State Papers, 1657: February (1 of 4)

February (1 of 4)

To the Venetian Agent.

Antwerp 11/1 Feb. 1657.

Vol. xlvii. p. 11.

The duke of York is returned to his brother at Bruges, with whom he is reconciled. The earl of Bristol will suddenly take his journey for Spain in the quality of ambassador extraordinary. King Charles is expecting some provisions from Spain, to make some diversion this spring.

It is resolved in Spain to invade Portugal by land with a formidable army, and to send a fleet to the Indies to beat the English out of Jamaica; but there being care to be had for Catalonia for these parts and for Italy, I know not how the king of Spain will be able to supply all places, where his assistance is required.

The Hollanders are very angry with the French for taking their ships.

An intercepted letter

D 11/1 Feb. 2657.

Vol. xlvii. p. 9.

Now I have not time to write much; therefore in brief I received by the last post yours of 19/29 Jan. And whereas you write you sent me a letter the last week before that to advise of your journey, no letter is come to my hands ere this last, since you landed in England. And thanks be to God for your good speed. I had yesterday an order made for me to have all the goods brought by an officer of this state from Bruges to this town, to be sold, which is a great favour, and I am going to Bruges to see all well done; but know not yet what to do for money to defray the charges requisite for keeping so long the goods, and to have all brought to this town. If possible, procure a sum considerable for me to desray the charges needful, until money can be had by sale of the goods, which is to be done speedily. Thereto can I say no more now. According to your written directions shall this be directed to you: if amiss, give better directions.

The duke of York is returned to Bruges. In haste,
Your faithful friend,
H. Le Guardi.

To mrs. Anna Bull in Duke-street, next door to the Lion Tavern.

A letter of intelligence from Mr. Blank Marshall.

Bruges. this 11 Feb. 1657. [N. S.]

Vol. xlvii. p. 16.

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Sir,
I Received yours by the last post: I was upon the closing of my other, so that I had no tyme to answer the particulars of that; and indeed that which you desyre to bee perticullarly informed concerneing those two ships, which should goe from Roterdam in october with arms. 48. 18. 73 to England. 27. 44. 2. 53. 14. or Scotland or Ireland. 77. 45. 3. 54. 15. 58. 71. 35. 72. 20. 45. 4. 54. 16. as I am a christian, I never hard of it, and I am confident there was no such thing, nor it could not bee but I had knowen of it. As for the strenght of shipping 36. 61. 37. 52. 29. in Dunkirk or Ostend. are nothing considerable, for I spoke with one yesterday morneing that lives. 39. 81. 21. 76 in Ostend. but wee are not freely admitted to goe there without passes 17. * * 38. 77. 78. 19. 17. 79. 56. 29. 60. 18. 80. 34. 19. 72. 2. 86. 38. 80. 31. 50. 85. 79. 64. 4. 75. 76. 20. 73. from Ch. Stew. but to Dunkirk wee are. Notwithstanding the proclamations of 10. 45. 1. 50. 2. 77. 37. 56. 54. 74. 57. don John to have the ports opened 70. 80. 18. 73. 57. 61. 62. 20. 52. 19. 17. yet the governor 82. 20. 72. 55. 60. 84. 69. of Ostend will not obey 7. 18. 94. in regard he has not order 70. 14. 19. 71. from Ch. Stew. who set him in his power. And for the number of soldiers 58. 83. 46. 17. 35. 22. 72. 74. that beelongs to Ch. St. are not two thousand: 60. 84. 76. 5. 55. 14. all of them want arms. 70. 50. 18. 75. For other recruits 11. 69. 85. 77. 19. 73. I see no apearance of any, for them that hee had here are lyke to starve 80. 4. 72. 81. 18. for 87. 1. want 80. Officers are glad 45. 3. 15 to feed 21. 22. 16. upon amunition 36. bread, 9. 70. 18. 4. 17. but they are promissed better, but when I know not. I was desyred by d. of Gloucester to goe to his quarters 4. 69. 80. 18. 70. 73. at 46. Loven 89. 54. Don John quarters 74. near Antwerp. 77. 87. 19. 71. D. York. and Midleton are not far 1. 69. from them. Ormond is 65. quartered 70. 80. 20. 71. 19. in Dam 3. 50. neer Bruges. where I have made choice in reguard of your business, which I have no mynd to neglect. K. Charles is to goe shortly to Bruxels. Were I in condition I should goe along with him, for your goods sells better ther then heere, for those comodities you sent mee last, came no sooner to my hands, but I was forced to give them to my creditors. It weare not amiss you hard how that sort of comodity you wold have, sells at Dunkirk and Ostend. which I shall stryve to informe you by the next. I wryt to you often of Newburgh and Middleton beeing in Amsterdam; 80. 20. 70. 15. 2. 49. but what was don I cannot well resolve you, but I have it from a good hand within this two dayes, that there is fifty ships 31. 35. 61. 18. 74. provyding in Holland 44. 45. 2. 54. 16. and to come to Dunkirk and Ostend. There is nothing from Middleton; for any thing I know hee has lost himselfe by the voyage. I have the hapiness to be great 191. 77. with the cheif ministers 54. 38. 76. 8. 20. 70. 75. of state 77. 4. 78. 18. heere, namely 48. 19. 44. Ormond, Hyde, and sir Edward Nicholas 72. 15. 55. 39. 12. 33. 56. 44. 3. 73. 13. secretary 80. 5. 72. 38. 18. So that you may bee confident, I shall have a care of your credit heere. Yesternight wee had the happiness to receive d. York. into our court again 69. 77. 2. 30. 3. 38. 5. 4. 18. beeing met by Ch. St. d. Glocester and the princess royal, 52. 10. 20. 75. 71. 56. 94. 45. 46. with many more of note, which made among us great joy. Monsieur Marseine, lieutenant general to prince Conde is here 77. 60. 63. 71. 38. 54. 11. 21. 12. 59. 52. 14. 18. is 33. 20. 21. 72. with Ch. Stew. and sitts at 64. privy council, 36. 18. 11. 57. 83. 54. 10. 18. 45. 46. and offers great matters; if his pryce be good or however it bee, I shall acquaint you by the next. Direct yours as formerly. I am confident at this tyme there is none that can give you a better pryce for your comodities then I offer you at present. By the next I shall acquaint you further. Untill then I committ you to the Almighty's protection. I rest and am,
Sir, your most obedient servant,
John Williams.

