State Papers, 1657: December (3 of 6)

December (3 of 6)

Mareschal Turenne to Bordeaux, the French embassador in England.

Amiens, 21 Dec. 1657. [N. S.]

Vol.lvi.p.94.

My lord,
I have received the letter, which you writ to me by the paquet-boat, that was taken; wherein you writ me word, that the lord protector was resolved to send some of his infantry to Mardyke. You must confirm him in that mind; and that it is necessary to send some palisades, there being nothing so requisite as them for the preservation of the place. Monsr. the mareschal D'aumont is gone thither with a good recruit. I pray write to me what passeth where you are; you will very much oblige me.

It is very certain, that the enemy hath a design to besiege Mardyke, and doth prepare all that he can. Therefore there must be nothing neglected; for there is all the likelihood in the world, that they will assault it.

Lockhart, embassador in France, to Bordeaux, the French embassador in England.

In the possession of Joseph Ratcliffe of the Inner-Temple esq.

My lord,
I Had the honour to receive from a friend's hand the dispatch, which came by the expresse; and, in my obedience to these commands I have gott, shall answer my duty to him that gave them, and my obligation to him whome they concerne. I shall not at any time trouble you with the particulars of the progresse of that businesse, but shall communicate them fully to the aforesayd freind, whose precautions and orders I shall punctually follow; and hope hee shall beare witnesse for mee, that I pursue the interest of that affayre with noe lesse zeale, then if there depended upon its successe every thing, that can bee accounted deare to
Paris, 11/21 Dec. 1657.

Your excellencie's most humble and obedient servant.

Lord Broghill to secretary Thurloe.

Youghall, the 11th of Dec. 1657.

Vol.lvi.p.98.

Deare sir,
The last night I received the honnor and favor of yours of the 1st instant, and shall not fayle to use my best endeavors to get all my cuntrymen to attend this sessions of parliament; tho' the greate expenses they were lately at, and the greate taxes they pay heere, will render it very difficult, if not impossible for som of them. But since ther is a likelyhoode of needinge their services, I shall turne every stone to obey your commands. I hope in the Lord the worst of my fit is over, and that now, in a fortnight, I may be able to goe to sea: I shall not looseany time.

I have now noethinge to trouble you with, but my humble and harty thanks for the very oblidginge expressions of your last; by which, and by many other signall obligations you have bound me (if there be any truth in me) to be whilst I live,
Deare sir,
Your most faithfull, most humble, and most affectionate servant,
Broghill.

I will write to my lord-deputy also, to lay his commands upon all members of parliament neere him, to be at London the beginninge of the sessions.

Mr. S. Disbrowe, one of the council of Scotland, to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvi.p.100.

Right honorable,
I have not of late visited you with my lines, having had nothing to communicate worthy your trouble; and at present have only to let you knowe, that according to his highnes comands, signifyed by his letter dated the 17th of September last, the eouncill here have ordered the auditor-generall to accompt with my lord Wariston and sir John Chesly, with the former for what termes or parts of his fees and pensions, which had been given him to enable him to publique service, and were owing to him as lord of the sessions, and clerke of the registers during the time he served in those places; which accompt being stated to the councill by the auditor-generall, it is found to amount in the whole to 1267 l. 2 s. 9 d. sterl. Viz.

This money is not yet payd; and some of the councill doe something question, whether the pensions ought to be payd, considering, that fees are allowed for those places he served the state in.

Sir John Chesly his accompt is likewise stated, and amounts in the whole to 713 l. 6 s. 8 d. Viz.

And the said sir John having never done any considerable service as master of requests, its doughted by some, whither his highnes was informed what the sumes might amount unto, as to the one or the other: and money being short in the publique treasury here, hath made the council slow as to giving out orders for the payment thereof, especially having those doubts above-mentioned. If you would please to give your thoughts herein, it would be very satisfying to others as well as,
Sir,
Your most humble and saythfull servant, Sam Desbrowe.

Edinburg, the 11th Dec. (57.)

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

Vol. lvi. p. 119.

Right honorable,
As the greatest part of Itally has bin much afflicted for these two yeares with a siknes, so now it suffers much by raynes, which hav not hetherto permitted the contryman to til or sow the ground, in so much that a derth is unavoydably lyk to follow. The swourd lykwys has or wil play its part, for the French ar masters of the field in the state of Millan, having a continual suply of new forces from France; and next spring threaten a deeper invasion into the hart of it, to compleat its misery. Ther may be a kynd of providence in it (I am certain ther is much of justis and equity) that thos nations, who formerly hav bin so tiranyzed by this, should each of them one tym or other hav a share in afflicting Itally. At Rom the raynes hav bin so vyolent, that the torrent has born down part of the mountayn and much of the wal of the Quirinal whylst the pope was present. My correspondent wryts me thence, that as Noah's flood was in the year of the wourld 1657, so we being now in the sam year of our Lord, they did fear another deluge. Althoh he would seem witty in his glossing, yet I am certain 'tis only God's mercy in long forbearance, that keeps them from such a judgment; for the piple of the ould world wer never half so bad as thes. The cardinal Antonio Barbarin, who cam latly from France, has bin at Modena to vizit that duk, and thence goes to Rom.

