State Papers, 1656: December (2 of 6)

December (2 of 6)

Copy of the answer of the court at Hamburg.

Dec. 15, 1656. [N. S.]

Vol. xlv. p. 55.

The court consulting the resident's proposition, ordered this answer following to be returned: that the company do hope the dutiful deportment of the brethren of the company towards his highness and the state will be such, that there shall be no occasion of giving assistance, or bringing of any of them unto punishment. However in case any amongst them shall become an offender, and his crime shall be made known unto them, they shall readily testify their duty to his highness and the state, in proceeding against such offender, according to the rule of their charter and orders.

A letter from a friend in Spain to his friend in the West Indies concerning the king of Spain's orders to his governors there to send relief for Jamaica.

In the possession of the right hon. Philip lord Hardwicke, lord high chancellor of Great Britain.

En 17 deste llego a mis manos un pliego de v. m^d su sha en 19 de Septiembre del año pasado en caminado por Cartaxena por mano de don Gonçalo de Herrera mucho mealegre de sauer dela salud de v. m. y toda su cassa que en la mia se estima en mucho y luego a nuestro señor le de los à crecentamientos que merece y yo deseo las cossas de esa isla nos tiene por aca confusos pues a tantos tiempos no a venido nauio de alla yel ultimo que entro sue de Gabriel de Castellanos con quien escrivi a v. m. y le entregue un pliego grande abisarame si le reciuio.

Espero en nuestro señor que con las prevenciones que tenia dispuestas el señor pressidente conde de peñalua y con las que se abran aumentado con la llegada del señor don Felix de çuñiga estarà esa isla con las neçesarias para lo que se ofreciere y aora hauiendose tenido notiçias como el Yngles esta fortificado en Xamayca se enbian ordenes al Virrey de la Nueva España al pressidente de esa isla, a los governadores de la Hauana, Cuba, y Puerto Rico para que cada uno embie socorro para que con cabos y personas de esperiençia y soldados le hechen de a quella isla y teniendo su mag^d Dios le guarde entendido lo bien que à obrado y quedaua haziendo don Christoval Arnaldo de Ysassi, natural de Xamayca y que estaua en los montes retirado defendiendose de este tirano le a nombrado por governador de aquella isla doy a v. m. esta notiçia para que lo tenga a si entendido.

Mucho estimo el cuidado y solicitud de v. m. en orden a mis particulares y las noticias que me da de hauer ablado a todos los amigos y dado mis cartas y le suplico lo continue que como v, m. saue lo he trauaxado bien y deseo ver el premio y me espanto que don Geronimo de Aliaga no aya dado nada, a Pedro de la Rosa y suplico a v. m. de nuevo que de qual quier hacienda, o dinero que me aya de venir se sirua de entregarle hasta 100 pessos y tomar carta de pago por mi quenta dandoselo engeneros v. otra cosa que lo valga dando, a entender al dho Pedro de la Rossa, que lo que yo cobrare a qui se le dara ay o que me embie un poder nuevo para acabar de cobrar de don Joseph Martinez que ya saue el lo que es pues a v. m. como mi amigo y señor le embaraco en esto a quien suplico me abise de lo que huviere hecho en este particular asegurandole v. m. de mi proceder tendra por mano de v. m. satisfaction de lo que aqui se cobrare pues con esto se escusara el riesgo.

Recivi el pliego del señor chantre Juan Baaptista de Olivares y testimonio de la bacante del arzedianato lo qual queda presentado yel informe del señor pressidente en su abono yespero en nuestro señor conseguir esta preu^da para dicho señor y le dira vm. que 10 R^s de platta que dice hauer remitido, a Cartaxega no se an entregado a don Gonçalo de Herrera que sino lo huuiere hecho la persona à quien en cargo lo dexe y que selo entregue a v. m. y para quando seconsiga este negocio me ofrece 200 pessos que entonces dare orden para que v. m^d. los reçiva, y le dara v. m. la que va con esta tambien sabra v. m. como he sacado muchos despachos y mercedes a esa ciudad y emparticular quando su mag^d hizo mercedes a los que se señalaron quando el Ingles la quiso embadir que son demucha consideracion y como a v. m. le consta no he reciuido nada y en ellos tengo suplidos hasta oy mas de 100 pessos en los gastos hago reuerdo, a v. m. para que lo de aentender a los capitulares y a don Geronimo de Aliaga y al amigo damian del Castillo, que es muy mi amigo y señor y creo que por su parte hara lo possible para que se me remita.

Veo como hauia muerto el ayudante Christoual de Santiago, yo le hauia embiado una çedula derrecomendacion muy honrrada y sobre que el pressidente informase por sus hijos para plaças en esepresidio v. m. se siruira si fueren unicos ablarles para quel a solicitud de sus aumentos corran por mi mano y hacer recuerdo desta agencia por si pudieren hacer algo.

A don Luis Garauita remito en la que va con esta un despacho de su mag^d sobre una encomienda que tiene en Venezuela v. m. lebea y haga como amigo assi en esto como en los demas despachos que les tengo remitidos y a don Aluaro Garauity su hijo.

Del amigo don Gabriel de Boxas no he tenido cartas desde que v. m. llego a esta corte y com yo mehallo confuso de no hauer tenido, abissio ni razon de sus despachos y de lo que obre en ellos me es preciso hazer a v. m. este recuerdo para que selo diga.

De todos los amigos que residen en esa çiudad y que di a v. m. cartas en la occasion que se sue hasta oy no an llegado a mis manos respuestas si no es tan solo de don Diego Franco y el chantre Olivares digo esto como v. m. me dice en su carta que todos me responden.

A don Alonso de Ulloa canonigo le a promovido su mag^d a la thesoreria de Venezuela abra veinte dias.

Hasta sauer del señor cappⁿ don Balthasar Calderon nole escriuo mas de lo que hasta oy.

El senor Simon Calderon hermano de v. m. esta bueno y le di notiçia de su salud de v. m.

Aqui esta otro religioso de la merced primo de v. m. esta bueno que lo le he ofrecido seruir en lo que valiere.

El año passado llego a esta corte el padre fray Pedro de San Joseph, procurador general de la provincia de Santa Cruz de la isla Española a negocios de esa su provincia los quales por hauer de pasar a Roma dexo su solicitud a mi ciudad y le he facado prorrogaciones para todos los conuentos de la provincia doy abisso dello al padre superior del conuente de esa çiudad en la que va con esta para que v. m. se la de en que remito una copia de la merced que v. m. me abise hauer le dado dha carta y la respuesta della.