Lockhart to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. xlvii. p. 18.

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May it please your honor,
The dutchesse of Mercur's suddein death upon thursday morning last hath surprys'd this court in the midst of their excessive joyes. The cardinall is exceedingly afflicted for her losse; and I beleeve his sorrows are the more sensible, because her bringing foorth a chyld every yeare did contribute to the strenthning of his family. The queen is inconsolable, and the whole court is full of lamentations. Having the honor to wait upon his eminence yesternight, to condole his losse, I found him in so melancolie a posture, as by it I was ingadged to offer the compliments of condoleance in as much sincerity as if I had been concerned. He told me, the greatnesse of his own griefs did not hinder his interesting himself in his frends mercys, and offer'd to signify to his highnesse under his own hand, that he look'd upon his being delivered from two such dangerous plotts, as a good recompense for the losses he has sustained in his own family. When I was about to take leave, he thank'd me for forbearing to mention any thing of businesse at a tyme, when he was so unfitt for it; and after a little pause said, my civility did engadge him so much the more to mynd the apoyntment mentioned in my last; and so he sent for the persons I then naimed, before whom he discoursed his master's resolution concerning Dunkirk and Gravelinge and urged with all the appearance of zeale imaginable that Dunkirk should bee first 378. attempted. Mar Turenne in a long discourse held foorthe the impossibility of it, and pressed the ill consequences might follow upon their failinge 87. 302 in the first attempt, besyds the advantages wowld redown'd to Spain, it might occasione jealousies and differences betwixt England and France; and in conclusione did absolutly refuse the command of the army upon that account.

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I did employ the uttmost of the litle reason I have to perswade the attempting Dunkirk first, 283. but cowld not prevaile, and fownd their was trewth in what I was told (of which I gave an account in my last.) Turenne said that of 241. 10. Gravelinge would have it's own difficulties, but promised to undertake it, and by his indeavours in it, should expresse how great a respect he had for his highnes. 196. Mazarin told me at parting, that for all had past, he would not give over resolutions for the attempting Dunkirk. first; 283. and gave me so many reasons for it upon the account of his own interest, that I am verily perswaded his endeavors that way will be reall.

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After they were gone, he did communicate to me his intelligence from 179. Flanders and the Hague, 497. which are mentioned in the in closed 108. as mine from thence.

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I am promised audience upon monday, to the end the businesse concerning your design in Flanders may be hastned to a close. I ame also promised then his resolutiones about the ships 378. of which your honor gave me a hint in your last. Sir, the cardinal tells me of a design upon Newport in Flanders, 445. which he is willing to put in your hand. It hath been two years, in forming. The undertakers are of good repute, and will put their w i ves and ch il dren in your hands as surety for their performance of promise. The propositione is thus; they will receive at the Downs in their 44 ships called Be lan ders 318. a 1000 men; 100, and by reason of their constant trade 359. with that port, 56. they are never searched 108. and can enter at all hours. 276. The design seems not to be insaisible, and cannot be very expensive to you who may try it with a 1000 of the men 100. intended for France. They desyer three or four of your ships to be near 262. them. I shall desyer to know your honor's pleasure in this particular by the first opportunity, because they say it can be best done in the 378. spring 302. ty de of 303. March. 215.

I beseech your honor to pardon the trouble I give you by so many ciphers.

I am, may it please your honor,
your most humble and obedient servant,
Will. Lockhart.

Paris, Feb. 11/1, 1656/17.

The somm of my intelligence from Flanders.

Sexby did not goe for England at the tyme formerly mentioned: want of mony was the cause of his stay: he hath now received 14000 pieces of eight, will be in England by the 1st of Feb. old-style. He expresseth great regraitts, that the plott against his highness lyfe did not take, and giveth outt that he will loose his own rather then faile to accomplish that desygn. Don Alonzo lykewyse braggs, that the late discovery was but of a by businesse, and that the great desygn goeth on very happily, and needs feare no discovery.

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Ormond. assurs by his letters to the little queene, that Charles Stuart will land in England once in March with a body of 6000 foot and horse, with cannon and armes for 10000 more. He is resolved not to fight, but to secure himself in the landing-place he hath promised him, till the insurrections in the severall counties have so diverted his highness's forces, as he shall fynd litle oppositione.

Duke of York retorns upon assurance, that sir John Barcklay may be with him in qwyett; and that he shall be employed in no action against France; offers to venture his lyf in England, and its thoght, that for severall reasons he will be putt upon the forlorn hope.

From Holland I am advertised,

That the Spanish ambassador presseth the going of a Holland's fleet towards Cadiz, that they may give jealosie to ours, tho' they have not determined to engadge for the Spanyard. That from thence he hath sent two pinnaces to renconter two gallions, that come before the Spanish fleett, and hath advysed them to make all the saile they can for St. Sebastian.

The king of Spayn hath given liberty to the Hollanders to bring salt from Punta de Raya, which will be very prejudiciall to France. There is one Jarques Richard resident in Amsterdam (who is a greatt enemy to England) and offers to serve the Spaniard against Jamaica with a considerable strenth of shipps and men, and will supersede their payment, till the Spanyard have re-conquered that Iland.

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

Vol. xlvii. p. 46.