This week is arryved here an Inglish ship from Tunis, which confirms the taking of a smale Inglish ship laden with currance for Ingland; which ship they ar setting out for a man of war, and seaven others, wherof three carry thirty guns a peice. If your honor would pleas to imploy your power with his hyhnes towards the sending into thes seas a squadron of frigats, you would exceedingly oblidge both marchants and sea-men, and advance our navigation; for peace may be had with Tunis and Tripoly for asking; and when that is effected, they may attend the suppressing the Majorkins, or any other servis his hyhnes may command them. I assure your honor, if that should succeed, which is so much talkt of every-wher (wars with the Dutch) it would be good pollicy to be beforhand with them in thes seas, as they wer with us last bout. All which your honor may in wisdom consider, and excuse herin the bouldnes of,
Leghorn, 22d Dec. 1657. [N.S.]

Right honorable, Your most humble and faithfull servant, Charles Longland.

I am stil an humble supplicant to your honnor about the trade propounded on the coast of Mosambik as far as Zacatora yland, in form and manner conteyned in the articles delivered your honor by mr. Goodwin, that you would be plesed to procure me a patent, ether from his hyhnes or the Est-India company; which by your honor's recommendation may esilly be had ether way. First, the company mak not the lest use of the trade in that vast tract of ground, nether hav they really any intent or infyght thereinto; the truth wherof they must needs confes, if his hyhnes cal for them, and demand it of them: so his hyhnes may as frely grant me a pattent of what they make no use of, as he has alredy granted them the pattent for the Est-India trade. I humbly conceiv it is contrary to the true intent of his hyhnes pattent, that they should keep in theyr power such large territoryes, without making the lest use of them; nether do I any thing els in this my request, then siek the companye's benefit; for I hav offered in this my intended trade, if they wil becom advanturers, for ten or twenty thousand pounds, to double theyr money in fower yeares (as good a benefit as the Est-India trade ever made them in the best tymes). I could wish his hyhnes or his right honorable councel would accept of this offer; I should rather hav them for my masters then the Est-India company. Althoh I hav got the experience of this intended trade here abroad amongst strangers, yet I utterly deny the interest of any stranger therin, but only our own nation: so that if your honor will pleas to favour me with your patronage herin, I shal imediately desyre your lycence to leav this countrey, and repair hom for Ingland, wher I shal ever acknolledge myself,
Right honnorable,
Your most humble and gratefull servant, Charles Longland.

A letter of intelligence.

Hamburgh, 22d Dec. 1657. [N. S.]

Vol. lvi. p. 108.

Right honorable,
Grave Oxenstern is departed this world: his majesty is at Wismar. Here is a report, there will be a treaty with Poland. I can hear nothing from Denmark. The commandant of this town is gone for Denmark: he is a good soldier. The Dane will levy 10000 against the spring, if he can get them. The Danes will not stand. A few forces of the Swede, about 800 strong, marched into the marshes of Gluckstadt and Crimp, to gather in contribution, met with a party of the Danes, about 800 or 1000, took a few of them, and beat the rest into Crimp.

Sir William Vavasour is still in town; how the king will look on him, a short time will shew it: I fear he hath lost himself.

I am sorry your lordship did not get into the Elve. I cannot learn, that the small ship is arrived: I pray God send good news.

Extract out of the Resolutions of the lords states of Holland, taken in their assembly upon saturday the 22d of December 1657. (N. S.)

Read, the 3d of January, 1658.

Vol. lvi. p. 102.

There being debated by resumption, upon the report and advice of the of the lords their noble mighty lordships commissioners for the affairs of Sweden and Denmark, mentioned more at large in the notes of the 5th instant: After due consideration had of all particulars, it is resolved, that the business shall be referred to the states-general on behalf of their noble mighty lordships; to the end; that on the behalf of this state all possible defalcations of fines and means shall be yet used, for the deciding of the war between the kings of Sweden and Denmark lately risen; that so according to their H. and M. L. former resolution of the 15th of October last, and of the 13th instant, the desired tranquility and peace in Poland may be re-established, and by that means the general peace may be effected in those parts. And for the more efficacious proceeding herein, that the embassadors employed for the further overture of their H. and M. L. designed in this business for the said accommodation, be writ unto, that their H. and M. L. do conceive it to be the most readiest and likeliest way to come to an issue of the said war, by a powerful sollicitation of this state, as also of other allies and neighbours (if they think fit) of the said kings of Sweden and Denmark, to restore all things by provision, and to leave all things in such state as they were at the beginning of the war; and so to evacuate reciprocally, and to restore the countries, towns, forts and places taken from each other during the war, with a firm promise to maintain and observe on both sides the treaties made at Bromsbrow in the year 1645, whereof their H. and M. L. promised at that time to stand guarantees: and then there being a cessation of arms amongst them, that they do suffer the business to be further adjusted by the intervention of the allies on both sides. And forasmuch as concerneth the differences risen between the kings of Sweden and Poland, that the same may be determined after the manner as is expressed more at large in a certain memorandum of their H. and M. L. of the 18th of November of the last year, and sent at that time to the lords embassadors of this state.

And in regard, according to the several advices received, the duke of Brandenburgh is again accommodated with the king of Poland, and that thereby is chiefly effected the scope of the 7th and 8th articles of the said memorandum: that therefore also in conformity of the 9th article of the said memorandum, their H. and M. L. being thereunto desired, after perusal of the said treaty between the king of Poland and duke of Brandenburgh, that nothing therein be found prejudicial to this state, will be ready to be guarantees, upon the reciprocal protestation and observation of the said accommodation.

That likewise of the said their H. and M. L. salutary intention, communication be given to the king of France and the lord protector of the commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland, by the ministers of this state residing at the respective courts, as also to the lord president de Thou, embassador of the king of France here, with this assurance, that their H. and M. L. have no other design herein, but only to contribute all that lieth in their power, to the end a good accommodation and reasonable peace may be concluded between the two fighting parties; and also with this desire, that the said king of France and lord protector would be pleased to co-operate to the same end with their H. and M. L.

