Sacrament of the Supper for one Year to come. This ill Tidings saved our Coal-pits, and sends the Scots the nearest way over Tweed, in such haste, that they had almost left their Pluder behind them, had they not preferred it before Life: And thus are the Lads shifted once more out of England towards Kelsey, leaving the Confederate English by the way of Mortham to shift for themselves, who quartered in Banburgh Hundred near Berwick. Being thus deserted they repair to Berwick for safety from the Parliament Forces; but the Governour Lodowick Lesley tells them plainly, He could not let them in, having not Provisions: From whence it was hotly reported, and may come into it in time, That by the Detection of the Marquis of Argyle, upon his Peril, he should hold that Place for the Parliament of England.

Sir John Fenwick plunder'd to the value of 2000l.

Lieutenant-General comes hither tomorrow.

In Northumberland many were plundered to great Values, among others, Sir John Fenwick, from whom was taken his best Moveables, his Damage valued at 2000l. The Sheriff of Northumberland had his Share also. Lieutenant-General Cromwel will come hither to morrow, and Lodgings are provided for him; and so forward his Forces are gone over Tine, not Meat for a Regiment being left in all Northumberland.

Major-General Lambert goes by the way of Carlisle, many Countrymen go with him, and the Lieutenant-General likewise, to seek their Goods and Cattel carried into Scotland.

Lambert, with the Lieutenant General, &c. goes to seek their Goods in Scotland.

Wednesday, Sept. 13. 1648.

Voted 100l. per Annum the least to any Minister for his Benefice.

The Commons this day, according to former Order, resumed into a Grand Committee, to consider of the Ordinance for Sale of Deans and Chapters Lands, and palled this Vote, 'That 100l. per Ann. should be the least Allowance for any Minister's Benefice.

Correspondency with Foreign Protestants.

A Paper was presented for a Clause to be inserted, That some competent Allowance be made, to maintain Correspondency with Foreign Protestants.

Letters from York Committee, that they must storm Pontefract, &c.

Letters were read from the Committe of York, That the Treaty about Pontefract not taking effect, they must storm; 20000l. was desired for Supply of the Soldiers; the Commons Ordered, 'That 12000l. should be advanced for them by the Committee at Goldsmiths-Hall.

Another Petition, to mind the former Reasons, &c.

Those from the City, who had no Answer to their Petition on Monday, offered this Day another Petition to the Commons, earnestly praying, That they would be pleased to reassume the Considerations of the whole, and every Part of their former Petition, before they proceed in the Treaty with the King. The House did nothing in it.

To apprehend such who stayed in the City contrary to Order of Parliament, &c.

The House then Ordered, 'That one Capt. Bethan should be appointed Provost-Marshal, who should have Power to apprehend all such Persons who stayed in the City, and twenty Miles distance, contrary to the Ordinance of Parliament in that behalf. He hath likewise Power to seize upon all Ballad Singers, Venders of Malignant Pamphlets, and to send them to the several Militia's, to the end they may be proceeded against according to the said Ordinance: He likewise hath Power to suppress Stage-Players.

The Commissioners set forward wish Propositions to His Majesty to Wight Isle.

The Commissions that were to attend His Majesty had their Instructions this Day delivered them in the House, with the Propositions presented to His Majesty at Hampton-Court, who presently after took their Leave of the House, and set forwards toward the Isle of Wight, intending to be with His Majesty on Fryday.

A false Report of the Commissioners stopt.

A Report was spread in the City, That the Commissioners were stopped by some Soldiers in the way, but very false.

Maintenance for the new Militia's.

The House considered how the new Militia's of the North may be maintained, and the House passed several Orders for the Maintenance of them out of the Compositions of such who were in this last Rebellion in the North, and out of the old Arrears of the Sequestrations of Papists in those Parts.

Thursday, Sept. 14. 1648.

The D. of Richmond, &c. kissed his Majesty's hand, who gladly received them.

This Day the Houses fate not, but the Committee at Derby-house met, and some other Committes of both Houses; to whom Letters came, 'That the Duke of Richmond, and most of the Lords, Ministers, Lawyers and Gentlemen, nominated in the Lift to attend the King upon the Treaty, are with the King, and kissed His Majesty's Hand: The King told them, that He was glad they were admitted to be with him in the Treaty: His Majesty appointed them all instructions about him, The Commissioners from the Parliament are expected daily.

1500 old Soldiers are join'd to march with Lesley to Argyle. &c. Monroe sent a Guard to Edinburgh.

'From the North we had farther, That 1500 old Soldiers are joined to march with David Lesley to the Marquis of Argyle, who is 2000 in the Hills of Scotland. The Committee is disturbed with Petitions; Monroe has dispatch'd a Guard to Edinburgh; The English Cavaliers were about Banbuge Hundred near Berwick; but Lieut. Gen. Cromwel hath allarm'd them, and taken some Prisoners; the Inhabitants of Carlisle Petition the Governour to let in no Soldiers, neither Scots nor English.

Lieut. Gen. has taken some English, &c. Inhabitants of Carlisle Petition the Governour, &c.; His Excellencys Treat at Ipswich.

'This Day came Letters, that His Excellency the Lord Fairfax was gallantly entertained by the Inhabitants of the Town of Ipswich; and Mr. Edgar's Speech to the General by Order of the Town, worth the reciting. His Excellency removed thence to Yarmouth, the Town sent out three Aldermen to meet His Excellency, and gave him loving Entertainment, agreeing to the Admittance of three Troops of Horse, and a Company of Foot to quarter there. From thence the General removes to Norwich, and from thence to S. Edmondsbury in Suffolk where the Head-Quarters of the Army are intended to be kept.

Mr. Edgar's Speech to the General.

Mr. Edgar's Speech at Ipswich to the Lord Fairfax.

May it please your Excellency,
The Bailiffs, Burgesses, and Commonalty of the Town of Ipswich, do first render their humble Thanks unto Almighty God, and their Acknowledgment to your Lordship, for freeing them from the Fears and Dangers of theirs and the Nations Enemies.

The Bailiffs &c. Acknowledgments for freeing them from the fear and danger of the Nation's Enemies.

My Lord, they are very sensible of their weak Powers, the more for want of Notice of your Approach to gratify such high Deservings, as your Lordship hath merited at their hands; and have just Cause to think themselves unacceptable to you in that particular.

But the Nobleness of your Mind and Disposition do encourage; your Lordship will measure their Intentions by their Endeavours, rather than by their weak Actions, or short Retributions.

My Lord, Justice and Fortitude are eminent in you, and that as they ought to be in Degree and Order, the one as superior, and the other as subordinate. The Philosophers had a great Debate, which was the most cordial Virtue, and upon a full Result, it was given unto Justice; and as Fortitude was put into Composition, Answer was given, That Fortitude without Justice was nothing; and that if all Men were fast, there need no Fortitude; but Fortitude is requisite to maintain and support Justice. The Splendor of your Valour is the Justice of your Cause, namely, Religion and Laws.

The Town desirous to manifest their great Joy of his Lordship's Presence, &c.

My Lord, The Town are desirous to manifest these three Things; First, their humble Thankfulness to your Lordship; Next, the high Esteem of your Honour and Virtues; And then, the great joy of your Person and Presence, who God, no question, for your great Care of Divine Worship and Honour to him, and your sincere love of Justice toward Men, hath raised to such Eminency of Renown at home and abroad, which is the more illustrated by your Qualification of Humility, in attributing your Success only to the hand of God.

My Lord, This is a time of Action and not of Words, and I dare not be so bold as to spend your Time, and abuse your Patience with much Speech, nor am I urged thereto; for the Town hath given me but two Things, and those in two Words, to present unto your Lordship, namely, Their humble Thanks for your Favours already obtained; and then, Their humble Desires for the Continuance of them for the time to come; which if your Lordship will vouchsafe, they shall pray to the God of Power to intreat your farther Honour and Happiness.

My Lord, This Nation, and this Town, do more look upon your Lordship as the Harbour of Repose, for this Weatherbeaten Ship of the Commonwealth, and do believe, by God's Blessings upon you, they shall receive a blessed Peace; which the God of infinite and boundless Mercy grant to this so sinful and unthankful Nation.

Friday and Saturday, Sept. 15, 16. 1648.