Right honorable,
The last weeke I was hindered by a flux of ruhme from answeringe your honor's letter then received, which spake the cominge of mr. Townley. Its heere matter of great joy and confidence in that party, as it's of woonderment to the Dutch, that nothinge was said to him at his arrivall, haveinge been soe strictly commanded back; and they are the more confirmed, that noethinge will be done to him more than his detention there, because his highness upon the presentinge of the company's petition, answered onely (as they say, for I knowe noe more,) that he would take the matter into consideration. Noe doubt, but if the company at London had soe pleased, they might by their owne authoritie have effected what they advised and enjoyned this court, without trublinge his highness therewith. I wish they had not brought me soe againe into the mouths of men, to the addinge of reproach unto me, as if I were a man soe unworthy and unmeete for that employment, as that not onely the authoritie of the company at London, which hitherto ever swayed in such cases, but allsoe the pleasure of his highness must be soe often contested aboute it, and that too by the most inconsiderable men in the company. For my owne part, if my being restored to the place, from which I was soe unworthily put for discharginge my trust, doe not concerne his highness in point of honor before strangers; and that it will but please him to repaire me some other way, (as I hope he will at last) I shall be well content theise men have their will in the choyce of their deputie, beinge well assured, that noe honest man shall have comfort in that employment, whilst in the dispose of such men. It onely trubles me to thinke what a reward the well affected will have for their faithfullness, if things goe on thus heere. I am forie to heare, that such bloudie designes are still on foote against his highness and the commonwealth. Blessed be God, who still disappoints them, as I hope he will ever doe; though it must needs minister much discomfort to his highness and his faithfull friends, to finde, that neither lenitie nor severitie will restraine those develish instruments, as noe doubt but it gives great hopes to the enemie, that one day he shall obtaine his end by such meanes. I heare he hath knighted Waites for his good service. I affectyonately remayne

Your honor's very humble servant,
Richard Bradshaw.

Hamb. 3d Feb. 1656/7.

Intelligence.

Hamb. 3° Feb. S. V. [165 6/7.]

Vol. xlvii. p. 45.

Letters from Vienna this post arrived contradict the late news of the duke of Transilvania's entrance into Poland, affirming only the said duke broke up from Zamos Wymar the 6th of Jan. S. N. &c. went for the county of Maxoworish, where the general rendezvous is appointed, and from thence, they say, he is resolved to march for Striga. However the imperialists confirm their jealousies of him, it being written from Breslaw, that their whole country hath took the alarm, and are preparing themselves for his visit, which they undoubtedly expect very shortly. In the low countries of Austria they fear also an invasion of the French, in as much as at the earnest request of the arch-duke of Inspruck, general Hunoldstein is said to be commanded thither with 2000 men for the opposing of the same. From Koningsberg it's said, his majesty of Swe den, and elector of Brandenburgh have been personally together at Preusch Holland from the 15th to the 20th of Jan. S. V. which time they wholly employed in conferring about their now instant treaty with the king and crown of Poland; as also in deliberations, how to continue and prosecute unanimously and most conveniently their warlike designs against them, if in case the said treaty prove not successfull to their contentments. Whereupon they parted in great confidence, and with incredible satisfaction to both, having found good, that the two electors privy-counsellors (the baron of Sweden and doctor Jehna) should follow his majesty for Marienburgh, and there continue with him, until the king of Poland's final resolution touching his majesty of Sweden's demand in præliminaribus ratione loci temporis et securitatis be come on. It's believed in regard of the extraordinary diligence and endeavours used both by the French and Dutch ambassadors in their mediation, that if the Poles be found as real in their desire of a composition, as his majesty of Sweden seems to be, a congress may be soon attained, and the business be brought to a good issue. Field-marshal Steinbock having joined himself with 6000 men to the elector's army (commanded at present by general Sparr) they are broke up together from Osterode, directly towards the borders of Mazuria, with an intention to root out that bloody and barbarous people, who have perpetrated such execrable murthers and villanies in the dominions of his said highness of late. They are in hopes also to meet with Czarnetzky by the way, having intelligence, that he hath burnt a town called Soldaw, but not daring to attain the castle belonging to it, hath formed his leager about two miles off the said place, being also upon the said borders of Mazuria; though it be this day falsly reported from Dantzick, that the said Czarnetzky is come on there with 1500 horse to fetch away the king thence, and so to go directly with all speed to Liessland, and join with the Muscovites, whom they likewise affirm to be re-entred that country with a formidable army, and to have already subdued two considerable places therein, the names whereof are variably related by them, in as much as there is also but small credit given to this report. The Dantzickers and Polish infantry have again committed an outrage upon a little town called Zolkemit, and wholly plundered the same, which might easily have been prevented by general Douglas, (who still continues with his regiments in the Werder,) but that he could not imagine that they would have been so desperate, as (in the so near passing of his quarters) thus imminently to hazard their utter ruin, if they had been so discovered. King Casimir hath been royally entertained by the president burgomaster of Dantzick the 22d past, and the following day by the abbot of Olive, upon which feasts it's said his majesty hath been most solemnly assured by the Dantzickers of their perpetual fidelity to him, and that they were resolved to hazard all, even to their utter destruction, in his service. The Danish affairs remain yet in the old posture. It's generally believed, they will hardy venture to leave their country for any design whatsoever, though they might have never so great hopes of effecting it. Some country people in Holstein alarmed by a false report of the approach of some Swedish regiments, are flying in abundance to this city; but we are since credibly informed, that the said flight is occasioned by the death of a nobleman in Holstein, who left a great estate to be divided by several of his friends, the chief part of which estate remaining in the hands of some, that think themselves the sole heirs, they excepted against and disproved the will of the deceased, refusing to share with the rest of their competitors; who thereupon applying themselves to the duke for justice, the said heirs found good for their better security to bring the goods which were in their possession to this city, whereof their neighbours, and at last the whole country about them receiving intelligence, being ignorant, and mistaking the reason thereof, took the alarm, and fled with the moveable goods hither. The Swedish field-marshal Wrangell is come to this town, whom prince Adolph, brother to the king of Sweden, (who is at Stoade at present) is to follow shortly.