That likewise by order of their H. and M. L. about what is above-mentioned, there be forthwith a communication and conference held with the lords ministers of the duke of Brandenburgh here; and there be understood of them, whether the said duke be inclined to help and contribute all that lieth in his power to the end aforesaid; with this assurance, that their H. and M. L. in that case will be also disposed further to agree with the said duke for the further promoting of such a design.

Colonel Tho. Cooper to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvi. p. 110.

Honoured sir,
I Receaved yours of the first instant yesterday, and account it as a very great favour, that in the midst of your abundant, as well as great busines, you admit mee into your thoughts. It seemes that great busines of forming the other house is yet under consideration. The Lord, I hope, will direct the heart of his highnes, and those conserned with him, to dischardg a good consciens in it towards God and man; for the eyes of heaven as well as earth are upon you, and God doth seem to say, whoe is on my side? whoe for secureinge and provideinge for a godly interest in these nations for posterety? Many prayers have been, and are put up about it; and as you say veary well, all that fear the Lord, had need watch unto prayer, that they may be Jacob's prevailers with God. It seemes their enemyes are wakeinge and watchinge, and blessed bee him, who fitteth in heaven, and hath them in derision, and heatherto hath not let them bring forth the mischiefe they have conceaved. It will be wisdom of such as fear God, least by devydinge and sinfull principles, they midwife their designes into the world, which otherwise might still prove abortive, that all members will come in at the next meeting of the house. I fear the spirits of some will bee as troublesom as bitter, yet wee have a good word in that case: the Lord saith, surely the wrath of man shall praise him, and the remainder of wrath hee will restrain. This poore nation is in quiet, that a single man with a wand may ryde with what chardg hee will without fear; which, I hope, through the goodnes of God, may continue. I beg your pardon for this trouble, and remaine,
Sir, your humble, and veary much obliged servant,
Tho. Cooper.

Carricksergus, 12th Dec. 1657.

Since the commission for setleing the councell came, they are intent about the assessment, and bad money; but as yet nothing is concluded.

Major-general Jephson to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvi. page 144.

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Sir,
I Have receyved none from you, since I wrote my last upon the seventh instant, in which I sent you the substance of the king of Sweden's aunswer to the king of Denmarke's declaration, a copy whereof I now send you inclosed. Upon thursday last I receyved a letter from mr. Meadowe of the 29th of November, which gives mee very little hopes of the success of this treatye; for though in the beginning hee is pleased to speake much of the king of Denmarke's willingnesse to a peace, yett at length he tells me plainly, that if the king of Sweden shall demaundany satisfaction for the dammadges hee hath sustained by this warr of Denmarke, or pretend to any advantadge by the acquisitions hee hath made in time of warre in Jutland or Holstein, 'twill bee as easy to reconceile contradictions, as to settle a peace betweene these two princes. And truly I cannot find, that 'tis very probable, that the king of Sweden, who imputes the losse of all Poland, and the indaungering of the losse of all hee hath on this syde of the Baltique-sea to the king of Denmarke's (unjust as hee calls it) breach of the peace with him, will put himselfe in the same condition hee was, and leave himselfe lyable to the same inconveniencyes, without any farther security, now hee hath by arms made himselfe master of near a third part of Denmarke. I had lately a discourse with the king's secretary here, by whom I find, that their expectations are farre otherwise; that in liew of Jutland and Holstein; the king of Denmarke should restore Skonen, and some other thinges lying beyond the Baltique-sea, which did formerly belong to the crowne of Sweden. Hee seemes to be of opinion, that nothing can possibly settle a firme peace betwixt those two crownes, untill the cause of all the quarrells bee removed, which is the king of Denmarke's jealousy, that the Swedes, under pretence of their owne freedome, doe defraud him of the greatest part of his toles in the Sound, which hee calls an usurpation to the prejudice of Sweden, and others on the Baltique-sea; and this hee supposeth cannot bee done without a generall freedome of trade graunted to all; and if nothing bee thought fitt to bee given for satisfaction of the king of Denmarke's losse, which hee says will not therein amount to above 30 thousand dollars a yeare. This hee conceyves might bee done by some agreement in grosse by the yeare, with all such princes and states as have occasion to traffique that waye. In relation to the businesse betwixt us and Sweden, hee told mee, the king was very desirous, if I had any proposition to make him by vertue of my instructions, that I would doe it speedilye; which he seemed to move as a compliment to mee in order to the dispatch of my businesse, that I might be (if possible) in England at the parliament, whereof I had formerly expressed some desyre in my discourse to him. I told him, I had noe particular propositions to make to his majestie, but only general instructions to treate of the tearmes, wherein assistance might bee graunted, if any should bee demanded from England, either of money, ships, or men. Hee was very desirous to have known something of these particulars; to which I aunswered, that I would peruse my instructions, and give his majestie an account of as much as I was thereby authorized to doe; which I intend (God willing) to doe to morrow; which will be noe more than to lett him know, that it will bee impossible for H. H. to give him any considerable assistance, without the parliament's helpe in point of moneye, who will at least expect that some places of strength be put in his hands, both for safety of our men and frigates, wmlst they shall be in the service, and for security for payment of the money that small be e necessarily dilbursed for their mayn tenance. I have heard very little newes since my last; but I was told by one of the Holland embassadours gentlemen, that they had heard by letters out of Poland, that the k. of Poland had likewise refused to treat with the k. of owed. under the el. of Brand.'s me diation. unless the k. of Denm. were included in the treaty. The king's fleet is gone hence for Sweden about five days since with a very sayre wind, where in probabilitye they are arrived. The king would very faine have his queene in these parts this winter; but 'tis feared the season of the yeare will hardly permitt. I shall add noe more to your present trouble then a reall profession, that I am,
Sir, your faythfull and affectionate humble servant,
W. Jephson.