We gave you before some Account of the Lord General's Motions from Colchester to Ipswich, Yarmouth, and towards Bury in Suffolk. Since came an Express farther as followeth: "His Excellency went from Colchester the 5th of this instant to Maldon, to view the Situation of the Place, where there yet remains some Reliques of the Roman Industry.

Ld. Gen. Viewing of Maldon, &c.

His viewing of Mersey Island and Fort.; He came to Harwich, order'd keeping Guard, &c.; He went to Langer-Point, which Commands the Mouth of Harwich, &c.; He went to Ipswich, &c.; From thence he went to Alborough.; Then he went to Yarmouth. He put a Garison into the Town, &c.

He went thence to Mersey-Island, where he viewed the Fort, built for the Defence of the passage into Coin-River, and which was of great Advantage to us during the Siege of Colchester. The next day he came to Harwich, and gave Order concerning the keeping of the Guards, and to man the Works that are there made, and crossed the River to Langer-Point, which is a Place of great Strength, and Commands the Mouth of the Harbuor into the River at Harwich, as also at Mersey Island. The General was saluted with abundance of Ordnance; he marched on towards Ipswich that Night, being Thursday the 7th of Sep. where the Bailiffs and Magistrates met him a Mile out of Town, and received him with extrordinary Joy; and there was such Chearfulness and Alacrity in the People, as hath not been seen in any Place, since the Wars began. We march'd from Ipswich to Alborough, where His Excellency was very kindly entertained by one Esq; Bence, a Member of the House; which Place hath for its Security several Pieces of Ordnance, which he caused to be discharged. His Excellency marched from thence to Solbay, to view the Situation of that Place, which Commands a commodious Harbour; and quartered that Night at Yarmouth, where his Forces had been admitted the day before; the Bailiffs and Magistrates received him with very much Respect; the Town and Ships discharged above 100 Pieces of Ordnance, both at his coming in and going out: He gratified the Town in their Desires, seeing it was thought convenient for the publick Good, that a Garison should be put for a time in the Town, That Col. Desbrow should Command the Forces there. Their Entertainment was very noble and free; and the General desires with all Tenderness to proceed in the securing of that place, that the Fishing-Trade may not receive any Prejudice by the Soldiers being there, but that all Regard may be had to encourage them therein.

His Excellency treated at Sir John Wentworth's in Loving Land.

On Tuesday last, he came to Sir John Wentworth's House in Lovingland, where he had great Entertainment, and the greatest Varieties that are to be seen, for Ponds, Water-works, Groves, Conveniencies of Coy-Ducks, that are to be seen in the Kingdom of England. Yesterday we came towards Norwich, where the Sheriff of the County, the Mayor, Aldermen, and Sheriffs of the City, in their Scarlet Gowns, with the Trained-band of Horse and Foot, came out of the Town, and accompanied the General in, with extraordinary Expressions of their Joy in his coming thither; and feasted him, with all his Company, in an extraordinary manner; there appeared Love in a high Degree. Tomorrow His Excellency marches to Bury, which is intended for some time to be the Head Quarters.

Norwich. Sept. 14. 1648.

The Commissioners arrive in the Isle of Wight,; The Treaty begins on Monday Morning.

Letters this day from Newport in the Isle of Wight certifie, "That the Parliament's Commissioners came safe thither on Friday, His Majesty at Sir William Hodges, the Place appointed for Treaty, where are also attending the Lords and Gentlemen nominated by His Majesty to attend him in this Treaty; there is a good Correspondence on both sides, and the Treaty begins on Monday Morning for certain.

Lilly's Prediction about his Majesty, &c.

Mr. Lilly, in Page 15. of his late Book of Astrological Predictions, and Line 31. faith thus; And were his Majesty at liberty, it shews or threatens danger to his Person by inordinate Horsemanship, or some Fall from on high.

His Majesty's riding down a steep Hill, &c.

You shall hear part of a Letter from the Isle of Wight.

Sir
One thing foretold in Mr. Lilly's last Book, above the rest, is remarkable about the KING; who upon Tuesday last, as he was riding down a sleep Hill, his Bridle broke, and the Horse ran down with him, to the great Terrour of the Beholders; but God be praised, his exquisite Skill in Riding, (but Providence chiefly) preserved him.

Septem. 16. 1648.

Monday, Sept. 18. 1648.

The House sate not this day.; Lieut. General marched from Newcastle and Morpeth to Alnwick; Major General Lambert order'd to summons Berwick.; 1500 Cavaliers English, under Sir Thomas Tildesly. Monroe and Lanerick joined, being 8000. Argile lies at Hedington. These Scotch Parties are upon Treaty, &c.

The House fate not at all this day. From Lieut. General Cromwel out of the North, by Letters Sept. 14. is thus certified; "Monday we marched from Newcastle to Morpeth, Tuesday to Alnwick; we left our Guns behind us there, as knowing we can send for them at pleasure; we have sent a strong Party of Horse with Major General Lambert's, towards Belford, and with him a Summons to Berwick. The English Cavaliers under Sir Tho. Tildesly, being about 1500, lie on this side Berwick, as not being suffered to come in; it's believed they will come in if summoned. Monroe march'd through with 3000. and is joined with Lanerick, having 5000 more; Argile lies at Hedington, 12 Miles be-hither Edinburgh, with an Army of near 10000 Men; these Scotch Parties are upon Treaty, and it's believed will not fight; they lie within 4 Miles one of another, and most either fight or agree. Old Leven is possessed of Edinburgh-Castle: David Lesly is Lieut. General to Argile We find no Bread in this County, but shall have Bisket from Newcastle till new Corn come, which is upon the Ground in abundant measure, Lieut. Col. Ashfield is with us, with fix Companies of Major Gen. Skippon's Regiment; Col. Ashton is marched towards Carlisle, with the Lancashier Foot.

Old Leven possess'd of Edinburgh-Castle. &c.

Alnwick. Sept. 14, 1548.

Monroe is in Scotland &c.; The English under Tildesly and Blackstone are about Cullingham.; Lieut. Gen. and Major General Lambert, are about Alnwick. Col. White's and Hackers Regiments, lie about Ponefract, &c. Old Leven &c. have made the Committee of Estates to flie.; 'Tis reported the Governor of Berwick will deliver that Garison up to the Parliament.

From Major Gen. Lambert's Quarters of the same Date came thus: Monroe is certainly gone into Scotland, with all the Scots both Horse and Foot; and the English under Sir Tho Tildesy and Sir Will Blackstone, are about Cullingham, Ten Miles on this side Berwick in Northumberland: The Lieut. Gen. with all the Horse and Foot, except the Lancashire Forces, and the four Regiments of Horse with Major Gen. Lambert, are about Alnwick, and are marching up to the Borders, he having sent for these four Regiments, lying now about Durham, and Col. White's and Col. Hacker's, lying about Pontefract, to march up to him with all speed: It's conceived we may march into Scotland if there shall be need. I presume you have heard, that David Lesley, with old Leven and Argile, are in the Head of 8000 Horse and Foot about Edinburgh, and have made the Committee of Estates to flie, which is conceived to be the Cause of Monroe's speedy March into Scotland. It is true, that Lesley the Governour of Berwick would not admit any of the Scottish, or English Cavaliers to come into that Garison in their passage; and as it's reported, he now affirms, he always kept that Place, for the Parliament of England, and will deliver it into their hands. The latter I cannot report for certain, but something there is in it. The English Cavaliers both in Westmorland, and Cumberland, and Northumberland, are now in so staggering a Condition, they know not what to do, swearing they are bewitch'd, and will fight no more, and do daily disband, depart from their Colours, and shift for themselves. This Army's much discontented for want of Pay, having received none a long time, and find no Course taken to supply them; they have not a Peny to shoe their Horses, and have lost so many, slain, lamed, or tired out, in desperate and most difficult Service against the Scots, and in the long pursuit of them; abundance of our Horse-Soldiers are on Foot, and they see no Course taken to recruit them. They are very much troubled that the Parliament hath, since the routing of the Scots Army, given 40000l, of their Money to the Navy, and have taken no Care for their Supply, after all their Service and miserable Sufferings. They hear likewise, the Parliament is about to sell the Scots Prisoners to Merchants, but they hope they will be so just, if they do so, as to give them the Price of their Blood, which is their lawful Prize

The English Cavaliers of Westmorland, Cumberland, &c. daily disband.