The king of Denmark to the states-general.

Vol. xlvii., p. 50.

Nous Frederic III. par la grace de dieu Roy de Dannemarc, Noorwegue, des Vandales & des Goths, due de Sleuycq, Holstein, Stermersen, & Diemarsen, comte de Oldembourg & Delmenhorst, &c. departons nostre affecteueuse salutation & bonne volonté aux haults & puissants seigneurs le estatz generaux des provinces unies, nos tres amis, voisins, & alliez.

Haults & puissants seigneurs les estatz generaux, nos tres grands amis, allies, & voisins, L. H. S. sont bien informeez, en quelle maniere elles se sont interesses dans la procedeur violente, par la quelle depuis quelque temps en ca nos voisins les Suedois ont trouble en diverses facons, & diminué la navigation & commerce de la mer Baltique: pour cette raison il ont trouvé a propos d'encharger a leurs ambassadeur extraordinaires, qu'ils envoyerent l'année asse, & que se trouvent encores icy pour nous animer, non seulement a songer au remede d'oster ce trouble, mais de conclure aussi le 16 Aoust de l'année 1656. un bon traite de guarantie, a fin que le commerce & navigation de la del mer puisse estre maintenu en sa liberté, & specialement assister la ville de Dantzic, avec laquelle nous & les estats des provinces unies ont tous jours de temps immemorial une bonne intelligence, amitie, & correspondence, & prevenir & repousser le pernicieux dessein, & toute sorte de machination de ceux, qui taschent de reduire souz leur puissance tant ladite ville & port, que l' absolutum dominium maris Baltici. Nous avons aussi a cette fin, & a l'instance de vos seign, incontinent apres la conclusion de ladite guarantie envoyé nos vaisseaux royaux dans la mer Baltique, pour y joindre la flotte de seign. & agir ensemble pour parvenir au but commun, qu'on s'etoit propose de part & d'autre; mais d'autant que de la part de Suedois on a conceu tant de mauvaise volonté, qu'on s'est declare de en vouloir venger contre nous & nos royaumes de sorte ouvertement, que nous en craignons, non sans sujet, une invasion inopinée, & que ledit trouble ne cesse pas encore; mais qu'il continue, & que lad. ville de Dantzic nous a faict n'agueres nouvelles prieres & instances pour entre prendre sa defence, & avancer le cours du commerce, nous avons resolu pour plusieurs raisons tres importantes, dont nous ferons part au plustost a vos seign. comme aussi pour la seureté de nos royaumes, duchez, & autres terres, pour faire cesser les troubles, pour proteger le commerce commun & civil de toute parte, & pour conserver une ville voisine & bien affectionée de tout temps, laquelle a esté compriseé dans la paix de Bromsbro, sans parler de nous & des interests de vos seign, qui sont si notables pour prendre les armes, puisque nous avons remarqué, que les Suedois n'ont point envie de vivre paisiblement avec nous, ou d'actuer les traitez, qui ait este entamez, ainsi qu'il appert par le partement du resident & deputé Durelius, qui en a deja rompu la negotiation, sans laisser aucune esperance a un bon accommodement. De facon qu'un apres dieu nous ne pouvous trouver aucune asseurance pour nos royaumes, duchez, & seign. qu'en prennant les armes; esperant qu'il plaira a l'eternel de le benir & de donner un bon succes a nostre intention & celle de vos seign. Partant nous croyons firmement, que vos seign. ayant si genereusement commerce avec nous, elles passerent outre pour concerter maintenant de ce point, & seconder nos intentions, qui ne tirent qu'au bien commun, a la manutention & liberté du commerce de la mer Baltique, & au restablissement d'une paix generale & perpetuelle; & qu'elles nous feront pour ce sujet de tout leur pouvoir toute sorte de secours & d'assistance. Et d'autant que cela est conforme a la nouvelle alliance & a la bonne, & parfaicte intelligence, qui a este tousjours entre nous & vos seign. comme aussi a leurs propres interests, defences des provinces unies, & prosperite du commerce, nous l'esperons indubitablement, & sommes prests de la recognoitre, & de nous en vanger a vos seign. Donné dans nostre chatteau de Copenhagen le 13/3 Feb. 1657.

De vos seigneuries le tres affectueux amy allie & voisin,
Frederic.

The Dutch embassadors in Denmark to the states-general.

Vol. xlvii. p. 43.

H. and M. lords,
After that his majesty of Sweden had received full advice and information of all things, and also understood the mind and intention of his majesty, and the lords senators of Poland, he said, he could wish there were shewn more inclination and intention to peace on that side. That he would communicate the same to the duke of Brandenburgh, and consult with him about it; whereupon we thought fit to communicate to the lords ambassadors of the said duke all that had happened, and had been negotiated in the Polish court, who undertook to speak likewise with his majesty of Sweden about it. We received by the last post your H. and M. L. secret resolution of the 24^th of the last month; according to the contents whereof we will punctually regulate ourselves, and endeavour to effect your H. and M. L. serious and good intention. It is not yet known, to what part of the kingdom his majesty of Poland is retreated.

Marienburgh, 13 Feb. 1657. [N. S.]

Huybert.
Isbrants.

From mr. Vincent Gookin.

In the possession of Joseph Jekyll, Esq.