Wismar, 14 Dec. 1657.

The states-general to the protector.

Domino protectori Angliæ, Scotiæ, & Hiberniæ, &c.

Vol. lvi. p.274.

Serenissime, &c.
Quanquam certò confidimus naves dictas S. Jago, Fortunam, aliasque à navibus nostris bellicis Lusitanis ereptas (postquam omnes aliæ viæ & rationes, quibus nobis jamdudum satisfactum esse oportuit de ingentibus damnis & injuriis nostratibus ab istâ gente inflictis negatæ fuerunt) ab arrestis ibidem jussu celsitudinis vestræ jam exemptas ac libe ras esse; nihilominus non potuimus non celsitudinem vestram rogare (si fortassis prædictæ aliæque captæ naves Lusitanorum, aut aliorum impulsu atque operâ, vigore eorundem arrestorum adhuc illic detineantur) ut celsitudini vestræ libeat, animum advertere, atque considerare 24° capite fœderis inter nos icti conventum esse, ut incolæ alterutriùs reipublicæ obtendentes sibi injuriam ab alteris factam esse, satisfactionem damni injuriæve illatæ petere debeant, ubi ille, qui accusatur damnum dedisse, domicilium habeat: quare etiam negotiatores Britanni ostendentes centuriones nostros aut navium præfectos ipsis injuria quasdam merces prædictis Lusitanorum captis navibus impositas abstulisse, nusquam alibi actionem suam instituere deberent, quam apud judices rebus maritimis apud nos præpositos, sub quibus dicti centuriones naviumque præfecti subordinati sunt. Quod alioquin miram & inauditam confusionem omni juri æquitatique contrariam causaretur, si centuriones præfectique alterutrius reipublicæ super navibus ab hostibus suis jure belli captis alibi terrarum quàm apud suos judicium subire cogerentur. Spondemus autem promittimusque Anglis, qui merces suas captis navibus impositas hic reclamare voluerint, justitiam ex jure publico & æquitate administratum iri. Porrò non possumus non celsitudinem vestram celare anno 32° hujus sæculi operâ & instantiâ Caroli de Columbo, tunc temporis legati extra ordinem Hispaniæ regis in Britannia, etiam Lusitanam navem saccharo onustam à nostris captam, ibidem arresto impeditam fuisse, quantumvis laborantibus ringentibusque Hispanis post maturum examen ac discussionem rerum iterum ab arresto liberatam. Quapropter considimus celsitudinem vestram perpensis omnibus nobiscum judicaturam esse prædictas Lusitanorum captas naves nobis jure merito competere, adeoque liberum illis in Britanniæ portubus ingressum atque stationem indeque regressum sine ullo impedimento aut molestiâ jure fœderis deberi, nec ad alium quemquam judicium spectare, num istæ naves jure an injuriâ à præsectis nostris captæ sint, quàm ad prædictos apud nos judices rebus maritimis præpositos. Considimus porrò, non modò sæpiùs dictas naves jam ab arresto expeditas aut propediem expediendas esse, verum etiam in posterum cautum iri, ne similibus arrestis naves nostræ & prædæ ex hostibus actæ præpediantur; de quo nulli dubitare volumus, eo amplius, quod gratissimum nobis accidit ex relatu legati nostri Neoportii audire celsitudinem vestram declarâsse sese in gratiam Lusitanorum nihil facturum esse, quod fœderato Belgico damnosum aut injurium esse possit. Quod superest,
Serenissime, &c.

Datæ Hagæ Comit. 24 Decemb. 1657. [N. S.]

The duke of Holstein-Gottorp to the protector.

Serenissimo & potentissimo principi, domino Olivario, domino & protectori reipublicæ Angliæ, Scotiæ, & Hiberniæ, &c. amico & vicino nostro charissimo,

Fridericus Dei gratiâ hæres Norwegiæ, dux Slesvici-Holsatiæ, Stormariæ & Ditmarsiæ, comes in Oldenburg & Delmenhorst, salutem.

Vol. lvi.p.137.

Serenissime princeps,
Imminet nunc iterum per Dei gratiam unius anni exitus, qui non immerito quotquot mundi machinam incolunt homines, divinorum beneficiorum memores reddit, simulque nes etiam admonet, quantum divinæ ipsius benignitati debeamus, quod etiam tempus hoc elapsum nobis quamvis non immunibus abillis difficultatibus, sub quibus universa ferè Europa gemit, in sanitate & mediocri rerum statu transigere clementer concesserit. Nulli itaque ambigimus, quin aliqua lætitiæ pars ad dilect. vestram inde redundet, cui inde indubitatâ ipsius prosperâ valetudine & selici rerum successu animitùs gratulamur, supremum numen supplices venerantes, & pro consuetâ sua bonitate benignè largiri dignetur, quo jamjam inchoandi novi anni primordia toti reipublicæ Christianæ tàm auspicato sidere illuceant, ut in eodem alma pax & secura tranquillitas ad salutem publicam tendentium consiliorum adminiculo florescat, perpetuò conservetur, & ad seram posteritatem transmittatur. Quicquid etiam dilect. vestra nos saltem novo hoc sed insecuturis quàm plurimis annis in maximæ felicitatis parte deputare unquam poterit, hoc eodem intemerato affectu vovemus & apprecamur, dilect. vestram obnixè regantes, ut in suo erga nos domumque nostram ducalem concepto favore persistat, eundemque nobis integrum ac illibatum conservet, dilect. vestræ officia nostra nullô non tempore promptissima vicissim deferimus, eamque hisce divinæ protectioni sedulò commendamus. Dabantur in arce nostrâ Gottorpiensi, die 24 Decembris anno 1657. [N. S.]
Dilectionis vestræ studiosissimus,
Fredericus.