Brandspeth, near Durham, 15. Sept. 1648.

Pontefract Siege continues.; Scarborough Town taken.

From York, by Letters 15. Sept. 1648. 'The Siege of Pontefract still continues. The Town and Castle of Scarborough, notwithstanding the blocking up, received from the Prince relief of Men, Victuals, and Ammunition; which put those before it upon Resolution to speed the gaining: They resolved to storm the Town, which was done by the Foot, to whom joined 400 Troopers, who did with Firelocks excellent Service. After some Dispute the Town was taken, four of the Assaulters killed, 18 of the Besieged, about 150 Prisoners, some Walloons, whom the Soldiers took for Irishmen, and put them to the Sword.

A Thanksgiving in Leicester Town, &c.; The Ld Grey feasted all his Officers, being 150.; Col. Martin gone toward Lieut. General.; Duke Hamilton will not discover, &c.

From 'Leicester by Letters thus, 'Thursday last, Sept. 14. we kept a Day of Thanksgiving in this Town with much Joy and Alacrity, for the great Success against the Scots, it being in our apprehension no less than a clear Foundation, or a Forerunner of a good and lasting Peace: After the Sermons my Lord Grey feasted all his Officers, being about 150. with great Rejoycings, each engaging to other, never to decline their first Undertakings with his Lordship, but to hazard all that was dear unto them (if occasion be) in prosecution of a good, firm, and wellgrounded Peace; wherein Liberty and Property may be ascertained to Posterity, and all necessary particular Goods provided for in ample manner. Colonel Martin is gone hence towards Lieut. Gen. Cromwel: The Parliaments Commissioners are gone to Ashby-de-la-Zouch, to speak with Duke Hamilton; who, it's apprehended, will not discover any thing that concerns this Kingdom, but rather blame those of his own Country.

Tuesday, Sept. 21. 1648.

Letters from the Commissioners of Parliament.

Letters were this Day read in the House of Commons, from the Parliaments Commissioners and others, of the Reception and Beginning of the Treaty with His Majesty; some Particulars in the Passage of our Commissioners thither, were also farther certified to this purpose:

Commissioners invited by the Mayor of Southampton &c.

'Friday last the Commissioners of Parliament, coming to Southampton the Day before, had an Invitation by the Mayor and Aldermen of Southampton, to desire them to accept of a Breakfast, which was provided for them with great Respect; the whole Town expressing exceeding good Affections to the Parliament.

'That Day, the Passage. Boat to transport them being made ready, they were transported over to the Isle of Wight about Two in the Afternoon; and at that time they met a Vessel, in which was Mr. Parsons, whom His Majesty had sent with a Letter to the Parliament, for a Pass to be granted for the Lord Carnagy, Sir Alex. Gibson, and Sir John Carmichel, to be sent from Scotland to His Majesty, to treat of the Affairs of that Kingdom. Col. Hammond, the Governour, met the Commissioners at Cowes, where they were entertained with Vollies of Shot, and he attended them to Newport.

That day they were transported to the Isle of of Wight, &c.; Col.; Hammond met the Commissioners at Cowes.; Saturday the King caused a Fastto be kept, with the Lords, Bishops, &c.

'Saturday the King caused a Fast to be kept, with the Lords and the Bishops, Doctors, and the rest of the Houshold and Attendance, for a Blessing upon the Treaty. The Book of Common Prayer was exactly read, with the Litany and all other Parts thereof; and this Prayer following was added.

A Prayer drawn by His Majesty's special Direction and Dictates, for a Blessing on the Treaty at Newport.

A Prayer drawn by His Majesty's special Direction and Dictates.

O Most merciful Father, Lord God of Peace and Truth, We a People sorely afflicted by the Scourge of an unnatural War, do earnestly beseech Thee, to command a Blessing from Heaven upon this present Treaty, begging for the Establishment of a happy Peace. Soften the most obdurate Heart with a true Christian Desire of saving those Mens Blood for whom Christ himself hath shed his; or if the guilt of our great Sins cause this Treaty to break off in vain, Lord, let the Truth clearly appear who those Men are, which under presence of the publick Good, do pursue their own private Ends; That this People may be no longer so blindly miserable, as not to see at least in this their day, The things that belong unto their Peace. Grant this, gracious God, for his sake who is our Peace itself, even Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

The Commissioners acquaint His Majesty, they were come to Treat. Commissioners kiss his hand, and made short Speeches, &c.

Treaty put off till Monday.

'After the Exercise was over, and the KING returned from Sermon, The Commissioners went to His Majesty, to acquaint him with their Message from the Parliament, and that they were come to Treat.

The Commissioners kissed His Majesty's Hand, and made some short Speeches; His Majesty made a short Speech in Answer to them: That he was glad that they were come to treat with him, for the settling of his poor bleeding Kingdom in Peace, and desired God to perfect this blessed Work; prosessing, That he was in Charity with all of them, and not willing to seek Revenge against any, nor give occasion of Delays; desiring that there may be no procrastinating of Time, but that being only a broken piece of a Day., and the last Day of the Week too, he desired that the Treaty might begin at 9 of the Clock on Monday Morning, and from thence the Treaty to commence. Which was concluded accordingly.

Mr. Marshal and Mr. Vines preached before the Commissioners.

Sunday Mr. Marshal preached in the Morning before the Commissioners, and Mr. Vines in the Afternoon: The KING had the Book of Common Prayer, and one of his Doctors to Preach before him.

The King had the Common Prayer, &c. The King and Commissioners meet at Sir W. Hodges's.

Monday, Sept. 18. 'The King and the Commissioners met at Sir Will. Hodges's, and began the Treaty: The Commissioners first presented the Three Bills, for Religion, the Militia, and the Recalling His Majesty's Proclamations and Declarations against the Parliament: Hath not as yet returned a full Answer thereunto.

The House approve of the Committees Report.

According to former Order, the House this Day proceeded in the Report from the Committee of the Army, in relation to an Additional Establishment; and Ordered, "That the House approved of that part of the Report from the said Committee, in recruiting all the Regiments of the Army, to the full number of the old Establishment; and of what the said Committee of the Army should Order for the Payment of them accordingly.

Ordinance for Collecting Assessments, &c.

And because the former time is almost expired, in the Ordinance for collecting Assessments upon the several Counties of the Kingdom, they therefore Ordered, "That after the time is expired in the said Ordinance, it shall be renewed again for fix Months longer, and a Bill be brought in for that Purpose with all convenient speed.

The Committee of the Army order'd to make satisfactory Recruits of Horse, &c.

They farther Ordered, "That it should be referred to the Committee of the Army, to make Satisfaction for the Recruits of Horse, according to the former Order, in such manner as they shall think fit; and to make Provision of Cloaths, Shoes, 'and Stockings, according to the said former Order; and to pay for them in such manner as they should think fit.

That the Two Companies under Col. Hammond be paid 80l. per Week, &c.

The House Ordered likewise, "That the Two Companies raised by former Order of the House, under the Command of Col. Hammond, for the Service of the Isle of Wight, should be paid 80l. per Week, out of the 30l. per Diem formerly allowed for Supply of the King's Family, as formerly out of his Majesty's Revenue.

Thursday Morning the Committee of the Army to proceed in their Report.

They farther Ordered, "That the Committee of the Army should proceed in their Report on Thursday Morning next, and that no other Business intervene.

Sir Edward Walker's Letter to the House, &c.

Another Letter was read from Sir Edward Walker, certifying to the House, "That His Majesty desires, that Dr. Harvey, Dr. Wetherburne, with an Apothecary, a Chirurgeon, and others which he names, may be sent to the King to wait upon him; the House did nothing therein, because they did not receive any thing of it, either from the King or the Commissioners; if His Majesty either write, or desire them of the Commissioners, they will be sent down.

Order'd Col. Hammond's 20l. Salary be made 40l.

Upon Reports from the Committee of Derby-House, concerning Col. Hammond, of the present Extraordinary Charges he must of necessity be at during the Treaty, by the KING's removing to Newport; It was Order'd, "That his 20l. Salary, shall be made 40l.

The Reports of Goldsmith's Hall about Compositions.