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Sir,
The debate in the house touching the bill of decimation forced G o o k i n s attendance there, that he could not doe soe much in that businesse promised in his of the 27th of Jan. The bill was cast out; and therupon many of the majors g e n e ralls, &c. complained to H. H, how much the house therby reflected on him, and discouraged the godly; and that their ayme was to pass noething, that might tend to his accomodation; and that they wowld rayse no money, &c. To which hee answered, that hee hoped better things of them. Next day the house with a great deale of cheerfullness voted 400000 l. to be forthwith levied to carry on the Spanish war, which his highnesse tooke exceeding kindly, and exprest himself very affectionately to the committeee of the parliament sent to him about that businesse. Those that were for the decimation-bill, it was plainely perceived, were exceeding cold in the debate for raysing money, and seemed to repine, that the parliament did soe well. I am confident, it is judged by some, that the interest of the godly cannot be preserved but by the dissolution of this, if not all parliaments; and their endeavours in it have bin plainely discovered to the party most concerned to know them; which will I believe sudenly occasion a reducing of the g o v e r m, &c. to k i n g ship, &c. to which H. H. is not averse. P i e r p o i n t and S n t J o h n s have been often, but secretly, at W h i t e h a ll, I know to advise thereof. I doubt not but by the blessing of God all will doe well, and setlement aryse to the nation out of the averseness of men against it; as good laws are extracted out of bad manners. I was by 22 2 18 19 this post advised to enquire, what truth there was in a report there of D's c o m i n g o v e r. There is no such thing, nor the least ground for it, more than what the anabaptists may apprehend it may doe to harten and dishearten. H. H. friday night last before T h u r l o Sir P i c k e r i n g, and R tooke occasion to speake of L. H; and gave him the highest and well grounded aplauses imaginable with t e a r s of joy on his c h e k e s and concluded with this expression, which I must not forget, that H. H. might learn of him. I cannot but smile to thinke, what a simple owlish game your enimies have play'd, to make lyes to such a f at h e r, upon such a s o n. Pray take notice, that these words were spoken before Sir G i l b e r t, who, H. H. well knowes, tells all to L. D.; and therefore be assured it was spoken, that it might be noted. Your friends are hugely pleased to see things foe handsomely ripen towards a perfect setlement. The major-generalls are much offended at the Irish and Scottish members, who being much united doe sway exceedingly by their votes. I hope all will be for the best; or if the proverb be true, that the fox fares best, when he is curst, those that serve for Ireland will bring home some good things for theyr country. W o r s l y desired me earnestly to write to H. H. to dispense with his longer stay here, and that the publique businesse wowld much sufferr in his going hence before. His engagement in the affaire of the adventurers can with lesse losse to the publique admitt of his going hence. I have presumed to write to H. H. who I hope will moove my lord Henry in it. Sir, I cannot forbeare to say, that Le. L a m b e r t hath discovered, what I formerly thought by this last businesse. I hope y R nor any of that party shall ever be entrusted with l e t t i n g l a n d s. I desire I may have notice of your receipt of my letters, that I may be out of feare, that they are intercepted. Col. Markham sets forward from London within ten days: I thinke I shall not be long after him. I heare mr. Gookin is accepted of to be one of the commissioners for setting of lands, in whose company I intend to goe. My hart longs to be with you, or where I may be most serviceable to a person, to whome I ame
Westm. Feb. 3d, 1656–7.

Soe much a servant, &c.

To your frend and mine.

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

In the possession of Joseph Jekyill, Esq.

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My lord,
I received your lordship's, which came by this post; as also, that which came over to his highnes, which I delivered with my owne hands, and we assure your lordship he doth very well accept what you have sayd therein. When he had read it, he **** ab u r nt tell t i t. I have alsoe acquainted hym with what you write touchinge El C o l o Teh o m l i n s o n and he doth fully agree with you therein, and will doe accordingly.

I suppose you will heare at large from other hands, what is become of the bill for decimateinge the cavaleirs. It had many very solemne dayes of debates, and at last it was throwne out; and there beinge a division of the house upon the question, it was carryed for the ejectinge of it by fortie voices. Some gentlemen doe thinke themselves much trampled upon by this voet, and are extreamely sensible thereof; and the truth is, it hath wrought such a heate in the house, that I feare little will be done for the future. The next day the same persons, who had stickled against the bill, moved, that the house would raise money for the carryeinge on the Spanish warre, and voted, that they would raise 400,000 l. over and above what can be raised by the government for that purpose; and they are now in a grand committee consideringe the ways of it, and I beleave they will come to a land-tax; for I see noe other probable way of doinge it effectually. Besides that there are here varietie of oppinions about the longer sittinge of the parlament. What the resolution wil be, I am not able to say. Nothinge hath come from Sweden or Poland this weeke; very considerable thinges remeyne much in one state as to those parts. I feare the Dutch have noe very good intentions towards us they are prepareinge a fleet, and are alsoe upon a private treatie with Spayne, and its more than probable they may be engaged by Spayne to become our enemies, which wil be considerable as to men. But if the lord continue to be with us, wee shall not feare, though all nations rise up against us.

Your lordship's most obedient, faithfull servant,
Jo. Thurloe.

3 Feb. 1656.

Ambassador Dorp to the states-general.

Dantzick, 14 Feb. 1657. [N.S.]

Vol. xlvii. p. 52.

H. and M. lords,
My Lords, the king went from hence on the 9th instant, as we advised your H. and M. L. in our last; but whither his majesty is gone, is not certain, only it is said, that he hath taken Lawenbergh in his passage, and hath fir'd the city; but of this we have no other certainty, only that last night a great fire was seen here, which they guest to be about the said place. The lord Ysola, envoy of the emperor to the Polish court, went along with the king. Some Polish troops have plundered and destroyed two or three small places about Elbing.

The bishop of Ermeland and the lord Guldensterne are left here, and ordered by the king to receive the answer of the king of Sweden upon the proposition, which the lords ambassadors of their H. and M. L. are gone to carry to the Swedish court.

F. Van Dorp.

Lockhart to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. xlvii. p. 196.

May it please your honor,
Mr. de Lions hath been with me this morning to excuse my not having audience this two dayes by-past, and hath promised I shall not saile to have one to morrow, this day being employed in the pretensions to mortification and repentance for the revels and excesses of the two proceeding.