Al thesorero de la yglesia Francisco de Valdes tengo remitido quando se fue el pressidente la dispensacion para obtener su preuenda asi se lo dira v. m.

Bueluo a suplicar a v. m. haga recuerdos a los racioneros madera y escoto sobre mi agencia y lo mismo a los demas que v. m. saue les he seruido aviseme de ello.

El senor Juan Diez de la Calle y su hijo don Juan quedan buenos y les he dado sus recaudos de v. m. no han tenido cartas de v. m. les escriua en todas occasiones por mi mano y duplicado a Seuilla a Juan Flaneel la que va con esta para don Goncalo de Castro yaguilera supp. a v. m. le de que es pretendiente depreuenda y me a remitido su poder y deseo seruirle y creo sea de acomodar en alguna resulta.

Esa carta para el señor don Balthasar es de mi señora doña Micaela de Spinosa que se halla en esta corte y no ofreziendose otra cosa. Nostro senor guarde a v. m. muchos años como deseo. Madrid 30 de Otubre de 1656.

Despues de escrita esta se proveyo el arzedianato de esa yglesia en el senor don Juan Baup^ta de Olivares y su preuenda en Francisco de Valdes thesorero, y esta al canonigo Manuel Goncales demelo a quien escriuo dandoles este abiso en las ynclussas por mano de v. m. y en tanto que bantos titulos solicitar a v. m. le entreguen las albricias ofrecidas que ya selo escriuo y a visarame de todo y entodo espero obrara v. m. como mi amigo y como quien es que le. Guarde Dios como desseo. Madrid 15 de Diciembre de 1656.

Amigo y serv. de v. m.

Bernardo de Aparicio.

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

Vol. xlv.p. 176.

Right honourable,
I Suppose ere theise com, Mr. Townley will bee arrived at London, and may have presented himselfe to the councell, if he be as forward to doe it, as his party heere boast of. He departed by land with his wife, the day after the last week's post, beinge, as it seemes, well enough to undertake such a joyrney in the dead of winter, though he fained himselfe sick to avoyd beinge sent by me in the state's frigot. Your honor will see by the inclosed attestation, in how unworthy a manner both hee and his sureties have falsifyed their words, and mockt the state, which I suppose they must not goe cleane away with. I am loth to give both his highness and the councell further truble in that business, but request your honor will please to exhibite this attestation, with the former addresses and papers, when Mr. Townley appeares before the councell.

Heere was yesterday a letter published from the company at London, which mentioned a conference, that the governor and some of the company there had lately had with your honor, from which Mr. Townley's party gather great encouragement, and became soe consident upon it, as that undesired they brought me the letter to read, dated the 21 of the last month. My memory will not serve me to repeate the passages therein, but I beleeve the pennman of the letter hath made an over-large report of your honor's expressions to the governor and those gentlemen. I would have had a copie of it, but that will not be graunted heere. However, I suppose your honor will thinke meete to command a sight of that letter. It hath heightned them soe much, as that they have sent me the enclosed answer to my late paper, of which I sent you a copie, beinge the same for substance with their proposition, which occasioned that paper from mee; wherein they plainely declare, that they intend to give me noe assistance for the bringinge of offenders to condigne punishment, as his higness requires, except they may first bee judges of the matter of fact, according to the rule of their charter and orders, well knowing they have noe rule there for such cases. I presume when Mr. Townley comes before the councell, their lordshipps will please to putt an end to theise disputes, and that I shall know their pleasures in what manner to expect the company's conformity heere. Referringe your honor to the letters and papers of intelligence, I remayne

Your honor's very humble servant,
Richard Bradshaw.

Hamb. 16 Dec. 1656.

Inclos'd in the preceding.

Vol. xliv. p. 224.

We whose names are subscribed, being servants to the honourable Richard Bradshaw esq. resident for his highness the lord protector in Hamburg, and by him required to declare the truth according to our knowledge, do attest as followeth:

That upon thursday the 27th of November 1656, about eight of the clock at night, Mr. Drue Tindall and Mr. Edward Holford, merchants, came to the resident, accompanied with Mr. Francis Townley, to whom we heard the resident say, Gentlemen, being you have, according to your obligation, brought Mr. Townley to me, I here deliver you up your bond; telling Mr. Townley, that he must stay with him that night, and the next morning go down to the frigat with the lieutenant, who stayed for him. Then we heard the said Mr. Holford desire the resident to give Mr. Townley time 'till saturday following for the settling of his business, which he had not yet fully done, and they would continue their bond for bringing him in at that time: to whom the resident replied, that he could not answer the staying of the frigate any longer, and therefore resolved to send Mr. Townley down the next morning, there being a boat ready. But Mr. Holford holding the bond in his hand, and pressing the resident to continue it, and to give Mr. Townley time till saturday, the resident told him, that the condition being performed, the bond was void; adding, that if Mr. Townley, who was present, desired any thing of him, he should give him answer. Whereupon Mr. Townley said to the resident, that he had much business to do, and therefore desired, that if he could not have time till saturday, that yet the resident. would suffer him to return to his house for that night, and he would return unto him the next morning. Whereupon the resident said unto him, If I permit you to return to your house to night, will you engage yourself upon your word, as a merchant and honest man, that you will render yourself to me here at my house by to-morrow at eight of the clock, to go down with the lieutenant to the frigate? To which he replyed, that if he engaged his word, he looked upon it to be as good as his bond. To whom the resident answered, And so do I too; adding, Do you therefore so engage yourself? to which Mr. Townley replied, I do, and will not fail to come unto you by eight of the clock. Then the resident, turning to Mr. Holford and Mr. Tindall, said to them, Are you also, gentlemen, content to engage yourselves, as Mr. Townley hath done, for his return to me at eight of the clock to morrow morning ? to which they replied in the affirmative, Mr. Holford saying, Yes, I am content, or words to that effect; and Mr. Tindall said, I do. Then the resident said unto them, that though he should not take bonds of them for so short a time, yet that he looked upon and understood a merchant's word to be as good as his bond; and to accommodate Mr. Townley with as much time as he could for the settling of his business, he was contented to let him return home that night, but desired them all to remember their engagements, and to keep the hour, and so bad them good night; Mr. Townley saying as he went from the resident, that he would not sail to be with him by eight a clock next morning. As soon as they were gone forth, the resident called to us to take notice of and remember their engagements, which we answered we had, and should do, the resident having commanded us, before they came in, to be present, that we might take notice of what past, which we do well remember, as is here set down; and do testify, that what is here written was spoken by either part, either in these words, or words to the same sense and effect. By us

John Hughes
William Parkinson.