The Commons this day had the Reports made to them, from Goldsmiths-Hall, of the Compositions with several Delinquents, which were approved of, and passed the House; viz. The Lord Scudamore's Composition at 3500l. Sir Jervis Scroop's, at 4500l. Mr. Daleson and his Son, 1300l. Mr. Jeff. Palmer, 500l. Mr. Sleeford, 700l. Mr. Martin, 850l. Mr. Atkinson, 600l. Mr. Thompson, 600l.

The House approved of the Committee of Norfolk, &c.

A Report was made to the House from the Committee of the Army, upon which the House passed several Votes; viz. "That they do approve of what the Committee of Norfolk did, in assisting the Army against Colchester; and that the Committee of the Army send them a Letter of Thanks for the same; also an Approbation of the Recruits of the particular Regiments, according to the old Establishment, and to pay them accordingly.

That the Committee of the Army bring in an Ordinance for continuing Assessments, &c.

Letters to be sent to all Counties, &c.

"That an Ordinance be brought in by the Committee of the Army, for the continuance of Assessments for the Army for 6 Months after the expiration of the last Ordinance.

'The Committee of the Army to bring in a Letter, for Copies to be sent into all Counties, for the more speedy, effectual, and orderly bringing in of the Assessments of the Army; and touching such Cases, wherein Deduction is to be made for free Quarter; That it be referred to the Committee of the Army, to satisfie for the Recruits of Horse, according to former Order, as they shall think fit; and that they make Provision for Cloaths, Shoes and Stockings, according to former Order, and pay as they shall think fit.

Mr. Scowen to make Report concerning the Army.

The House Ordered, "That Mr. Scowen should make further Reports concerning the Army on Thursday following, and that an Ordinance be brought in, from the Committee of the Army, on Saturday next, for the Assessments according to former Order, and the Assessments there in made.

The Committee bring in an Ordinance for Assessments, &c. His Excellency intends to be next Friday at St. Albans and the head Quarters to be there.

From the Head Quarters of the Army came thus; "The 15. His Excellency came to Thetford, the 16. came to Bury, the 18. to the Isle of Ely the 19. he goes to St. Ives, and thence to St. Albans, where he intends to be Friday next; and the Head Quarters to continue for some time there; Col. Barkstead's Regiment marches for the North.

Col. Barkstead's Regiment marches for the North.; His Majesty's Message, &c.

Wednesday, Sept. 20. 1648.

A Message this day came from His Majesty, dated the 15. at Newport, which the House of Peers sent down to the House of Commons, by Message: The Substance of the said Letter was, To desire a safe Conduct for Commissioners named therein to come from Scotland, and to return. The Commissioners Names were, The Lord Carnagy, Sir Alex. Gibson, Lord Clarke Register, and Sir James Carmichel, with their Attendants.

The House order'd the late Commissioners for Scotland to consider the said Persons, &c.

The House not knowing many of these Persons, or the Condition they were in at present, whether capable or not to attend His Majesty; they therefore Ordered, "That it should be referred to the Members of that House, that were late Commissioners in Scotland, to consider of the said Persons; and to report their Opinions concerning them tomorrow Morning.

The clerk of the Crown Issue forth a Writ on the Speaker's Warrant, &c.

The House was informed that Mr. Herbert Board, Burgess for the Town of Steyning the County of Sussex, was deceased; they therefore Ordered, "That the Clerk of the Crown should issue forth a Writ, upon Mr. Speaker's Warrant, for Election of another Burgess to serve for the said Place.

An Ordinance pass'd desiring the Lords Concurrence, for repayment of 10000l.

An Ordinance was read, for repayment of the Sum of Ten Thousand Pounds, formerly borrowed of some Citizens for the Service of His Majesty, and the Commissioners on both sides appointed to treat, which was read, and upon the Question, pass'd; and Ordered to be sent to the Lords for their Concurrence.

Some Instructions pass'd concerning Prince Elector's Salary, &c.

The House of Commons pass'd some Instructions, concerning the Prince Elector's Salary; "That His Highness may have it made up out of others Estates, for that which was allowed him, and is since disposed of.

Order for bringing in an Ordinance, for the general Militia of the Kingdom.

The Commons appointed a Day for bringing in the Ordinance for the general Militia of the Kingdom.

A Complaint of Factors in Holland, That counterfeit Gold is Coined in England, &c.

Several Letters came to the Lord Mayor of London, and other Merchants, from Factors and others in Holland, "That much counterfeit Gold was coyned in England, 10000l. transported thither, when melted, Worth not above 30s. an Ounce, yet not to be discerned but by Fire or Touch. The Lord Mayor by Industry finds out divers of the Actors; some are in Custody, others under Bail.

Prince of Wales receiv'd honourably at the Hague, &c.

From Amsterdam, Sept. 13. is thus written; "The Prince of Wales was fetched into the Hague with 30 Coaches, received by the Lord Rainsow in the Name of the States, and brought into the House where Ambassadors are usually entertained. After he had been feasted, he lodged at the Court of his Sister; he caused the revolted Ships to be brought in again to be rigged and victualled; by the Strength of the Prizes taken, it's conceived His Highness will abide in these Parts most part of this Winter.

Thursday, Sep 21. 1648.

Commissioners lately come from Scotland

The Commissioners lately come from Scotland, to whom the Consideration of the Persons mentioned in His Majesty's Letter was referred, made Report this Morning to the House.

Lord Carnagy denied safe conduct.

A Question being put, whether the Lord Carnagy, who was in Restraint as a Prisoner in this Nation, should have a safe Conduct according to His Majesty's Desire in his Letter, it was resolved in the Negative.

Sir Alex. Gibson denied safe Conduct, &c.

The House was likewise informed, That Sir Alex Gibson had been in actual Arms against the Parliament of England, and therefore no Reason to be admitted to attend His Majesty; The House hereupon resolved, "That the said Sir Alex. Gibson, should be left out of the safe Conduct; but Agreed, that a safe Conduct should be grained for the other Two and their Servants.

A Committee to draw up the Form of a safe Conduct, &c.

The House then appointed a Committee to draw the Form of a safe Conduct, and referred to them a Letter to be drawn up, and sent to His Majesty, in Answer to his of the 15th of this Month, for a safe Conduct, and to acquaint him with the Reasons why they cannot grant a safe Conduct for the said Carnagy and Sir Alex. Gibson.

A 1000l. order'd Mr. Barrington, whose House was fired in Colchester, &c.

A Petition was presented in the Name of the Mayor, Aldermen, and Inhabitants of Colchester; upon which the House Ordered, "That the Sum of 1000l. should be advanced, out "of the Estate of one Major Smith, who joined with the Enemy in Colchester, and was an Active Man against the Army, to Mr. Barrington, whose House was fired down to the Ground, because he was faithful to the Parliament and Army.

Order'd 500l. be paid Mr. wil. Jeffery for his Loss in Colchester &c.

The Petition of Mr. William Jeffery was read, complaining of his great Losses received by the Enemy in Colchester, during the time of the Siege; the House hereupon Ordered, "That the Sum of 500l. Should be charged, and paid out of the Estate of Mr. Roberts, who was there in actual Arms against the Parliament, in Satisfaction of his Losses.

From Ireland, Col. Jones and Col. Monk's Forces are marched into the Enemy's Countrey; Gen. Preston is opposed by Roe Oneale, &c.

From Ireland it is certified, "That the Forces of Col. Jones at Dublin, and of Col. Monk in the North of Ireland, are marched into the Enemy's Country, either to destroy, or to fetch in their Harvest, in which they had been much advantaged by the Division of the Enemies, had not the long immoderate Rain extreamly prejudiced them in their March. General Paston is much suspected and opposed by Roe Oneale, and it is believed, that rather than he will be over-powerd by him, he will unite himself to the Forces of the Lord Taffe, and the Lord Inchiquin; Col. Jones hath taken some strong Holds not far from Kilkenny

Col. Jones has taken some strong holds near Kilkenny

From Anglesey tis said, the Differences among the Enemies of the Parliament mightily advance.