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Mr. Turrene gave me a visit monday last, and did earnestly desyer that his oppinion concerning Dunkirk may not prejudice him in your esteem 343. 204. desyers a judgment of him may be suspended till he have opportunitie to express himselfe in actions. I entertained him with the utmost of my respect and caresse, and gave him the most advantageos assurances I could think on. Sir, I shall hartily pray, that the ill news the last post broght me of your indispositione, may be changed by the next into the good ones of your recovery; and begg your beleef, that none can desyer the continuance of your health and increase of your happynesse with greater zeale then doth,
May it please your honor,
your most humble and obedient,
W. Lockhart.

Paris, 4/14 Feb. 1656–7.

Resident Sasburgh to the states-general.

Vol. xlvii. p. 58.

H. and M. Lords,
My lords, the letters from Dunkirk of the 10th currant do inform us, that since the prizes taken by capt. Sable, there are three more taken by capt. Erasmus Brouwer, two English, and one Portugal ship laden with sugars, hides, and other commodities, and brought in there; that they hope the fourteen new frigates will be within a few days ready to set sail. They write also from thence, that they have certain advice, that gen. Blake with his fleet is in the harbour of Lisbon, and that it is impossible for him to hinder what the Spanyards intend. That his fleet is in a very sad condition, and unprovided of all things. They add also, that the lord protector hath sent for him home, but was forced (as impossible) to excuse the same, till he be better provided.

The duke of York is returned to Bruges, and perfectly reconciled with the king his brother thro the endeavours of the princess royal. They are busy in that place about very considerable affairs; but the particulars are not yet known.

I was told yesterday for certain, the Spanish fleet of Cadiz was gone to sea; and that it was hoped, that the silver fleet would be in salvo before the English could be ready.

H. and M. lords
T. Van Sasburgh.

Brussells, 15/2 Feb. 1657.

A letter of intelligence from the Hague.

Samedy 10 Fevr. 1657. [N. S.]

Vol. xlvii. p. 64.

Ily a eu une lettre ou liste des disserents & disputes a Boileduc, envoyé par le sieur Bergaigne escoutet; comme aussy besoigne touchant les differents & pleintes de ceux des Oldamtes contre ceux de Groningue.

II y a aussy en un memoire du deputé d'Ostfrise, plaignant, qu'on le chargeoit de temps en temps de nouvelles charges & scrupules; disants que les estats generaux faisoient ensemble les accusateurs & les juges. Ce qu'on a mal prins, mais en a respondu, que ledit deputé estoit un deputé des estats: & que ici les estats de meme ne font que deputes des estats, au moins que les estats d'Ostfrize ne font pas sujets de cest estat.

Lundy le 12 Fevr.

A Goes en Zeelande il y grande division, y estant eleu 2 sortes de rentmeysters ou magistrats: le Bailly est chef d'une bande, ceux de Vander Nisse de l'autre. Les derniers ayants la plus grande multitude de la burgoisie, & craignants que le bailly ayant pluralité dans les estats de Zeelande n'y sacent venir des soldats, y ont bragué le canon, & font garde contre ceux, qui voudroient venir de dehors.

Le mem. de l'ambassadeur de Spaigne pour fair passer 500 soldats levés au pays de Holstein est mis es mains du conseil d'estat.

Derechef & encore est resolu & conclu quelque chose dans l'affaire d'Ostsrise. Le deputé du due d'Ostsrise a fait pleinte contre la ville d'Emden touchant certains 2400 Rycxdollars par an, que la ville doit; ce qui est mis es mains des commissaires.

Le prince Guliaume a escrit des lettres aux estats & aux membres de Hollande contenant qu'il est le plus proche a la charge de mareschal de camp, & que les services de son pere, srere, & ayeux & meritent quelq; consideration.

Mardy le 13 Fevr.

Ensin sont venus icy les deputes de tous colleges de l' admirauté (horsmis de Frise) ayants notisié leur venue aux estats generaux. Messieurs de Hollande proposerent, qu'on devroit requerir le sieur admiral Opdam a comparoistre dans & avec ces deputes, mais pour encore les autres dirent, que n'estant pas resolu, si une flotte iroit, il n'estoit pas besoin; mais les deputes entreront en besoigne.

L'on n'a que simplement memoré l'affaire de mareschal de camp, sans la proposer pour donner loisir, & ofter aux autres la pleinte de precipitance.

Le partie de Vander Nisse a Goes est en possession & maistre; & pour prevenir que des soldats ne viennent dans les forts sur le havre (qui a present font vuides) l'on aura resolu d' y envoyer des bourgeois. Ce qui toutefois sera penible pour les bourgeois, & fe parle de lever quelques Wartgelders.

Mecredy 14 Fevr.

Le traite de marine sur le concept d'Angleterre a esté sur le tapis, & specialement, si l'on traitera les capitains, ayants commission du roy d'Escosse a Bruges, comme pirates, & desavoyes, comme l'Angleterre veut, & la plus part incline qu'ouy. Demain ce seroit resumé.

Les deputes des admirautes ont esté ensemble entre eux, & ont requis des deputes de l'assembleé; a quoy sont nommes le sieur Huygens & autres, qui demain entreront en conference.

De Dennemarck s'escrit encore, qui ce roy est tout resolu a faire levees, & pour s'engager, si seulement c'est estat le veut; mais sous mains se dit, que S. M. ne laissera pas de s'engager, quand bien c'est estat ne veuille.

La notification des ensans de l'lsle par l'ambassadeur de Spagne est notifieé au pere a Amsterdam.

Le roy de Swede & l'electeur auront nommé Braunsbergh pour le lieu du traité; & que pour la rendre neutrale l'on y mettra 400 hommes de ceux de cest estat, qui sont a Dantsick.

Jeudy, 15 Fevr.