Admiral de Ruyter to the States General.

Vol. xlii. p. 60.

Noble great lords.

My lords, after cordial salutation, these are to let you know, that the heer Van Coevarden arrived here on the 16^th instant in the morning, and brought with him a certain letter from their noble great lordships to the commissioners of the admiralty here, concerning the English, to annul our secret order; which doth seem strange to me, being sorry for it, for none of the state's servants at sea can serve the state so, but they will at one time or other suffer a very great affront, and be a very great shame to our state, and so esteemed by the merchants and commonalty for shameless rascals, for no body can in that wise preserve his convoy, for the least of the state of England will endeavour to affront us, and visit our ships to their content, and for the least pretence carry away our merchantmen, and laugh at us besides for fools and cowards; which is very sad for honest servants of our state to bear. We hope their high and mighty lordships will take another resolution, and send the same to us with all speed. We are quite ready with our ships to set sail with the first wind. Pray God send us a prosperous voyage for the service of our country. I remain, &c.

Michael Adriaenson, de Ruyter.

Dec. 16, 1656. [N. S.]

From the schiff in Texell.

Commissioner Pells to the States General.

Vol. xlv. p. 59.

High and mighty lords,
Notwithstanding that the magistrates of this city, at the going away of the last post, had signified to your high and mighty lordships ambassadors, that the skipper with gunpowder and other wares should be discharged and dismissed; yet the same was not performed, the magistrates excusing the same, that his majesty of Poland would not suffer that ammunition should be carried to his enemies: so the 320 barrels of powder were taken out of the ship, and the skipper was afterward dismissed, having had his freight paid him; and two days since he set sail for the Pillau, where he is safely arrived.

Two days since, two of your high and mighty lordships ambassadors went from hence to the court of Sweden at Marienburg. God grant their good endeavours may be effectual for the furthering of the peace. The ambassadors of the duke of Brandenburgh are not yet come, the king of Sweden doing his utmost endeavour to dissuade him from any agreement with Poland, having made with him lately a new agreement.

P. Pells.

Dantzick, Dec. 16, 1656. [N. S.]

Ambassador Dorp to the States General.

Vol. xlv. p. 64.

High and mighty lords.

My lords, presently after the departure of the last post, having sent for the skipper Broer Jansen to come to us, whereof we made mention in our last to your high and mighty lordships, and acquainted him with the resolution of the council of this city concerning the releasing of his ship and goods, according to the information and word sent unto us by the secretary of the said council, we have since understood, that the business had a quite other issue, in regard there were 320 barrels of gunpowder laden on board of him, and some carbines and pistols. Whereupon having again spoken with the chief burgomaster about it, he said, that it was true, that such a resolution was taken, as was sent to us; but that the king afterwards had thought fit to unlade and keep the said powder, with an intention to pay the owner thereof, in regard his majesty was informed, that there was a great want of powder amongst his enemies; therefore were very much necessitated and troubled, that the same came not to the place, where it was designed. Hereupon the skipper went home yesterday for the Pillau, having received full satisfaction to his content, for as much as concerned himself, taking a declaration of the ship and the unlading of the powder, to serve for his discharge by the merchants, to whom he was to deliver the same at Koningsburgh. We shall in all humility expect your high and mighty lordships resolution upon this, how we shall further proceed herein; and in the mean time we shall desire of his majesty, that your high and mighty lordships subjects may not be molested in their commerce and navigation directly nor indirectly.

Here is a report of importance, that Ragotski being joined with the Cossacks, hath raised the siege by the Poles before Cracow.

H. Van Dorp.

Dantzick, Dec. 16, 1656. [N. S.]

A letter from Dantzick.

Vol.xlv.p. 66.

My Lord,
Three days since I advised your lordship what happened in these parts, as much as came to my knowledge. Since I have spoken a with certain gentleman, who came lately from Mittau: he assured me, that there is a cessation arms, and a neutrality concluded between the Muscovite and the duke of Courland.

The gunpowder, that came from Holland, designed for Koningsburg, and seized upon by the Dantzickers, is plainly said at Koningsburgh to belong to the duke of Brandenburgh; whereby Dantzick doth conceive to have just cause for what they have done.

The king of Sweden is still here; was yesterday entertained by one of the burghers, a bookseller by trade.

Dantzick, Dec. 16, 1656. [N. S.]

Extract out of the resolutions of the lords the States of Holland and West Friesland.

Saturday, Dec. 16, 1656. [N. S.]

Vol.xlv.p.73.

The raedt pensionary having reported to the assembly the considerations and advice of the lords, their noble great lordships commissioners for the affairs of the sea, having in pursuance of the resolution of the 13th instant, considered the reasons and arguments used by the college of the admiralty of Amsterdam, for the justification and demonstration of the necessity of a certain act drawn up by the said college provisionally on the third of the last month, for the regulation and instruction of the sea captains under the jurisdiction of the said college, to regulate themselves accordingly, upon the expedition to the mediterranean sea, ordered by their high and mighty lordships resolution of the 26th of June last, in case they mould meet any English men of war, that should attempt to visit the merchantmen under their protection, or detain the same, or take any goods out of them, or to use them unhandsomely; as also having considered the request made by the committee of the said college of the admiralty, upon the ground of the said reasons, to the end the business might be directed by or in the behalf of their noble great lordships to the generalty, that by their high and mighty lordships may be recalled the resolution, taken upon the foregoing provisional advice of their noble great lordships of the 5th of this month, for the recalling of the said act; whereupon, being debated, it is thought fit to be resolved, that in the affair of the maritime treaty to be made, England shall be furthered with all speed, and that in the mean time the business shall be directed to the generalty by their noble great lordships, to the end their high and mighty lordships will summon within few days certain commissioners out of the respective colleges of the admiralty, to consult with them further about the abovementioned, and to hear their considerations upon the said act of the said college of Amsterdam; and that being done, so to dispose the business afterwards, as occasion shall serve, and according to the issue and success of the maritime treaty in England, now in negotiation. And that in the mean time the business shall remain by the foregoing resolutions, taken successively upon the said subjects; and that notice hereof be given to the respective colleges of admiralty, to regulate themselves accordingly.

A letter of intelligence.

Paris, Dec. 16, 1656. [N. S.]

Vol. xlv. p. 57.