Secretary Thurloe to Lockhart, embassador in France.

In the possession of Joseph Radecliffe, of the Inner Temple esq.

Your lordship's of the 5/15 and 9/19 instant, are both come to my hands. I doe wish, that the cardinall taketh his measures right as to the exclusion of the Austrian famely in the election of an emperor. It will bee of great consequence to France, if it can be effected, and some advantage to the other parts of the world. The propositions and promises made to B. by the king are very considerable, and may worke very much to that end; but truly I think, that nothing will so directly tend to his purpose as to putt his Flanders affayres into a good condition early in the spring, which it will not be hard for him to doe: if he deals justly with us in the businesse of Mardyke, and sends us money to make preparations in the spring for besiedging Dunkirke, hee may order his matters if hee will, that hee may have the greatest part of his army to attend the affayres of the empire. I am glad to see his readynesse to relieve Mardyke: H. H. alsoe did his part upon the first newes of the alarum; 12 companies were ordered away forthwith, and five of them landed there upon thursday night. Wee have not heard since, that the enemy is like to attempt it. On saturday last wee had a messenger came from thence, whoe sayth, that they heare the enimy is somewhat discouraged; soe that wee know not well what condition that businesse is in. I beleeve the enimy sees it will cost them deare before they carry it. I hope by the next to send you a particular of all our disoursements for that place, which your excellence will see is somewhat high. That which most of all troubles us in this businesse, is the losse of sir J. Reynolds and col. White, with some other inserior officers. Is is certaine they are cast away at sea coming from Mardyke on saturday last was seaven-night in the night. This losse is exceeding sadd, and a very great blow to us.

I have had some discourse with the Swedish minister about the peace spoke of betwixt his master and the king of Poland; and he assures mee, that some endeavours have been about it, but that for the present it seems impossible, in respect of the high demands of the Pole, which he sayth are these:

First, That all Prussa bee quitted. Secondly, that all his consederates, as Hungary, Muscovy, &c. bee included. Thirdly, that before the treaty begins, Thoren and another strong garrison bee putt into a neutrall's hands. And fourthly, that the Pillaw be shut upp as to the Swedish shipps and commerce. And he assures mee, that these are the last transactions, which have been betweene them: soe that in all probability, if noe peace is like to bee betweene these two powers, and if that of Denmarke and Sweden prove unsuccessfull, all that part of the world will bee in flames the next yeare, and what other partakers will bee on both sides, is very doubtfull.

Mr. Downing goes from hence to the Hague upon thursday next. The reasons of his goeing are to negotiate in those assayres in the East-sea, and alsoe of Portugall; and in case France will give orders to mons. de Thou to speake with that vigor in those twoe businesses as the cardinall express to you, it is very likely it may prove of very good effect. I am of the opinion, that it is to noe purpose to speake any further with the Neapolitan. As for Cartwrite, I doubt whether it bee better to banish him, or keep him in prison. Hee is a notable instrument of Ch. Stuart's; and therefore in case the cardinall will not deliver him unto H. H. which would bee a very generous action, I thinke it best, that he bee kept in prison untill further consideration bee had of him. H. H. will be able to furnish the cardinall with a very able man for his money; but it will be necessary, that his eminence expresse what quallity he would have him of, whether he means a builder, or whether one that should supervise only, and also what allowance he would make, and then there is noe doubt but hee will be sitted.

I doe not knowe the grounds of the reports, which your excellence meets with about the malcontents in England: I beleeve they were never in a better temper, and more unanimous in affection to H. H. and his affayres; and if they were otherwise, the stirrings of the cavalleers, whoe begin to carry it as under some new hopes, would cure all their other troubles; for whatever they differ upon, they will agree against Ch. Stuart and his party, that is certain. I have used all the care I can about the horses of the duke of Orleans, and cannot yetgett them released: I shall further endeavour it. I beg your pardon for this length, and rest

14/24 Decemb. 1657. Yours.

Colonel R. Gibbon to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvi. p. 139.

Sir,
According to your directions, I this evening dispatch'd an intelligent officer, who set saile towards Mardyke about seven of the clock in a catch, which sir Richard Stayner suplyed him withall, with directions from mee to make his returne by the first opportunity; and I doubt not from him to receive a speedy account how affaires stand there.

Since hee went, I received from an officer of mine there this account following, viz. That the tenth instant there came into the fort of Mardike one of the marshalls of France with his retinewe; and that in that fort there are about sixteen hundred English, and about eight or nine hundred French. It is conceived by that my intelligence, that the enemy will scarce adventure to molest that place this winter, by layeing a siege to it, they having not foote enough to withstand salleys. If they doe any thing (hee writes) they there conceive it must bee by some sudaine assault; and by that they will unavoidably hazard their whole army, if repulsed. The sad newes of sir John Reynolds is still confirmed, as sir Richard Stayner informes mee; and that there perished with him many others.