From the Isle of Anglesey it is certified, "That the Differences amongst the Enemies of the Parliament do there mightily advance themselves; the Lord Buckley can by no persuasions be wrought upon to hold long in Friendship with the Lord Byron, who is now gone from Beau-Morris, though much against the Consent and Endeavour of the Lord Buckley's eldest Son, who had rather see them united than divided; the whole Island is in an Uproar, and Major Gen. Mitton with a strong Power is marching up to them, will suddenly either reconcile them, or consume them.

Friday, Sept. 22. 1648.

The House was formerly acquainted, that a Ship with 1500 Firelocks was driven into Dartmouth, which was referred to the Committee of the Navy, which Committee made a Report this day of matter of Fact; and the House thereupon Ordered, "That the 1500 Firelocks, or Barbary-Guns, with the said Ship, should be forthwith discharged.

That 1500 Firelocks or Barbary Guns and the said Ship be discharged from Dartmouth. An Ordinance passed, for allowing the Accompts of the Commissioners of the Excise. &c.; An Ordinance was this day read, for the allowing of Accompts of the Commissioners of Excise, from the Year 1645. to the Year 1646. which, upon the Question, passed; and Ordered to be sent to the Lords for their Concurrence. Order'd that such Persons as engaged in Tumults, be put out of all Office of Trust.; A Committee order'd to make Report with all Speed in the Petitions of the Widows of Ireland, &c.; An Ordinance Committed for Dr. Chamberlain to improve all Baths, &c.

The House this day considered of those Persons that had engaged in the late Tumults in the Associations; and Ordered, "That the said Persons, who had so engaged, should be put out of the Commission of Peace, or Deputy-Lieutenants of Counties, or Commissioners, or from being Commanders in the Employment of the Parliament.

The Widows of Ireland, who have lost their Husbands in the Service of the Parliament, their Petitions were this day considered of, and Ordered, "That the matter of Fact upon their several Petitions should be considered of by the Committee, where Mr. Anisley hath the Chair; and to be reported with all convenient speed.

Doctor Chamberlain this day offered to the House, that he might have the benefit of improving all Baths for 14 Years together, for the good of the People; and an Ordinance for this Purpose was read the second time and Committed.

The House Ordered, "That no private Business should be heard for 14 days together.

Saturday, Sept. 23. 1648.

The Sum of 150l. granted to Major Rolfe, &c.

The House Ordered, "That the Sum of 20l. formerly ordered to Major Rolfe for his false Imprisonment, should have the same made up 150l. and that this Sum be Charged upon the Arrears due to Major Gibs out of the Eastern Association.

The Declaration about the Court of Admiralty, &c.

They farther Ordered, "That the Declaration pass'd that House, concerning the Court of Admiralty, and sent up to the Lords, should be made only a Declaration of that House.

The Preamble to the Proposition, His Majesty desires may be respited, &c.

Several Papers this day came from our Commissioners in the Isle of Wight, some concerning the Treaty with His Majesty; giving an Account, That His Majesty desires, "That that Part of the Propositions, concerning the Parliament's being first necessitated to take up Arms, and whereby the Bloodshed in the three Kingdoms will be laid upon His Majesty and those that adhere to him in this War against the Parliament; may be respited till the end of the Treaty.

Commissioners desire they may supplied with the remaining 10000l.

A Letter came from the Commissioners, desiring that they may be supplied, with the remainder of the 10000l. as their Occasions shall require.

Order'd that 4000l. part of the 10000l. be paid the Commissioners, &c.

The House hereupon Ordered, "That the 4000l. part of the 10000l. advanced for the Service of the Treaty, should be paid to the Commissioners for the Treaty; according as their Necessities did require it.

The Clause in the Commissioners Letter be reported tomorrow.

That the Clause in the Commissioners Letter, concerning the Declaration and Proposition of both Kingdoms, should be reported on Monday Morning next.

'That a Letter of Thanks be written to the Commissioners of Parliament, to give them Thanks for their prudent Management of the Business of the Treaty, and to acquaint them with what the House hath done in relation to their Desire concerning the Accommodating them with Money, according as their Necessities shall require.

A Letter of Thanks to be sent to the Commissioners.; Several Propositions have been treated upon, &c.; The House debates on Monday, whether farther Instructions to be sent to the Commissioners, &c.

Little can be said farther of the Progress of the Treaty; several of the Propositions have been Treated upon, but none signed, nor it's conceived, will be, until they have gone through all the Propositions. The House debates on Monday, whether any farther Instructions shall be given to the Commissioners, touching the Preamble to the Propositions, which His Majesty desires may be laid aside, until they have Treated upon all the Propositions.

From His Excellency the Lord Fairfax's Head Quarters, now at St. Albans, come by Letters as followeth:

'His Excellency came to this Place on Thursday last, with a very small Train, so that there need not be any fear we shall streighten the Parts about the City in point of Provisions; we expect daily to have Letters out of the North, but none are come since the time that Lieut. Gen. Cromwel marched up the Tweed; where, if Berwick and Carlisle were not surrendred unto him for the use of the Parliament of England, according to his Demand, no doubt he is in Scotland at this hour; for he cannot besiege Berwick, (it standeth upon the other side of Tweed upon Scots Ground) unless he enter that Kingdom; and there is plenty of Provisions, of Corn especially, between Edinburgh and Berwick, which must either be sent or fetch'd to maintain the Leagure. We are apt to believe that the Lord of Argile and the Kirk do not dissimulate, in opposing Monroe and the remainder of Hambleton's Party; because they have declared to the World, wherein the Royal Party of their Nation have broken the Covenant in every Clause, and therefore certainly will not make themselves guilty of it too, by combining with them at last, we hope better things, which the next Post will more fully clear.

Two were lately condemned to die at Oxford, for attempting to betray that Garison, &c.

'There were Two lately condemned at Oxford by a Council of War, for attempting to betray that Garison; who casting Lots who should die, it fell upon him who was most free and candid in his own Confession; which some of the Assembly of Divines then at Oxford, and others, being much affected with the Courage of that Man, did mediate unto my Lord General for his Pardon.

At Yarmouth two condemned to die for deserting their Colours, &c.

'At Yarmouth there were two condemned this Week to die, for deserting their Colours, and running to the Enemy in Colchester, being both of Col. Barkstead's Regiment; the one is pardoned, and the other, Serjeant Gibson, is to die without Mercy. The Lord General hath sent Col. Rainsborough's Regiment towards the North, to be assisting in the Service there. This is all at present, &c.

St. Albans, Sept. 25. 1648.

Monday, Sept. 25. 1648.

A Castle or Fort to be erected in Yarmouth.

This Day a Letter was read in the House of Commons, from the Lord General, concerning the building a Castle or Fort in Yarmouth, for the better preservation of that Place; the House Ordered, That a Castle or Fort shall be erected, according to the Contents of His Excellency's Letter.

Committee to consider of Debenters of Soldiers.

A Committee was appointed to consider of the Debenters of Soldiers, whether any of them have been absent in that time of the Service, for which they have Debenters.

A Letter this Day came of the taking of Scarborough Town, which was signed by Col. Bethel and Col. Lassels, and a List of the Prisoners inclosed.

A Letter from Col. Bethel, and Lassels, &c.; The Prisoners left to the dispose of Col. Bethel and Lassels,

The House Ordered, 'That it shall be left to Col. Lassels and Col. Bethel, to dispose of the Prisoners in such Place of Strength thereabouts as they shall think fit; and that they examine them which have been in Arms against the Parliament, or have engaged never to bear Arms against the Parliament, to the end they may be brought to speedy Tryal.

A Bill of Attainder against Ld. Goring and Ld. Capel.

The House Ordered an Addition to the Committee, formerly appointed to draw up an Impeachment against the Lord Goring, and a Bill of Attainder against the Lord Capel; and Ordered, 'That this Impeachment and Bill be brought in on Thursday Morning next.

A worthy Member was added to the Committee for examining Duke Hamilton, &c.

An Addition was made to the Committee, for the Examination of Duke Hamilton, and the Prisoners of Kent. A worthy Member of the House was Ordered to go down about this Business, and to take the Papers concerning that Business with him.

The Committee of Derby-House ordered to give Colonel Ashton a Commission to be Major-General of Lancashire Brigade.

The House considered of the good Services performed by Col. Ashton, and Ordered, 'That the Committee of Lords and Commons at Derby-House should give him a Commission for being Major General of the Lancashire Brigade, and that 40 s. per diem be allowed him as Major-General, over and above the Pay of a Col, of Horse, and Col. of Foot.