In my last I advised you of the apprehending of the lord de Chenailles, counsellor in the parliament of Paris, of the pretended reformed religion, and mons. de Prez, capt. of the garrison of St. Quintin, who were sent prisoners to the Bastile, being accused of intelligence with the prince of Condé, and that they had a design to betray to him the said place. Commissioners being appointed by his majesty to examine them, and proceed against them, they have been once to interrogate them; but the said Chenailles desired to have the business deferred till some other time, complaining, that he was not well, and that he could not an swer; the reason whereof is said to be dejectedness of spirit rather than any thing else; but the commissioners were not very earnest with them, so that nothing hath been yet done.

On the 13^th current the marshall of la Ferté arrived here, having payed for his ransom eighty thousand guilders to the prince of Condé, a thousand pistols to the officer that took him, and a thousand escus to the soldier that likewise took him.

The Dutch ambassadors at Dantzick to the States General.

Vol. xlv. p. 77.

My lord,
We have had a visit given us by a gentleman, who resideth here in the court, in the behalf of the duke of Courland. He complimented us very civilly in the name of the said duke, and delivered us a letter, with a paper comprehending in some points the interests of the said duke; upon which we were desired, in case the treaty of peace proceeded, to take some consideration. He said also, that the said duke had advertised the king of Poland by an express, that the treaties between the Muscovite and the king of Sweden were much endeavoured; and therefore gave his advice, that his majesty of Poland ought to hasten so much the more his treaty of peace with Sweden. It is said here, that some 2000 horse of the Swedes have been to take their march towards Pomeren, to join with some new-raised forces, most horse, for the reinforceing the Swedish army.

We are going to the king of Sweden, but we fear we shall receive no better answer than we did formerly, unless his majesty do resolve to give satisfaction of the preliminary points, perceiving that otherwise no treaty will be on the Polish side.

Dorp,
Huybert,
Isbrants.

Dantzick, Dec. 17, 1656. [N. S.]

The Dutch ambassadors in Denmark to Ruysch.

Vol. xlv. p. 79.

My lord,
Here inclosed we send you a copy of the act of ratification, which we promised to send in our last.

The lord resident of Sweden doth use endeavours by the chief ministers to have an overture of the conditions, upon which this crown is willing to treat with the king his master, either to confirm the ancient amity between the two crowns, or to make a new alliance. But they do keep themselves reserved here, and they understand (as far as we perceive) before they declare themselves, that the said resident do first receive further power; and that they expect the overtures to come first from his majesty of Sweden; which will be all we have to advise at present, &c. &c.

Beuningen,
Amerongen,
Viersen.

Copenhagen, Dec. 17, 1656. [N. S.]

Boreel, the Dutch ambassador in France, to Ruysch.

Paris, Dec. 17, 1656. [N. S.]

Vol. xlv. p. 80.

My lord,
Of late I have writ to your lordship several points to be imparted to their high and mighty lordships, which in my opinion can sufficiently make out the good affection of this court not to be so great to the state of their high and mighty lordships, and the welfare of their subjects, as hath been formerly; and they now do daily more and more demonstrate the same upon all occasions. I am certainly informed, that this alteration and obstruction being proposed and debated in the council of the presence of the king, that there were but two opinions against it, or rather one advice of the two, which did suggest to his majesties consideration, that those of the United Netherlands ought to be so used as was intended, that thereby, said he, no urging occasion be given to them at any time, to act any thing prejudicial to France; but all the other opinions did tend to the alterations and obstructions formerly mentioned; and by degrees I am afraid they will take some other resolution no less prejudicial to the state and welfare of their high and mighty lordships.

I could wish, that I had more pleasing wares and commodities to write; yet it is my duty not to be silent.

W. Boreel.

Col. Barkstead, lieut. of the tower, to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. xlv. p. 84.

Sir,
Sir Thomas Peyton and collonel Vernon having had some little liberty, as to theire law suites of late, should I send you all the papers I have seized, should tire you with them; but shall by myselfe and others, which I shall employ therein, make a diligent view over them, and send you what may be of concernment, that are amongst them. In the meane time the inclosed being the first, that came to my hands, and which I conceive of very great consequence, I have sent you by the bearer capt. Nicholas Cordy, whome I have commanded to deliver this letter to your owne hand. The manner of taking the paper was thus: I sent for sir Thomas this morning, as if I would speake with him; and then told him, I must imediately search his chamber, and haveing appointed three carefull officers, giveing them intimation to search both it and him, so soon as they came into the chamber, there being the keeper's daughter eighteen years old, one of the officers perceived sir Thomas to look much upon and draw towards her; which caused him to suspect, so that he gave a very watchfull eye, yet as they might not take notice of it. Sir Thomas, as soone as he came near the maid, thrust the inclosed paper into her hand, upon which the officer imediately seized, and having it in his hand, sir Thomas endeavoured to snatch it out of his hand again, and seemed extreamly troubled, that he could not recover it. I shall give you no further trouble at present, then to add, that I am,

Your affectionate freind and servant,
Jo. Barkstead.

Tower of London, Dec. 7, 1656.

Sir, the prisoners in the tower being committed upon warrants of several natures, I humbly conceive, if a generall warrant for the close imprisonment of them all be granted till further order, it will be of very much advantage.

Col. Barkstead, lieutenant of the tower, to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. xlv. p. 95.

Sir,
Having strictly perused the papers of the two prisoners, I find not more of any consequence or worth your trouble in either of them, than what I sent you on saturday of sir Thomas Peyton's; only the papers of his I have by this bearer serjeant Rogers sent you. I have also sent the informations of those, that searched sir Thomas Peyton. Sir Thomas is very melancholly, expects to be sent for and examined to-day, or some sent to examin him here. I have doubled my guards on him, not suffering any to speak with him; which I shall continue till I receive order to the contrary. Not more, but that I am, sir,

Your affectionate freind and servant,
Jo. Barkstead.

Tower of London, Dec. 8, 1656.

The bearer is the person, who took that paper from sir Thomas I sent you on satterday, and one whom you have formerly employed.

Resident Sasburgh to the States General.

Vol. xlv. p. 87.

High and mighty lords,
My lords, the states of Brabant have been often together of late to agree with his highness about the monthly allowance; and as yet nothing is concluded, so that 'tis to be feared the soldiers will be quartered as formerly. Whether the same will be without confusion is much doubted. It seems the clergy at Antwerp, as well as some other inhabitants, must draw their purses. It is said, that some troops do begin to march already towards Antwerp, which occasioneth several opinions. Some think it is to be in a readiness, in case any commotion should happen at Antwerp; others, because they are to pass the winter in those parts. The general muster and reformation was begun on saturday last, and will be continued to-day and to-morrow. The king of England had a long conference with his highness on saturday last and yesterday: the ceremonies between them happen in a confused and familiar manner, as the worldly affairs about great alterations must permit. In the chamber are only two chairs. His majesty of England received yesterday 30,000 guilders, and is to receive 40,000 more within these two or three days. I am informed out of France, that the queen of England doth very much insist in that court, that the king may have a pass for him to pass through that kingdom into Spain. I am also informed, that forty Portugal ships are joined with the English fleet; and that they have some design upon the canary islands: that those two powers will also endeavour to engage France in a league offensive and defensive.