Those of mine at Mardike make sad complaints in their letters to mee about the hardshipp they endure in reference to their lodgeings there, haveing neither bedds nor straw to lye on; but the particulars thereof I shall not trouble you att present, untill I understand his highnes's further pleasure concerning their returne or stay there. I am,
Right honorable,
Your very humble servant,
R. Gibbon.

Deale, 14 Decemb. 1657.

Colonel Gibbon to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvi. p. 142.

Right honorable,
I Have by this bearer sent you the two gentlemen, according to your order, whome last night were received from on board sir Richard Stayner. Having noething more since my last of the last night to you, I remaine,
Sir, your very humble servant,
R. Gibbon.

14. Decemb. 1657.

I am now goeing to Deale, and intend to ship an officer for Mardike this day. I have a report this day (but give no great credit to it) that the Spaniards are drawen into their quarters. You shall have further as I receive intelligence.

The Swedish commissioners proposal made by word of mouth to the English commissioners 5th December, which they demanded in writing, given them the 7th of December, 1657.

Vol. lvi. p. 65.

Whereas by reason of some urgent businesses falling in, you have perhaps not soclearly and fully perceived our sense in our late meeting concerning some præcognita, we have been willing to express it candidly in this writing, reserving notwithstanding expresly by these presents, that we be in no case hereafter obliged, but with our own free consent, unto any such account to be given by writing.

We said, that we understood, that we being friends and confederates assembled together, deputed commissioners, and constituted umpires on both sides, ought in the very entrance in any case to agree concerning the principles and præcognita necessary to our commission, least that in our progress we should strike often upon the same rock, and so we should labour in all things, and in the whole matter unto no purpose. We said, that we believed, that those were chiesly either about the pretensions themselves to be exhibited and proposed on both sides, or about the proofs of those pretensions, that in the serutiny and examining of them we acknowledged no other foundation or rule but the treaty itself friendly concluded betwixt the confederates; nor had we in our instructions on our side in any fashion to rub the fores, which were fairly healed and grown up betwixt the consederates by a friendly agreement; that is to say, to sist over or examine again whence such a ship, whether Swedish or English, came, or whether she was bound, in the time of war, betwixt England and Holland, nor to seek again into the causes, whether just or no, wherefore this or that ship, or the goods of either party, were taken, detained and afterwards dismissed, supposing all those things examined, agitated, disputed before-hand, and laid asleep after the sentences given.

Neither do we yet suppose, that we are therefore obliged by the sentences formerly given therein, further then as they do meerly prove, that such goods and ships were made free and released at such a time: forasmuch as to our own knowledge it was at the last agreed and established betwixt the friends and consederates most friendly and simply, without any exception, distinction, limitation or cautele, that a full restitution should be made of all ships and goods, either set free, or to be set free; and that satisfaction should be given for all expences, costs, and damages, by reason of the taking and detaining of either ships or goods, for what cause soever: and that those pretensions should on both sides be cleared sincerely and simply, according to what is good and equitable by us that are deputed commissioners, and constituted umpires.

But as to the proofs, we conceive, that we are not bound to the strict forms of law, nor to written laws, whether Swedish or English, or Roman; seeing the treaty it self prescribes us in this case, that this business should be made an end of without any form of law; it being the sense and desire of the consederates on both sides, that what is inequal in these controversies should without any delay on both sides be determined. We think the thing may better be illustrated by an example; framing such a state of the controversy in the cause of those of the Wismar, represented to us the 14th of November, whether that instrument of the sixfold complaint be sufficient or no in this one cause propounded to us, to prove the expences, costs and damages, according to the true and natural sense of the treaty concluded.

Our request and desire is, that every one of us would at our next meeting speakh is own sense concerning the thing; producing thereupon his reasons for or against it; that by this example it may appear, whether or no we agreed concerning these principles, or præcognita, among our selves.

As for what belongs to that necessary præcognitum, seasonably mentioned by you concerning the term, from which and to which, that is to say, the beginning and end of the war betwixt England and Holland, within which our estimate and taxing of the damages on both sides should be circumscribed as within certain boundaries: this is our opinion, that the term from which ought to be either the beginning of the general reprisals granted out, which doubtless is here known, or else the day particularized in the 3d and 28th articles of the treaty of peace between England and Holland. In which notwithstanding, though we should not agree, we conceive, that without any danger of delay, or retarding of our negotiation, that may be lest to be decided by the authors of our new agreement, who some of them were present at the treaty concluded between the consederates.

To the first part of this our writing, concerning a sound understanding of the article, no answer hath been yet given us by the English commissioners; but they promised to do it as soon as they should have a copy of the treaty. As to the latter, they assented to the day prefixed in the treaty of peace betwixt England and Holland, unless they should have some better reason to the contrary.

Anno 1657, 12th of December in the forenoon about eight a clock, these words were spoken by us at our coming together. This day was destined, by an unanimous consent, to exhibit on both sides a catalogue of all the causes to be proposed by us in this our negotiation, no ways doubting but you intend the same. But first we say, that some days ago we gave into you a little paper, in which our sense, nay not only ours, but that of our most serene, most potent, and most gracious king, whose commissioners we are, is declared concerning the true and genuine understanding of the 7th article of the treaty of Westminster, which we before synecdochically named the general treaty; from which sense verily it is not lawful for us nor in our power to depart, not being permitted in any case to leap over the bounds of our instructions. But if your most serene and most high prince, whose commissioners you are, and your selves shall six upon this same foundation with us, which we hope, and which is of principal necessity, we shall be perfectly content.