They approve of Col. Overton, Governour of Hull, his relieving the Besiegers before Scarborough with Ammunition, and Ordered him to have 100 Barrels of Powder to recruit his Magazine.

They approve of the Governour of Hull's relieving the Besiegers, &c.

Major Gen. Brown acquainted the House with a Letter he had received from the Isle of Wight, signed by His Majesty; concerning the Reprieve of some Prisoners in Newgate. The Letter was as followeth:

A Letter from His Majesty to Major-General Brown, &c.

Charles R.
Trusty and well-beloved, we greet you well; We have lately received a Petition from Arthur Knight, our Servant and Haberdasher; wherein he expresseth, That two of his Sons are for Robbery lndicted and Convincted, and at present Prisoners in Newgate, expecting the Sentence of Death at the next Sessions and Gaol delivery there. Now although we shall not in any kind interrupt the course of Justice to pass on them, or any Offenders; yet out of Compassion to our Servant, who hopes they will for the future be reclaimed, We have thought fit to pray you, to use your best Endeavours to procure for them a Reprieve from Execution: And if it may be consonant to the due Proceedings in such Case, that Bail may be taken for their Enlargement; thereby to ease our Servant of the great Charge he is at, so as they may be answerable for their Fast, until such time at in our Clemency and Justice we may judge whether it may be sit to give them our Pardon: And this We do the rather, because We hear they have been Reprieved already. So recommending this Business to your Care and Judgment, We bid you farewel.

From our Court at Newport, this 20. of Sept. 1648.

To our Trusty and well-beloved Richard Brown, Esq; one of the Sheriffs Elect, of our City of London.

The Commons Ordered, 'That the said Prisoners be left to the Justice of the Law.

Order'd the said Prisoners be left to the Judges of the Law.

An Account was given of four Barges full of Scots Prisoners, that came from Windsor for Gravesend, to be put into Ships to be Transported.

Four Barges of Scots Prisoners from Windsor.; A Petition of Earl Lauderdale's Daughter.

The Lords received a Petition from the Lady Mary Maitland, Daughter to the Earl of Lauderdale in Scotland, about Goods seized on for her Father's Delinquency, which were to be sold. The Petition was to desire stay of Sale, because those Goods were left to her by the Countess of Hume her Grandmother. The Lords Ordered to hear the Business, and in the mean time, the Sale of those Goods to be stopped.

The Commons desire the Lords concurrence, &c.

The Commons sent up a Message to the Lords, for Concurrence to the Orders following; "That the Scribes of the Assembly do print the lesser Catechism, and to have the sole Benefit one Year.

The Lords concurrence for the Additional Months Assessment.

The Lords concurred to the Ordinance for the Additional 6 Months Assessments for the Army, which was Ordered to be Answered by their own Messengers.

Prince Elector's Ordinance agreed to.

The Prince Elector's Ordinance with the Names altered of the Committee, and some put in for those, whose Estates have been otherwise since disposed of, Concurred in.

Debate of the Militia of the Kingdom.

The rest of this day was spent upon the Debate of the Ordinance for the Militia of the Kingdom.

From the Lieut. Generals Quarters, &c.; Berwick yields not, but gives a fair delatory Answer.; The sad Condition of Northumberland, &c.; Monroe and Lanerick make 7500. whereof 2500 Horse.

Argile and his Friends not above 6000, &c.

From Lieutenant-General Cromwel's Quarters at Noreham near Tweed the 20th of Sept. instant came as followeth: "We have received a fair, but delatory Answer from Berwick; had they yielded, they would have put us to it, whether to have gone so soon over Tweed; but this Denial necessitates it, for other way we cannot block up the said Place: In relation thereto, and in pursuit of the Enemy, who lately made such Spoil in England we sent our Major General Lambert with three Regiments of Horse yesterday, and this day the Foot are to follow with the rest of the Horse and Carriages, all but two Regiments and one of Horse. The sad Condition of the County of Northumberland, and our Army in it, would make a Heart of Flint to melt: Neither Corn nor Cattel did the wretched Army of Monroe leave; insomuch that in the Head-Quarters, for divers days, neither Bread nor Drink was to be had, only a little Bisket; believe it, whatever they were in the South that called in such Catterpillers, the North Part gives them no Thanks. Monroe and Lanerick make 7500. whereof 2500 Horse; The Marquis of Argile and his Friends, not above 6000. and few Horse, and new raised Men, and so no way able to deal with the other, which calls us to their help clear, and gives us Opportunity to make good our Protestation to them, when in former Distress, though since evil requited; and to speak as we find, there are divers moderate spirited Men, whom we believe have no such Stings as are to be found in our own Kingdom.

Monroe has possession of Sterling-Bridge, &c.; A Treaty was agreed for fix Hours, &c.; Monroe, Contrary to Faith, fails upon Argiles Forces, &c.

'The Monroians have Possession of Sterling-Bridge, a very advantagious Place, and by which they do hold much the greater part of Scotland at their Devotion. The Marquis of Argile, Lord Leven, and David Lesley, are fix Miles on this side Monroe; there was a Treaty agreed for fix Hours, in which was debated, (as we are informed) Monroe's departing out of Scotland, having Indemnity for the Party; but like a good honest Turk, contrary to Faith, falls upon the Marquisses Forces, kills and takes 700 of them, Argile himself hardly escaping, one of Monroe's Soldiers having got him by the shoulders; had he been taken, it had been a great Loss. There have been with us, from the Marquis and his Friends now in Arms, Sir James Carro, and Major Strangham, who in the Name of those from whom they come, express much Affection to us; and say, they repent not, nor see the Cause, though they have opposed an Act of Parliament, when ours was but an Ordinance. We are in hopes to lay the Foundation of a lasting Love with the best of the Nation, which will do no hurt at our Return. Berwick is not strong with Men, nor is there Fireing for many Weeks; they seem to be willing rather to have the Argyle Party have it than we, but that must not be, nor do we think it will be a long Work: We have sent Colonel Bright and Scout-Master-General Roe to the Marquis of Argile, to consult about assisting of them, and which way will be best therein, from, whom we expect a good Account, being well perswaded, of the Discretion of ours sent.

Col. Bright sent to Argile to consult assisting him.

'The Lieutenant General hath published a Proclamation, upon his entring of Scotland, and is as followeth;

Lieut. Generals Proclamation as he entred Scotland.

Whereas we are marching with the Parliament's Army into the Kingdom of Scotland, in pursuance of the remaining part of the Enemy who lately invaded the Kingdom of England; and for the Recovery of the Garisons of Berwick and Carlisle: These are to declare, That if any Officer or Soldier under my Command, shall take or demand any Money, or shall violently take any Horses, Goods or Victuals, or shall abuse the People in any fort; it shall be Tried by a Council of War, and the said Person so offending, shall be punished according to the Articles of War, made for the Government of the Army in the Kingdom of England, which is Death: Each Colonel or other chief Officer in every Regiment, is to transcribe the Copy of this and to cause the same to be delivered to each Captain of his Regiment, and every said Captain of each respective Troop and Company, is to publish the same to his Troop or Company, and to take a strict Course, that nothing be done contrary hereunto.

Given under my Hand this 20. of Sept. 1648.

Cromwell.

Tuesday, Sept. 26. 1648.

The House called over, 150 absent, &c.

The House this day spent much time in Calling the House according to former Order; about 150 were absent, some employed upon special Service, others sick and not able to come, and therefore desired to be excused; about 23 the House excused not, yet pass'd no Fine of 20l. upon them, as falsly given out in another Sheet.

This day three Weeks the House to be called again, &c.

The House Ordered, "That this day three Weeks they should be Called again, and then they expected a greater Appearance; those that fail, to have a greater Mulct put upon them at the pleasure of the House.

His Majesty's Letter to the Lords, &c.

The Lords had a Letter read from the King, "That whereas His Majesty doth understand, That the Lord Carnagy, and Sir Alexander Gibson, who is Lord Clerk, are not in a Capacity to Treat, His Majesty doth therefore desire, That Sir James Kermitchel, (whom the Houses have approved of) may have a Pass sent for him to come to treat for Affairs of Scotland; and that Mr. Parsons may have a Pass, and be speedily dispatched.