Brussels, Dec. 18, 1656. [N. S.]

General Blake to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. xlv. p. 90.

Sir,
Yours of the 4^th November by the packet boate came to my hand the 5^th instant. The welcome tidings of a right understanding betweene his highnes and the parlement, the successe of our frends abroad, more especially the timely check given by God's providence unto the proud hopes of our old enemies at home, and theire complices in Flanders, hath not a little revived our sad spirits in the middest of so many difficulties here. The three victualers are now with us; the two first came in the nick of time, that we were going into this port for bread. The John and Abigail arrived here last thursday. We do use all possible diligence to cleare them of their victuls, that we may go to sea; but the great anxiety is how we may be inabled to keepe the sea for want of liquour. This cuntry is wholy drained of beverage wines. We cannot make up above sixe weeks drinke at most; and I am inforced to buy up a quantity of good drinking wine for a reserve, to be disposed of among the sea-men in case of necessity, which is a bad but our onely expedient at present. I have likewise sent to Porto Porto, to buy what wines are to be gott there. The supply, which is offered us of 400 pipes of wine from the Maderas, is a remedy no better than the disease, for they cannot be expected probably in less than 2 months; and where they may then find us, or if they should come to us at sea, how we shall gett out the wines, and how they must be converted into beverage for the use of the fleet, without going to Port, is a riddle to those, who are of experience, though to others perhaps it may seeme easy. These inconvenients might have been prevented by sending 2 moneths or but 6 weeks before. I wish that his highness were thoroughly informed of these things, that a better course may be taken in the future for the supply of his fleets, and carrying on of his service in these or any other remote parts. Sir, I am sorry to trouble you with these things, but upon this occasion I hold it my duty so to do. The state of affairs of Cadiz is much the same as you write. Sir, I shall not lengthen this trouble, intending to send again shortly by a surer hand. In the meane time I wish you all happines in the Lord, and remaine

Your humble servant,
Rob. Blake.

Swiftsure, in the bay of Weyer,
Dec. 8, 1656.

Midd. sc. The information of John Rogers of the Tower of London gent. taken upon oath the eighth day of December, 1656. before sir John Barkstead knt. lieutenant of his highness's Tower of London, and one of the justices of the peace of the said county.

Vol. xlv. p. 93.

This informant saith, that the 6^th of this instant month, being commanded by the lieutenant of the Tower, together with lieutenant William Parker, to make a strict and diligent search in the lodging of sir Thomas Peyton (prisoner in the Tower) and about his person for all papers and writings whatsoever; and being accordingly with the said sir Thomas Peyton in his lodging making the search as aforesaid, perceived him to draw from this informant, and eye much the daughter of his keeper, which caused this informant the more to suspect and observe his actions. And the said sir Thomas Peyton having some opportunity, when this informant had not the full sight of him, he this informant perceived him to thrust somewhat in the coats of his keeper's daughter (which were tuck'd up) and also perceived, that the said maid endeavoured the removing of somewhat out of her coat into a safer place; thereupon made towards her, and took out of her coats a paper, which this informant looking upon to read, the said sir Thomas snatcht at it to have got it away, and told this informant, he need not be so strict, and that he expected great matters for that he did, and told this informant, he could have wish'd he had burnt it, and that it was his intention to have burnt it eight or ten days ago; and then brought the said paper to the lieutenant of the Tower, concieving it to be of some consequence for the reasons aforesaid, and thereto subscribed his name, and further saith not.

John Rogers.

Midd. sc. The information of William Parker of the Tower of London gent. taken upon oath the eighth day of December 1656 before sir John Barkstead knt. lieutenant of his highness's Tower of London, and one of the justices of the peace of the said country,

Vol. xlv. p. 94.

This informant saith, that the 6^th of this month being commanded by the lieutenant of the Tower, together with serjeant John Rogers, to make a strict and diligent search in the lodgings of sir Thomas Peyton (prisoner in the Tower) and about his person for papers and writings whatsoever, and being accordingly with this said sir Thomas Peyton in his lodgings making the search aforesaid, observed him to draw from the informant and the said serjeant Rogers near to his keeper's daughter, who was then in the same room; and this informant being busily searching his closet, saw that the said serjeant Rogers had taken a paper from the said maid, which sir Thomas Peyton had conveyed to her; and the said John Rogers being reading thereof, the said sir Thomas snatcht at it, and said, he need not be so strict, and that he expected great matters for what he did; and further told this informant, that he received the said paper about a fortnight since, and that he could have wished he had burnt it, as he was going to do four or five times, for that he used not to keep papers of such consequence, which paper the said Rogers delivered to the lieutenant of the Tower, and further saith not.

Will. Parker.

The examination of sir Thomas Peyton, taken the 8^th of December, 1656. [Taken by secretary Thurloe.]

Vol. lxv. p. 91.

Who saith, that a paper now shewn unto him, in the top whereof is written these words, W. A. (N^o 30) was in his hands, and taken from him by lieut. Parker and serjeant Rogers, officers appointed (as he understands) by the lieutenant of the Tower to search him and his chambers on saturday last. And saith, that when it was discovered, he did the best he could to conceal it, because he judged the matter thereof to be very dangerous. And being asked, how it came to his hands, he saith, that it was brought him by a person from Blackfryers, upon sunday was se'nnight in the evening; and that it hath been in his hands ever since; but saith, that he knows not from whom it came, nor who it was that brought it, but conceives he was a porter, that brought it, because he demanded money for bringing it; and that the porter told him, he knew not, who the party was, that sent it, nor doth the examinant imagine, who it was that sent it, nor doth he know any thing of the contents of it, nor what the meaning thereof should be, he being wholly a stranger to the matter thereof.

Thomas Peyton.

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

Vol. xliv. p. 97.