Aujourd'huy a esté rapporté de la conference tenüe entre les deputes dé l'admiraute icy a present assembles, qu'ils desirent favoir, sur quel nombre de navires, & fur quel defsein ils aviseront; sur quoy est resolu, que demain seront mis en leurs mains les pieces & resolutions appartenantes a la besoigne.

L'on a en aussy sur le tapis derechef le traité de marine aveque Angleterre; sur lequel il y a en diversité d'avis, si que demain cela sera resumé.

Le envoye du prince d'Orange; puis que le mariage n'est pas allé a la princesse Henriette d'Orange; puis que le mariage n'est pas allé avant, mais la princesse y fait quelque difficulté.

Il y en grand debat pour la traité de marine avec l'Angletterre; & specialement comment traiter les gens du roy d'Escosse; ce qui encor est demeuré hors de conclusion.

L'affaire du mareschal de camp de meme a esté mis sur le tapis: et la plus part ayants declares leurs inclinations pour le prince Guliaume ont requis les autres a se declarer aussy.

A letter of intelligence from the Hague.

Vol. xlvii. p. 64.

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Monsieur,
L'on est maintenant en deliberation de 2 choses, l'une est touchant le traité de marine avec l' Angleterre, l'autre touchant l'equipage: en quoy les estats d'Hollande (car iceux font tout en cela, implent utramq; paginam) ont en meme temps l'une oeil sur l'Oost & l'autre sur le West. Ils sont tres impatiens de voir, qu'on pretend de leur faire la moindre visitation en mer; voyants ou craignants, que cela leur donneroit quelque diversion dans le libre commerce, lequel a present vers le West ils ont quasi tout seuls veu que ceux de Cromwel et France en sont enclus. Et si ceux de Cromwel & France quitent et relaschent cette visitation en mer, ceux de les estats d'Holland auront un indicible avantage et profit, et donneront la loy par tout: et non obstant le traité qu'ils font, ou feront, ou ratifieront, ils ne cesseront d' ayder le Dennemare et le Poland directe vel indirecte. Tant y a que les estats d'Hollande ont dessein d'equipper une grande flotte, ceux de estats d'Holl. continuent a s'opposer fort contre Grave Guillaume Ce qui est en effect avancer le prince d'Orange, et toute fois ils ne veulent nullement avoir le nom de vouloir du bien & le prince d'Orange. Je seray court, et suis,

Monsieur,
Votre tres humble, &c.

Ce 16 Fevr. 1657. [N. S.]

Marigny to Stouppe.

Hague, 16 Feb. 1657. [N.S.]

Vol. xlvii. p. 65.

I Confess to you, I cannot comprehend why our friend doth not discover to you freely the danger, which the jewels run; and why he writes no oftner to you than he doth. If he had believed my advice, he would not have given credit to all that which was writ unto him before he lest London, and would not have been in the trouble he is at present. His silence may chance to be his ruin. Je vous suis fort obligé du soin que vous prenez de solliciter le Talleau, que l'on s'opiniastre a vous refuser: vous pouvez dire a cette belle opiniastre, qu'il y a bien autant de cruaute que d'orgueil en son faict, & que je suis non obstant tout cela son tres humble serviteur, & des autres belles, qui veulent bien sousfrir qu'on voye icy leurs peintures.

I make no doubt but you have heard, that the king of England hath desired of the prince monsieur de Marchin, for to be captain general of his army. If he had had such generals, when he was in England, his affairs had been in a better condition than they are. The duke of York is perfectly reconciled with the king his brother, and the reconciliation made after the best manner. They expect here the princess royal within eight or ten days.

Courtin to Bordeaux, the French embassador in England.

Hague, 16 Feb. 1657. [N. S.]

Vol. xlvii. p. 67.

My lord,
The report, which has been spread in these provinces for some days, that the king of Denmark doth make great preparations for war both by sea and land, to oppose the designs of the Swedes, hath occasioned the states-general to take a resolution beforehand, in case they be sollicited to engage with those of Denmark, to demonstrate unto him, that they have lately concluded a treaty with the king of Sweden, who doth assure them of freedom of commerce upon the Baltick-sea, for the preservation whereof they sent last year a powerful fleet upon the coast of Dantzick; and now that they have obtained what they desired, they are not of advice to break with Sweden, in regard their arms cannot procure them greater advantages than they have at present by virtue of their treaty, if so be the king of Sweden do ratify it, notwithstanding the alteration made in one of the articles.

The states-general do what they can to dissuade the king of Denmark from his design, and to invite him to an accommodation with Sweden rather than a war.

One of the ambassadors of this state at Dantzick writes, that the resident of the emperor, in a visit, declared to him, that the treaty between the king of Poland and the emperor was concluded; and that the effects would be soon seen. The resident also desired the said ambassador to assure the states-general of the affection of the emperor in their behalf, and to declare unto them, that he desireth to live in good amity with them.

Mr. Boreel doth still continue writing to this state, that France hath still a design to prejudice these provinces through the interruption of their commerce, and the taking of their ships. It is said he touched upon the lord protector in his narrative, of whom he complains.

An intercepted letter.

Hague, 16 Feb. 1657. [N.S.]

Vol. xlvii. p. 69.

Sir,
For news I know none, but what our own trading and merchandize concerneth, which is, that your little master trades not at all for himself, but he is now with mr. Broom, and hath the sole management of all his affairs. 'Tis generally believed amongst us, that he will make a very advantageous place of it. 'Tis reported here, that the French have taken some of the states ships, but not believed amongst us. 'Tis believed and spoke by the Dutch themselves, that they shall have a war with France; if they have, you may guess what kind of trading we are like to have.

To mr. Eubanck at mr. Seale's a stationer in Fleetstreet.

Boreel, the Dutch embassador in France, to Ruysch.

Vol. xlvii. p. 71.