But if not, we do then expresly reserve and will, that it be reserved to us, that this general producing of all our causes ought not to indamage us, nor be to our prejudice in any manner for the time to come. For the rest we understand, that absolutely we must come to a conclusion concerning the term, or the beginning of the English and Dutch war, that it may be certainly known before the catalogue of our causes be exhibited.

Notwithstanding nothing was then concluded in the points asoresaid. But presently in the same hour our catalogue was given in to them. But they said, that their pretensions were not yet brought in, but perhaps before five in the afternoon they might be ready. In the mean time notwithstanding after reading our catalogue, the English commissioners resolve, that we ought to settle certainly that of the beginning of the war. Their opinion is, that the term may best be from the time of the reprisals granted, to wit, August 1652: ours on the contrary, from the day named on the 3d, 28th and 30th article of the treaty of peace between England and Holland, to wit, 18th of May, which we do most humbly submit to be decided by our superiors, or their commissioners.

After dinner, about six o'clock, this pretension of theirs was sent to us, which we understand not, nor esteem it conformable to the article of peace concluded betwixt the confederates. Also before noon we had two more of the same nature given in to us. So that the sum of all their pretensions of this nature is 110,000 pounds sterling. But these their pretensions seem to arise out of the Swedish ships taken and detained, and afterwards set free by just sentences. For the taking and detaining of which we do require, if they be not yet restored, restitution; but if restored, satisfaction of expences, costs and damages, and that according to the tenor and natural sense of the treaty: but to what title therein these their pretensions can be referred, or whether this hath been and is done with the consent of their superiors, we do most humbly desire to be informed. Given at London, the 14th of December 1657.

J. Barkmann.

J. Prytz.

Joachim Potter.

Mr. John Aldworth, consul at Marseilles, to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvi. p. 168.

Right honorable,
The 18th currant I gave your honor an ample accompte of what came to my knoweledge at that time. I have at present to give you notice, that yesterday arrived heare a ship of Plymouth from Lisbone, who 16 dayes past lost general Stokes off the Southward-cape, with 9 frigatts, intending for these seas; which wil bee wellcome newes to our nation in all parts of the Mediterranean-seas, for that in less than 40 dayes store of Corsaires of all sorts wil be abroad. The 6 Thollon ships of warr are there retired, but not yet disarming. The general attends his orders from the court. If general Stokes should arrive theere for want of provisions, &c. I shall serve him in what I cann. The people of this place doth rejoyce, which is in the comming of the 9 frigatts into those seas, hoping the Tripoly and Tunis ships of warr will be destroyed by them, which is theire enemys as well as ours. The duke of Merkure, governor of this province, remaynes still in his government, and goes not to Rome to receive the cardinal's cap, as suposed. So humbly take leave, and remayne,
Right honorable,
Your honor's faithfull servant, Jo. Aldworth.

Marseilles, 25th Dec. 1657. [N.S.]

Monsieur Fly to Bordeaux.

Calais, 26 Dec. 1657. [N.S.]

Vol. lvi. p. 166.

My lord,
I Had not the honour to write to you by the last post, by reason I was busy in getting ready several necessaries to send away for Mardyke, where all things go pretty well, and where several of the nobility are arrived. The light horse-men and the guard of his eminence are making ready to go thither likewise. As soon as there is hay for them, they will be gone. This business is highly recommended to your lordship.

The loss of general Reynolds is very much lamented.

There appeareth but one English frigat upon our coast, and that hath been seen but once: there ought to be two for convoys; I pray remember it. All goeth well at Bourburgh. The enemy hitherto hath not done any thing, but shewn very great joy for the birth of the insant of Spain; in whose favour they have released all the French prisoners, which they have in their prisons: there are forty come from Gravelin.

To Bordeaux, the French embassador in England.

Calais, 25 Dec. 1657. [N. S.]

Vol. lvi. p. 164.

My lord,
In regard his eminence doth write to me in all his letters, that the enemy doth persist in his resolution to assault Mardyke, I am obliged to let you know as much, and to declare unto you, that there is nothing so necessary as to send thither with all speed some pallisades and hay. We ought to make good use of our time.

I believe, that monsr. de Turenne doth mention the same to you in all his letters; and that he doth intreat you to send thither some coverlids, if they can be sent, at the charge of the lord protector; there is nothing better than to get from him as many as you can. But if the king must pay him for them, we shall then find enough in this city; so that now that, which is most necessary at present, are pallisades, hay, and coverlids. The court of monsr. D'Aumont doth daily encrease at Mardyke, through the concourse of many fine gentlemen of the court, who arrive there daily.

The news, which I received just now from Mardyke, doth assure me, that the chiesest works will be quite finished within a day or two; and if they were pallisaded, they would be excellent good ones.

I am very sorry to hear of the loss of sir John Reynolds; he was a very gallant person, and well beloved in his army. It is a very considerable loss; and he hath been lamented by all our generals.

Capt. Sol. Combie to H. Cromwell, lord-deputy of Ireland.

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

May it please your excellency,

I Humbly present to your lordship's savourable remembrance the condition of the people of Wexford, whose disbursements in building, repaires and gaineing ground out of the sea, amounts to above ten thousand pounds; soe that the whole estates of many have beene expended, in hopes of ascertaining their interest by purchase, or long leases, according to the incouragements held forth by authority.

Their humble suit therefore is, that they may recieve leases by your excellencye's favour for one and thirty yeares; that soe the interest of the English may be for that tyme secured, and not presently devolv'd, for satisfaction of debts, with the rebells lands and houses; for being interwoven by your faithful people's improvements. Soe craveing pardon for my presumption, who am ever of the number of

Your excellencye's most obedient faithfull servants.
Sol. Combie.