Right honorable,
I Did thinke at least, that Mr. Townley would have gone out of his owne accord, though he would not at my sendinge in the Draggon frigot, which occasioned my trubleinge your honor with letters by the captain: but hee's still heere, and now that the frigat is gone is well againe, and, as I am told, intends to goe over land some tyme this weeke, to render himselfe to the councell at his owne pleasure. When your honor shall have leasure to peruse the inclosed to his highness and the councell, with the paper of his deportment heere, I presume you will be satisfyed, he hath not caryed it like a prudent man, soe to contest the order, consideringe how he came away, and that it was soe ordered, that he should be returned back by me, as some kind of punishment to him and vindication to me in this place. I am sorie, that he thus ads contempt to contempt, which noe doubt but his highness and the councell will resent and suitably reward him; for had not his great spirit stood in his way, he hath had many faire overtures and opportunitys of recoveringe himselfe into the good opinion of his highness and some of the honnest party in the company. It may be now he sees his boysterous behaviour will no longer be suffered, hee will submit himselfe, especially if upon his arrivall his freinds advise him to it. I should be glad to heare, that God had set his failings upon his hart, as at the first of his engageinge in this contest with dissatisfyed and malignant men, he remarkably did, to the enforceinge of him to confess to some freinds, that he was noe sooner returned to his house from that court, wherein he had soe publickly affronted me, but his hart smote him for what he had done against me, professinge, that he had not rested for two or three nights, desireinge his freind to thinke of a way how to reconcile him againe to me; and for the place of deputie, he would resigne it, and be for the future much more my freind than ever he had beene; with many other expressions denoteinge his sorrow for what he had done, even with teares in his eyes, as I can prove by the same person, though its like he will now deny it. But the interest he espoused, would not suffer him to close with any overtures or dictates of his own conscience against their desires, who hurryed him on; and I beleeve it may truly be said of him, as oft it is of the bad kings of Israel, that his wife hath stirred him up to much of the disturbance he hath wrought. Truly I cannot but wonder, that such a petit busines as this was at first, should so influence upon the whole fellowship, as it hath done; but his unquiet spirit suted with a like principle in the more numerous party. I shall not doubt, but when he appeares againe at the councell, their lordships will put an end to this longsome businesse, that I may not be necessitated to give his highness, the councell, or yourselfe any further trouble with it. Herein I pray your honor's furtherance, and that the company here may know, what is and will be expected at their hands.

I shall not further detayne you, but onely to desire, that at Mr. Townley's cominge, those addresses of mine to his highness and the councell of the fourth of the last month, with the paper I sent to this court, may be presented, if not yet done; and that if Mr. Townley goe not over land of his owne accord (which will now shortly be knowne) that then I may be ordered to send him over land by one of my servants, and the company here required to assist me in it. Referringe to the papers of intelligence, I shall ever affectionately remayne

Your honor's very humble servant,
Rich. Bradshaw.

Hamburg, 9 Decemb. 1656.

I have received your honor's letter per this post.

I have gott the Quakers returned in the frigott, but not without much truble with them. There is another yet straglinge in the country, which came from Holland.

Intelligence.

Hamb. 9 Decembris, S. V. [1656.]

Vol. xlv. p. 13.

From the emperor's court we are assured, his majesty and council have absolutely concluded to wave the propositions of the Poles, as touching his majesty's acceptance of their crown, the states finding it a great deal more convenient and conducible for the sacred empire, rebus sic stantibus, to make sure first the crown of the Romans, and others hereditarily due to the house of Austria, than to covet after more foreign crowns, especially one involved in such deep and groundless troubles, and having so many puissant competitors, as that which was offered to them. One of the most grave counsellors being asked to give his advice also, what answer was to be returned to the Poles, is reported to have comprehended the same in these words: Quærite primo regnum Romanorum, & cætera edjicientur vobis; whose opinion all the rest did approve of, and agree unto. The will and testament of the deceased elector of Saxony being opened, and published to the princes his sons, and their respective privy counsellors at Dresden, it was found, that a great sum of money, viz. 1,400,000 rix-dollars, all of the coin of his said highness, were laid up by him in the Green-hall (as it is called) to be equally shared and divided by all his children, being seven in number; besides which money he hath also so equally and justly distributed all his lands among them, that it is to be admired at, every one of them being exceeding well contented with his legacy. And whereas it hath been falsly spread abroad by the Papists, that his present electoral highness, immediately upon the death of his father, would abandon the Protestant religion, and embrace the Popish errors, his highness hath not only declared his high displeasure of these base slanders and calumnies, but also for the better satisfaction of his subjects in this particular, publicly professed the Protestant religion, and faithfully engaged to live and die in the same. From Dantzick the 9^th Dec. it is said, every thing grows very dear, by reason of the extraordinary devastation the Poles make thereabouts. The Swedes have quartered their troops in the garrisons on both sides of the Weixell, inasmuch as besides some petty skirmishes between small parties, nothing of concernment passeth betwixt them; and being the treaty between Poland and Muscovy doth not come to any maturity, these refusing a peace without the Muscovian prince be declared successor to the crown of Poland, which in regard to the competition, which the Transylvanian duke pretends upon it, as also because of the offer made by the Poles at the imperial court, cannot well be granted; and the Swedes also play their personage and interest with an armed hand in the business. It is thought and believed, if the clergy did but incline to it, a way might soon be found for the uniting the two crowns of the Swedes and the Poles. The cessation of arms between Brandenburgh and Poland indeed continues, yet notwithstanding the Samoites do not much value it, burning now here three villages belonging to the Brandenburghers; and giving out for their excuse, that the transgressors are but vagabonds and unruly parties, whose means and living being in the same manner consumed and taken from them, they were constrained to those courses for their maintenance. In Liesland passeth nothing remarkable.

Daniel de Latfens to the States General.

Vol. xlv. p. 109.

High and mighty lords.

My lords, on the 21^st of November last I advised your high and mighty lordships then what was writ to me from Thoulon. Since I have been there myself, and I find, that besides the private men of war, several of the king's ships are rigging forth to go upon piracies; and also there I received a copy of the arrest of the council, whereby your high and mighty lordships subjects are subjected to the rigour of the French ordinances; and in regard the same cannot but cause great unquietness, I would not omit to inform your high and mighty lordships thereof, according to my duty, to do therein as your high and mighty lordships shall find convenient.

High and mighty lords, &c.

Daniel de Latfens.

Marseilles, 19 Dec. 1656. [N. S.]

Secretary Thurloe to H. Cromwell, major general of the army in Ireland.

In the possession of Joseph Jekyll esq.

My lord,
I Knowe not, wheither the character, which I sent to your lordship, be yet remeyninge with you; and therefore cannot write any thinge in that way, which I should have done, if I thought your lordship could have uncyphered it; and when I doe knowe that, I shall be more free to write.