Their Lordships Ordered to communicate it to the Commons.

An Irish Ship taken by the Warwick.;The Ld. Admiral gone to look out the revolted Ships, &c.

From the Navy came Letters, "That the Warwick Frigot hath taken an Irish Ship, and brought her into the Downs, laden with Tallow, Hides, and Merchandize, sent out from the Rebels towards Holland. The Lord Admiral is gone out with about 20 Sail, to set upon the revolted Ships about Goree Road in Holland.

From the Isle of Wight came Letters this day, of the Proceedings of the Treaty between His Majesty and the Commissioners of Parliament, to this Purpose:

The Proceedings of the Treaty began on Monday.

'The Treaty began Monday, September 18. and the two first Days were spent in laying 'down the Method that was to be observed throughout the whole Business, viz. That nothing should be binding on either side, but what should be expressed in Writing, and not that till the Conclusion of the Treaty.

Tuesday a Paper was delivered, containing the propositions,; A Debate which lasted 3 Hours.

'On Tuesday Night a Paper was delivered in, containing the first Proportions for recalling Oaths, Proclamations, &c. with a Preamble in these Words: Whereas both Houses of Parliament have been necessitated to take up Arms in their just and lawful Defence, &c. to which the KING consented by a Paper without the "Preamble; but the Commissioners finding the same short, farther insisted thereupon, which took up a large Debate of three Hours.

Wednesday many Arguments were used, but the King desired to consider.

On Wednesday, wherein many Arguments were used on both sides; and at length being very late, the KING desired, That, the weight of them might be farther considered on the morrow Morning: Yet notwithstanding,

'On Thursday they understood the King would not meet, desired by a Paper the Preamble might be a part of the Act of Parliament.

On Thursday they having Notice, That the KING would not meet, sent a Paper humbly desiring, That the Preamble might be a part of the Act of Parliament; to which the same Day was returned, That His Majesty would lose no time, endeavouring to settle a happy Peace; but nothing farther done in that, or any other thing, till Monday Morning the 25th of September, when the KING declared, That he doth consent to that Proposition, as was desired; which being done, great Hope is given to all Hearts, that this is the Forerunner of a happy Peace and Establishment. So the KING hath declared, That nothing of His particular Interest shall hinder the Progress of this Treaty.

The Commissioners Letters to the Parliament declaring His Majesty's Consent.

'Sir Peter Killegrew came also this Day, with Letters to the Parliament from the Commissioners at the Isle of Wight, advertising, That His Majesty had consented to pass the Preamble and Proposition for revoking all Declarations and Proclamations against the Parliament; and that a Bill Pass in Order to the Paper following, to that Purpose; it is still provided that nothing be binding, unless the whole be agreed upon, betwixt His Majesty and Parliament by this Treaty: The Paper follows:

"Whereas the Lords and Commons Assembled in Parliament have been necessitated to make and prosecute a War in their just and lawful Defence, and thereupon Oaths, Declarations, and Proclamations, have been made against them, and their Ordinance and Proceeding, and against others for adhering to them, and for executing Offices, Places, and Charges by Authority derived from them; and Judgments, Indictments, Outlawries, Attainders, and Inquisitions for the Causes aforesaid, have been had and made against some of the Members of the Houses of Parliament and other His Majesty's good Subjects, and Grants have been made of their Lands and Goods:

"Be it therefore declared and hereby Enacted, by the KING'S Majesty, and by the Lords and Commons Assembled in Parliament, and by Authority of the same; That all Oaths, Declarations, and Proclamations, heretofore had or made, against both or either of the Houses of Parliament, or any of the Members of either of them, for the Causes aforesaid, or against their Ordinance or Proceedings, or against any for adhering to them, or for doing or executing any Office, Place or Charge, by any Authority derived from the said Houses or either of them;

"And all Judgments, Indictments, Outlawries, Attainders, Inquisitions, and Grants thereupon made, and all other Proceedings for any the Causes aforesaid, had, made, done, or executed, or to be had, made, done, or executed; whether the same be done by the KING or any Judges, Justices, Sheriffs, Ministers, or any others, are void and of none Effect, and are contrary to and against the Laws of this Realm.

"And be it farther Enacted and hereby Declared by the Authority aforesaid, That all Judges, Justices of the Peace, Mayors, Sheriffs, Constables, and other Officers and Ministers, shall take Notice here-of; and are hereby prohibited and discharged in all time to come, from awarding any Writ, Process, or Summons, and from pronouncing or executing any Judgment, Sentence, or Decree, or any way proceeding against, or molesting any of the said Members of the Two Houses of Parliament, or any of the Subjects of this Kingdom for any the Causes aforesaid.

Farther, by Letters from the Quarters of Lieutenant General Cromwell, the 29th of September came as followeth:

Letters from the Quarters of the Lieut. General, &c.; And of Monroe's Endeavours to raise Men, to continue the Troubles, &c.

"There hath come hither from the Marquess of Argile, Lord Louden, Levin, and others, the Lord Gramond, and Major Straugban, who acquainted the Lieutenant General, with their dislike of the Army, of Duke Hamilton's coming into England, also of Monroes endeavouring to raise Men to continue the said Troubles between the Nations; desiring the English Assistance against them. The Lieutenant General calls a Council of War, returns Answer, that he will give them Assistance, and professes with all heartiness, to be ready to join with them against Monroe, &c. desiring nothing more, than the subduing and rooting out of Trust all loose Persons, and such as are Enemies to Goodness and good Men; assuring them, that in his Income he will deny himself and his Soldiers that, which he would take in England and that the Enemy once subdued, and the English Towns delivered or gained, he will return: And as he believed God gave him and those under his Command Victory over the Duke's Army, thereby to make way for his Assistance of the faithful in Scotland, so he shall perform the same with all Cordialness; and desires that the Letter he now sends may be kept as a Testimony against him, and those under his Command, if they do not, as a Brand of their Hypocrisie for ever.

This Treaty betwixt Monroe and Argile, is expressed before in the Margin.

'The Forces of Monroe and Argile being near Sterling-Bridge, a Treaty is set on Foot, in which the Marquis intended to. offer them, That if they would lay down Arms, deliver the English Towns, and desist they should not be medled with as to Life or Estate, behaving themselves quiet. The Treaty was begun, but Monroe, (contrary to Promise) set upon the Marquis's Forces at Sterling, and got the Bridge: The Marquis sends to have the Men so basely fallen upon and taken, when their hands were bound by Treaty, but they returned none; the English will go against them, but they being to the North, it will not be possible to engage them.

The Lords approve of the Lieut. Gen. entering that Kingdom, &c.

The Lords consider of the present State of the Lieutenant General in Scotland, and of his going in; and Vote, 'That they approve of his entring that Kingdom, according to the Direction of the Committee of Derby-House, and that if those who did not approve of Duke Hamilton's coming desire his Assistance, he may give it unto them.

The English deserted by Monroe, are gone several ways, &c.

From Newcastle was certified, "That the English that were deserted, by Monroe, are gone several ways, the Officers or Persons of Quality being about 100, about 80 of them gone from Berwick in a small Vessel beyond Seas, among whom is Sir John Morley, Colonel Grey, Major Hoborn, young Salkeild, and others; the rest gone towards Carlisle.

Wednesday, September. 27. 1648.

This was Fast Day, Mr. Ash Prayed, and Mr. Reynour and Mr. Arthur Preached, &c.

This was the Fast-Day, Mr. Ash prayed in the Morning before the Commons, and Mr. Reyner and Mr. Archur preached.

The Commons met after the Sermons, and Ordered to give them Thanks, and that Doctor Temple and Mr. Barker be desired to preach before them the next Monthly Fast, and Mr. Green to pray.

Thursday, Sept. 28. 1648.

Both Houses approve the Lieut. Gen. entring Scotland, &c.