My Lord,
The gentleman of the horse of the lord ambassador of Venice hath signified to this court, how that that commonwealth, through the continual and earnest instances of the present pope Alexander VII. and to gratify him, hath agreed, that the jesuits shall be re-established again to live and have their residence in the city of Venice, upon sufficient promises and conditions, that they shall well and decently behave themselves towards the government. This is a very strange and unexpected issue, for by the writings of the Jansenists it is demonstrated, that the jesuits morality is not only contrary to that of the christians, but also it is contrary to the morality of the heathens or any wise well ordered people, as I believe your lordship will have seen in the writings of the said Jansenists.

Paris 16 Feb. 1657. [N.S.]

W. Boreel.

Extract out of the register of the resolutions of the high and mighty lords states-general of the United Netherlands.

Veneris, the 16^th of Feb. 1657. [N. S.]

Vol. xlvii. p. 72.

There being once more mentioned in the assembly the disposal of the charge of field-marshal of this state being vacant thro' the death of lord Broderode, after deliberation had, it is thought fit and understood herewith again to desire the unprepared provinces, that they will speedily declare themselves concerning the same. The lords commissioners of the province of Holland and Westfriezland desired the provinces, that they will first declare themselves upon their provincial advice concerning that subject made to the assembly.

A paper of the states of Friezland.

Vol. xlvii. p. 80.

The states of Friezland having examined the treaty between the king of Sweden's commissioners on the one side, and the lords extraordinary ambassadors of this state on the other side, concluded at Elbing in Prussia on the 1/11 September 1656, have thought fit to ratify, and do hereby ratify the said treaty, provided that by their ratification the treaty of guaranty, concluded at Copenhagen the 16th of August 1656, between the king of Denmark and this state, be not prejudiced; but that the said treaty shall remain entire and in its full force and vigor.

Done this 17th of Feb. 1657. [N. S.]

Agreeth with the original.
P. Van Doma.

The Spanish embassador to the states-general.

Lectum den 17 Februarii 1657. [N.S.]

Vol. xlvii. p. 83.

Le soussigné ambassadeur de Spaigne ayant esté adverti, qu' entre autres conditions, qui se pretendroient de la part du governement præsent du royaume de Angleterre pour le traité de marine a faire avec ces provinces, on demanderoit, que les captaines de vaisseaux, qui iroient en mer avec commissionis et bannieres du seren. roy de la grande Bretaigne, seroient tenus et traites comme pirates, il a creu estre de son devoir, pour l' interest que le roy son maistre prend dans ceux du susdit roy, luy ayant accordé libre entrée et retraite aux havres de toutes ses estats, de remonstrer a messieurs les estats generaux l' evidente iniquité de cette demande (a laquelle il ne se peut persuader que L.L. S.S. consentent, ny facent de gayeté de cœur un si rude affront a un roy legitime, dont les predecesseurs aut tant contribué a la grandeur de leur estat, outre les inconvenients, qui resulteroient notoirement d'une telle declaration, qui animeroit plusieurs a prendre les dites commissions sous l'espoir de faire de riches butins, puisque les dits capitaines usant du droit naturelle de talion l' auroient de traiter en pyrates les vaisseaux et subjects de cest estat, qui tomberoient entre leurs mains, au lieu que jusques a present ils les ont traites en amis, et avec toute bonne correspondence, ce qu'il prie et requiert L.L. S.S. de vouloir peser et considerer avec leur prudence et circumspection accoustumée. Fait a la Haye le 17. de Fevrier 1657. Signé

Gamarra.

To the Venetian agent.

Antwerp 17 Feb. 1657. [N. S.]

Vol. xlvii. p. 76.

King Charles and his brother the duke of York are fully reconciled, and the earl of Bristol is now going ambassador extraordinary from the said king to the king of Spain, from whom they cannot expect much assistance at present, except it be for the maintenance of his court, in regard Spain hath many places to provide for, and is resolved to do their utmost against Portugal. But if so be the fleet do not get home safe, there will be little hopes of doing any good for themselves or their friends.

The fleet in Cadiz is said to be ready to set sail to go meet the silver fleet, upon whose welfare much depends.

Nouvelles de Bruxelles du 10 Fevrier [1657. N. S.]

Vol. xlvii. p. 86.

I'L y avoit un traité, qui se faisoit entre la France & mons. le prince de Condé, qui etoit commencé depuis quelques semaines; toutes choses etans conclues et accordees de part & d'autre, lors qu'on etoit sur le point de signer le traité, le cardinal Mazarin a cherché un pretexte par tout rompre, ce qui a fort fâche mons. le prince et tous ceux de sa cour, qui esperoyent de retourner bientot en France.

Le roy d' Espaigne a fait dire a mons. le prince, qu'il luy permettoit de traitter en particulier, et memes qu'il seroit bien aise, qu'il put s' accommoder, & que de son coté il esperoit, que par l' entremise du pape & par le negotiations du nonce il pourroit aussi faire la paix avec la France, pour employer toutes ses forces contre l' Angleterre. Mons. le prince a eté fort etonné de ce que le roy d' Espaigne luy a fait dire, et il commence a craindre, que le roy d' Espaigne ne face son traitté sans l'y comprendre. Le roy d' Espaigne peut etre donne cette permission a mons. le prince, parce qu'il scait bien, que le cardinal n'est pas disposé a s'acommoder avec le prince.

Le roy d'Espagne a fait prier mons. le prince de Condé de bailler mons. de Marsin au roy d' Ecoste, pour etre general des trouppes, ce qu'il n'a pu refuser. Ledit mons. de Marsin est allé a Bruges voir le roy d' Ecosse, pour consulter ensemble touchant leurs affaires. Ils ont six mille hommes, & ils esperent d'en recevoir beaucoup plus d' Allemagne, & je scay qu'on a remis a Vienc une bonne somme d' argent pour faire ces levees.