Wee have now satt full 3 months in parlament, which is the tyme the government limitts for a parlament called betweene the trienniall parlament. What our sittinge hath produced, your lordship will see by the printed acts, which is all that hath bene done by us. Some other thinges are in hand, but nothinge more perfected. These 4 or 5 last dayes have bene wholly taken up about James Naylor the Quaker, who hath had a charge of blasphemy exhibited against him; and upon heareinge matter of fact, he is voted guiltye of blasphemie; and the consideration now is (which I beleeve may be determined this eveninge) what punishment shall be inflicted. Many are of opinion, that he ought to be put to death. Wee are in daylye expectation of a motion to be made in the house for changeinge one point in the government, which hath begot great thoughts of heart in some. But I will not enlarge upon this subject at this tyme, but wish I had the honor of wayteinge upon your lordship one houre. It's possible I might be able to say somethinge worth your lordship's knowledge.

The levellers are very buissie, and are in perfect conjunction with the kinge of Spayne. The part they have first undertaken, is to assassinate my lord protector, and have layd the way of doeing it. This I knowe with as much certeinetie, as that your lordship is in Ireland. I trust the Lord will disappoint them, as he hath done; but wee see hereby the spirit of these men. The kinge of Spayne doth not soe much relye upon the Cavaleir partye, as upon these; but yet this correspondence is betweene them, that Charles Stewart's partie have orders to be ready and appeare when the levellers shall begin. The strength C. Stewart's partie hath in Flanders is about 1200 men; the rest have left their colours, only don John intends to afford them some of his troopes, when their designe is readye; and I am well informed, that their begininge will be in England. Upon some intelligence I had, order was given for the searchinge of sir Thomas Peyton's chamber, who is now a prisoner in the Tower, where I found a paper newly come from Brussells, which expresseth, that the takeinge of the Spanish gallions had retarded the designes of Ch. Stewart for 2 or 3 months, unlesse some accident should fall out (whereby the assasination of his highnes is meant) in which case he would bee sooner in England then was imagined; and wishes all his partie to be ready with their horse and armes, when any troubles should begin. This, I hope, will not lessen your lordship's care of Ireland, although indeed my intelligence is, that they intend to begin here.

Colo. Lockart is returned home to see his wife, who hath had much opportunitie to understand the intentions of C. Stewart, and alsoe of the levellers; and his information is, that the matter is stated by them as is abovesayd.

Our last letters from Prussia and Dantzicke do bringe us noe newes at all. The affaires both of the Swede and Pole remeyned in all thinges as they did by the forgoeinge letters. There is noe thinge from Scotland. I remeyne

Your lordship's most humble,
and most faithfull servant,
Jo. Thurloe.

Whitehall, 9 Dec. 1656.

Commissioner Pels to the States General.

Vol. xlv. p. 132.

High and mighty lords,
There is a little to mention at present. We expect the queen of Poland shortly here. His majesty of Sweden hath sent her letters for her free passage. The general Charnitzky is to come with three or four hundred men for a convoy. The Polish army doth yet lie still without attempting any thing: they long very much for money. The clergy hath consented to give most part of the ornaments of their churches of gold and silver to the king for the payment of the army. In regard the frost continueth, the Weysell may chance to be frozen over, that both parties may come at each other, and then some action will happen between them. The bishop of Ermelent arrived here some three days since, but not well in health. It is hoped he will be able to contribute something for the furthering of a peace.

Dantzick, Dec. 20, 1656. [N. S.]

A letter of intelligence from Mr. Manley at Dantzick to Mr. Anthony Rogers.

Vol. xlv. p. 119.

Deare sir,
Since my last, there is little or nothing worth your knoledge. 'Tis certaine, that the Sweedes horse are all past the river at Dirkshau, where they have a bridge: their cannon and foot are yet on the other side. The Poles cry unseasonably for money, and the plague itselfe begins to breake out among them; which is no wonder, considering their strange nastines, their camp beeing so foule with their dead horses and the excrements of the army, that if it were not for the frost, it wowld certaynly corrupt the whole country. Two of the Holland ambassadors are gone to find out the king of Sweden: we wish they may returne with the olive-branch. Some places in Pomerania have of new been taken and ransacked by the Poles. Let the Swedes come when they will, they may indeed unsettle the Poles, but they will hardly beate them, for they are so well horsed, insomuch that when the eneime opiniaters, they wheele off. This new found prophesie presumes to tell you the fate of the Sweed. The Muscovites begin to stirr in Leifeland anew, and 'tis say'd, that the treaty betwixt them and Poland is absolutely concluded. A Swedish minister told mee, that his master had sent the commander in Cracow orders to deliver the place into Rogotzy's hands, he and the Cossackes being of intelligence against Poland. Farewell.

I am your's entirely,
J. Fr.

Dec. 20, 1656. [N. S.]

The states of Groningen and Ommelanden to the States General.

Vol. xlv. p. 126.

High and mighty lords,
We have taken at our assembly into our serious consideration of the baseness and treachery of the king of Portugal, committed against the West India company, in taking from them their conquests in Brazil, tending not only to the utter ruin of the said company, and to the invaluable loss to the goods and faithful subjects of this state, but also to the dishonour of the United Netherlands. And therefore we have not only thought fit in the behalf of this province, to resolve, that twenty, or twenty five, or a greater number of ships, lately come from the east sea, ought to be rigged forth to ply upon the coast of Portugal, but also to desire your high and mighty lordships, that the same may be executed; that so thereby the said company, and the good and faithful inhabitants, being deprived and almost ruin ed by the loss of the said conquests, may receive satisfaction and content from the said king.

Your high and mighty lordships good friends, The states of Groningen and Ommelanden.

Dated at Groningen, Dec. 20, 1656. [N. S.]

The commissioners of the admiralty to vice-admiral de Ruyter.

Vol. xlv. p. 128.