A Message this day came from the House of Peers, desiring the Commons Concurrence to two Votes of that House, upon the last Letter from Lieutenant General Cromwell, reported from the Committee at Derby House; viz. "That that House approved of what Lieutenant General Cromwell had done, in pursuing the Enemy into Scotland, according to the Order of the Committee of Derby-House, and that they approved and confirmed the said Order; That a Letter should be writ to Lieutenant General Cromwell, to desire him to prosecute his Victory so as to secure the South, and to pursue the Enemy into Scotland, as he may take all Advantages of them, for the regaining the Garisons of Berwick and Carlisle, which are unjustly detained from this Nation contrary to Covenant, and the large Treaty between the two Nations. A Letter to this Purpose was read, which with the said Votes were Assented unto, and Ordered to be speedily sent into Scotland to the Lieutenant General.

The House Ordered "That no Business concerning the Treaty should be considered of, but between the Hours of 10 and 12.

Col. Monk's Letter beating Major-General Monroe, &c.

'A Leter this day came from Colonel Monk, falling upon the Scots Quarters in Ireland, who were drawing out under Major General Monroe, to join with his Nephew Monroe's Forces in Scotland, and that he had taken Carickfergus (or Knock-Vergus as falsly printed) and Belfast, and had Major General Monroe and all his Forces Prisoners, and was now advanced against Colraine the third Garison of the Scots, and doubted not to carry that likewise.

Order'd a Letter of Thanks to Col. Monk, &c.

The House hereupon Ordered, "That the Sum of shall be bestowed upon Colonl Monk for this extraordinary Service: That a Leter of Thanks should be writ to him and his Officers and Soldiers, for their great Gallantry in this Service.

That he be made Governour of Belfast &c.; The next Lords Day the Ministers of Westminster, &c. give Thanks to God for this great Mercy.

'That Colonel Monk shall be made Governour of Belfast, and that the Committee of Derby-House should grant him a Commission accordingly, and confer with Colonel Monk, concerning a Governour for Carickfergus, and that the said Committee consider of an established Pay for the laid Forces. That on the next Lord's Day all the Ministers in London, Westminster, and the late Lines of Communication shall give Thanks to God for this great Mercy, of surprizing the said Garisons, and taking the Scots Prisoners.

Friday, Sept. 29. 1648.

An Ordinance that the Three Judges of the Admiralty be allowed 500l. a piece yearly, &c.

An Ordinance was this Day read, for settling upon the three Judges of the Admiralty the yearly Stipend of 500l. a piece, to be paid to them out of the Receipt of the Customs of the Kingdom.: A Proviso was offered to be added to the said Ordinance, viz. Provided that the said Judges do not take any Moneys, of any Person or Persons whatsoever upon any Pretence whatsoever. This Proviso was consented unto, and Ordered to be added to the Ordinance.

The Lords agreed to the declaratory Vote, &c.

The Lords agreed this Day to the declaratory Vote, 'That nothing shall be binding betwixt KING and Parliament, till all be concluded upon the Propositions: They agreed to the Vote for adding 120l. more per mensem to Hospitals, for the better maintenance of the maimed Soldiers.

They agreed to adding 120l. a month to hospitals.; The House order'd Mr. Ashburnham to come and prosecute his Composition.

The House Ordered, 'That Mr. Ashburnham should have liberty to return into this Kingdom, to prosecute his Composition at Goldsmiths-Hall, provided he compleat the same within two Months next after the Date of this Order.

Saturday, Sept. 30. 1648.

An Ordinance for auditing the Arrears of reduced Officers.

The House of Commons took up much time in Debate of an Ordinance, for auditing the Sum of 100000l. for and towards the Pay of the Arrears of several reduced Officers contained in three Lists, whose Accompts are audited and presented to the House; this Ordinance being large was read the first time, and ordered to be read the second time on Thursday Morning next.

The House was informed, That the Committee of Haberdashers-Hall going to seize upon the Estate of the Earl of Lauderdale, who lately advanced with the Scots Enemies to invade this Nation, as a Delinquent; a File of Musqueteers was set as a Guard, to oppose any that should come for that Purpose, by whom of the City is not yet known.

Order'd that the Guard in opposing the Committee of Haberdashers Hall be Secur'd.

The House hereupon Ordered, 'That the Committee of the Militia of London should be required forthwith to secure the said Guards, and to give an Account of this Business to the House with all speed.

A Report was made to the House of the Lord Admiral's drawing out, to fall upon the revolted Ships, to whom, he had the second time offered Indemnity: The Prince returned Answer, That if his Lordship pleased, he would give his Lordship the same Terms, if he would come in by a certain Time.

A Member and another Gentleman affronted in the City.

A Member of the House this day informed the House, That himself That himself and another Gentleman, coming yesterday out of the City, were affronted by three Gentlemen, who very well knew the said Member, calling him by his Name: Two of them drew their Swords, and sell on him, the Third had a Dagger to stab him, but by great Providence and Courage, he gave them a Repulse.

Col. Rainsborough set upon by 3 of the King's Party.; A Member acquainted the Committee of Derby-House that certain of the King's Party had combined, &c.; A Captain of the Army was killed in London, &c.

Colonel Rainsborough, it was also informed, was likewise set upon by three of the KING'S Party between London and St. Albans, he having a Captain in his Company; the Cavaliers seeing their Gallantry and Resolution, put Spurs to their Horses and rode for it, and being extraordinary well mounted over rid them. A Member of the House likewise acquainted the Committee of Derby-House, and the Speaker, That there were certain of the KING's Party, who had combined to massacre Fourscore of the Members of the House of Commons, who as they said, opposed the Treaty in the House; and gave a Note of Four of their Names. A Captain of the Army was likewise killed in London, and a Major the last Week.

A Petition of Thousands from Oxon, &c.

A Petition was presented to the House, in the Name of many Thousands of the County of Oxon, shewing their Approbation of the large Petition in the Name of may Thousands of the City of London, City of Westminster, and Parts adjacent, and the great Danger the Kingdom is in at this time; desiring that those that have ever adhered to them, and ventured their Lives and Fortunes in this great Cause, may not perish suddenly, while the Destroyers cry, Peace, Peace, but seek aster Blood; and that they would return to their first Principles, and not fall from the good Work of God, that God's Wrath may be appeased, the Enemies of him and his People be subdued, their Friends reconciled, which will be like Life from Death, to this poor dying Nation, and so by this means a well-grounded Peace established. The House being upon other great Affairs, deferred the farther Debate hereof till another time.

His Excellency's great Care in satisfying the Country, &c.; The shortness of the Soldiers Pay, &c.

From the Head-Quarters at St. Albans, by Letters September 29. is thus certified; "There hath little of Concernment happened here since the last Post. His Excellency takes all the Care he can to satisfie the Country that undergoes the great Burthen of free Quarter, Complaints coming daily concerning the same; and that which adds to Affliction is, That the Soldiers are not paid, whereby to enable them to discharge their Quarters; some Regiments having not one Penny Pay these eighteen Weeks past, and none having had above one Months Pay in all that time, except the two Regiments which were in Kent; and the Soldiers begin to be much discontented, that the Fault should be imputed unto them, for not satisfying for what they have in Provisions, whenas they have been so ill paid; it is very much feared, if some speedy Course be not taken herein, neither the Country nor the Soldier will with Patience long undergo the same.

This Letter to the Gen. about Scotland, much to the Effect at before.

'His Excellency had Letters out of Scotland, where Lieutenant General Cromwell is with the Army, informing of the good Correspondency betwixt the Earl of Argile's Army and ours; and that Monroe was possest of Sterling-Bridge, hoping thereby to increase his Army; but it's conceived, it will rather lessen their Number.

The Scotch Prisoners passing this way to be shipt, Curse to. Hamilton, &c.

'There pass'd some Scots Prisoners this way, going to be ship'd for beyond the Seas: Most of them Curse Duke Hamilton; some of them who escaped, when they came to beg, made as is they were dumb, making Signs for Bread, least their Language should discover them: But being press'd upon, That they were Scotchmen, they began to speak as fine English as they could, saying they were Yorkshire Men; many of them are gone to London, where they, with others escaped from Colchester, and their Convoys, may be ready to join together and do Mischief, is not timely looked to.

Two Letters came to the General, that two Cavaliers designed to stab him, &c.

'Two Letters came this day to the General from good hands, That there was a Design, that two Cavaliers should stab him, during his Residence at St. Albans: Another from France came this Week to His Excellency to the same Purpose; and the Party is in England, and upon his Journey from France, that first discovered it.

Sept. 30. 1648.