Sir,
To your letter of the 16th instant, by which you are yet earnestly desiring to know how you are to behave yourself, in case you do meet with any English men of war, that should attempt to visit, stop, or take out some goods, or send up any of the merchantmen under your conduct after an unhandsome manner of proceeding, we have thought fit to return this answer; that the act formerly given you concerning the same being yet suppressed according to their high and mighty lordships letter, for some weighty reasons tending thereunto, we have not yet been able to dispose their high and mighty lordships to agree to the same. But in regard that you, as also the commander, Wildt, and other captains belonging to your squadron, should know in the mean time how to regulate yourselves upon the said occasions, we have on the one side, as finding ourselves obliged and inclined, as much as lieth in us, justly to perform all that is promised in the treaty of peace made between the lord protector of England, Scotland, and Ireland on the one side, and this state on the other; but now again to preserve the good inhabitants of the states on the other side, and to keep their right and liberty agreed upon in the said treaty undiminished; we have thought fit to write unto you, and to order what you and the said commander of the squadron, meeting any English ships at sea, in pursuance of the 13th article of the said treaty, you are to give to the same all due honour and amity, in striking and giving some guns according to the condition of the place and the ships which are met; and then being earnestly desired, in general terms, to give sufficient information with the exhibiting of their sea passes and cockets, and declaring that the ships belong to these provinces, and that they have no goods aboard them prohibited by the said treaty, not doubting but the captains of the English ships will be therewith content, as the said lord protector, the council, and admiralty in England, and the general of their fleet have been always satisfied therewith since the making of the said treaty, without molesting or retarding one ship of this state. To which end you shall also not only prevent, but cause to be prevented any goods belonging to the Spaniards to be laden in your ship or ships, or suffer to be laden in them, or to give any protection, or suffer any to be given to any ships of what place soever, which, contrary to the said treaty, should desire to carry any contraband goods or wares to any of the harbours of Spain, or any places under their dominions. And you are also to endeavour to prevent and hinder the same, in regard to the inhabitants of this state, that should fraudulently go to do the same; but if so be, contrary to our expectation and opinions, some commanders and captains of such men of war, without bearing respect to the same treaty, as also the practice of their superiors above alledged, should pretend to visit the men of war of this state, to take out any men, or any thing else out of the same, to open the decks of the merchantmen, to stop the ships, to break open letters, trunks, or chests, or to send the same for England upon every slight pretence; you are to admonish them from doing it with all civil means, being contrary to the chief design of the said treaty of peace; earnestly desiring them not to do any thing against them; withall declaring, that they cannot suffer such excesses and exactions, contrary to the said treaty and practice, and that you must of necessity oppose it. But if so be they notwithstanding do persist in their intentions, and will effect the said excesses upon any of your ships, you and other officers of your squadron, in pursuance of their high and mightinesses resolution of the 18th of Aug. 1654, and since practiced in that manner, are couragiously and valiantly to defend your said ships against all such unjust attempts and grievances with such means as you have at hand, provided that there be no occasion given on this side for any such ill usage, or that any thing be done, which may occasion any distaste. But if so be you should chance to happen under the command of any castles or the power of ships in the English harbours, or meeting their capital fleet at sea, that shall go about to search the merchantmen of this state, you shall by all means, in serious yet civil terms, intercede for the masters of the ships, to the end they may not be abused contrary to the said treaty; but you are to forbear all hostility, there being no likelihood, that you are able to free the merchantmen from the said excesses and incroachments, till such time that by a just maritime treaty all things are brought to a good regulation, whereof we shall give you timely notice. In the mean time you are to give copies hereof in secret to all the of your squadron, to regulate themselves accordingly, in all what may happen concerning this. Upon which we replying, &c.

Dec. 20, 1656. [N. S.]

Nieuport the Dutch ambassador in England to Ruysch.

Vol. xlv. p. 122

My lord,
Yesterday night I received their high and mighty lordships resolution and letter of the 21^st instant, as also a copy of the letter of the 14^th of the same month, concerning the French maxim, that the goods of an enemy confiscate them of a friend; which is likewise to be practised here in England against the inhabitants of the United Netherlands; and perceive, that their high and mighty lordships do desire, that I should conceal the name of the writer, and exactly inform myself, what there is of reality in this; and that I should use all possible endeavours, to the end, if any such resolution be taken, that it may be recalled. Wherefore I sought an opportunity to speak with the lord secretary of state about it, through whose hands the same passed; and told him, without naming the name of the writer, that I was informed from the Hague, that the publication of an arrest of the king France, of the 30^th of Octob. last, did import, that the English, Venetians, Genoese, and the inhabitants of the Hans towns, were to be freed from the said maxim, that the goods of an enemy do confiscate them of a friend; but that the same was to be executed and observed against the inhabitants of the United Netherlands, which is also said to be begun and taken in hand with the consent of the lord protector; and that he hath assured the court of France, that his highness will follow the same, as soon as France hath begun it; adding withal, that his highness will not suffer Holland ships to pass through the sea without visiting; and in what ship he finds the least peny of Spanish goods, that the same shall confiscate ship and goods. His lordship hearkening to all this with attention, said, that undoubtedly it was an invention and fiction of the Spaniards to provoke the minds against each other, as they did formerly endeavour to make their high and mighty lordships believe, that his highness had engaged himself in a near alliance with the Swedes to the prejudice of the United Netherlands; and that he very well knew, that there were strong endeavours used, to make a new breach between the two nations. But having understood by me, that the same was writ to their high and mighty lordships out of France, and that the same was received, and held there for a certain truth, he declared with earnest expressions, that there were nothing at all in it, not so much as any thought of it; and that he assured me, that neither his highness nor the council had any knowledge of the said arrest; that the lord Lockhart, neither in his letters, nor in his report, nor otherwise, had made the least mention thereof; and that I could therefore fully assure their high and mighty lordships, that it was nothing else than a great seigned untruth; and withal, that there should be resolved here to follow and execute the said maxim against the inhabitants of the United Netherlands, which maxim they have always held to be altogether unjust: adding withal, that their high and mighty lordships might very well perceive the contrary by the papers exchanged with me concerning the regulating the maritime affairs; and that the lord protector did endeavour to preserve a true and firm amity with their high and mighty lordships; and that it was no ways his intention to prejudice the subjects of the United Netherlands, or to shew any such rigour against them; much less that he should excite others to do the same against them; and when any thing should happen in respect of their high and mighty lordships, which should not please him, that he would use no by-ways, but signify the same directly to their high and mighty lordships; and when I shall have received further order upon the last delivered articles concerning the maritime treaty, that they will shew that they seek amity and no enmity.

W. Nieuport.

Westminster, Dec. 20, 1656. [N. S.]

H. Cromwell, major general of the army in Ireland, to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. xliv. p. 116.

Sir,
I Ame at present under some trouble by reason of the illness of my little daughter; and haveinge noethinge of moment to imparte to you, I shall begg your pardon for my brevitie, and only reminde you of what I formerly wrote concerninge Mr. Bury for the treasurer's place, and sir Charles Coote's pattent for president of Connaught, and remaine

Your truly affectionate freind and humble servant,
H. Cromwell.

Dublin, Dec. 10, 1656.