Dublin, 15th Dec. 1657.

H. Cromwell, lord-deputy of Ireland, to lord Broghill.

15th Decemb. 1657.

In the possession of William Cromwell esq.

My dear lord,
I Received the honor of your lordship's of the 11th December 1657, and return you what your lordship therein sent inclosed to mee. I wish your lordship, with the papers I last sent, were all safe in England. Mr. secretary was sollicitous for you, upon occasion of the high winds, fearing your lordship might be involved in that sad disaster, which we fear is befallen our dear friend sir John Reynolds. Lieutenant-colonel White and he went on board a vessell, in order to come from Mardyke into England. A vessell was wrecked on the Goodwyn-sands, and a trunk taken up in the sea, wherein were found letters from White's wise to her husband. It may please the Lord, that sir John Reynolds may notwithstanding all this be safe; yet these are such dreadfull presumptions, as do much disquiett me and my poor wise. Mr. secretary longs to see you: but there is no resisting the hand of God in this visitation of his. I am sorry your lordship hath been so crossed in your order. I assure your lordship, I know no man, which hath not in his respective station acted vigorously for your dispatch.

Whether mr. secretary were out of humour or no the last week, I cannot tell, as not liking the election of the other house; but he hinted nothing, who they were. Nevertheless sir Mathew Thomlinson was pleased to tell me, that your lordship, my lord chancellor, himself, sir John Reynolds, and myself were appointed for Ireland. I am very sensible of the necessity, that all our friends ought to attend the first sitting of the parliament; and nothing shall be wanting thereunto in me, who am
Your's, &c.

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

[15 Dec. 1657.]

In the possession of the earl of Shelburn.

Deare brother,
I Perceive you are pleased to have a very ill resentment of what past heare, in order to the buisnes of reducement; wherin had I bine guilty, I should readily confesse it: but if upon a mistake you misaprehend me, I hope then you will excuse me, if I say, I am not deservedly blamed in this action; and so great a desire have I of being cleare in your opinion as to all things, in which I may be concerned relating to yourselfe, that I shall presume to give the trouble of an account concerning that affayre.

The counsell considering, how much the charg exceeded their revenue, did referre the consideration, how to lessen the present charge, by reducing what we could with safety the forces in the three nations: and accordingly a retrenchment was by the committee considered of, and the same referred to a counsell of officers belonging to the three armyes, who gave in most of what was sent you in relation to Ireland, as the most advisable way to retrench the charge, which neverthelesse the committee would not offerr to the counsell, before you had a consideration thereof, (and if that was a fault, I own myselfe cheifly guilty) that so you might make your exceptions. The same was done to general Monk, who did in som things differ from the committee; and the counsell being moved by myselfe, did give authority to him to reduce, according to what he proposed, yet giving the committee a power to consider of a further reducement; though I confesse his did not much differ from ours. I am sure none will have more respect amongst us then yourselfe. I doe acknowledg, whilst I had to doe with Ireland, I never could satisfye myselfe with that way, which I think you ayme at; but now the trust being solely to yourselfe, it is fit you should have the more finall resolution. And as for what you mention concerning the arrears, it's very well known, that I did argue that case even to anger; and all that could be answered was, the necessityes we are in for want of money. I doe think ther is no way but to represent what the army is in arrear, and the counsell, when the parliament sitt, to prepare it for them, that so they may direct which way to put it in. None for satisfaction shall be more ready to find out any other meanes, if possible, than myselfe; but what other course to take than this at presant, I cannot tell, unlesse you wright for a supply out of the buildings. Ther was a clause in your letter, which I would not willingly understand, that you had not bine well dealt with. Indeade if you mean myselfe, give me leave to say, I never did deale unworthily with any person, much lesse with yourselfe: and really, whilst you lissen to reports, or take actions in the worst sence, I shall still have cause to bewaile my former unhappynes in being misunderstood by you. I have made it my buysnes to prevent the giving any the least occasion of offence to you; and if to requit all, I must be still under you jealousyes, I am very unhappy. For my carriage in this buysnes of reducement, I shall referre myselfe to mr. secretary, who hath known the managment of this buysnes: and if I had mist the least part of freindshippe to you, I should be silent; but knowing how little reason you have for it, I must acknowledg my dissatisfaction with your last unto
Your very affectionate and humble servant,
Charles Fleetwood.

This sadde and sore rebuke in the casting away of thos eminent persons, sir John Reynolds and collonel White, hath a lowd voyce: the Lord teach us deeply to lay it to heart, and that we may truly understand the meaning therof. We have not had such a reproof this many a day. His deare lady cam hither the last weeke to have met him; but his highnes sent to hir to return; which shee did accordingly, but very unknown to hir this sadde occation. The perticulars of this will be sent you by other hands; and therfor shall not trouble you to inlarge upon such a sadde subject, which was a very publicque as well as privat losse.

You wer pleased to mention a proposition, in order to reducement, which you know was sent by you to his highnes, but never delivered to us, and is I beleeve lost. But I have medled too much in that buysnes, without I had bine better accepted.

The earle of Thomond haveing bine heare, hath bine earnest with me to mind you of his predecessors ancient grant, which was wont to be given them, to be somthing as to the government of Clare. I know you will show as much respect as becomes you, with a due regard to the publicke safety: thos things are not within my compass; and therfor shall not otherwise adde, then make known his desires, and doe not well understand the natur of the thing.

Lockhart, embassador in France, to secretary Thurloe.

Paris, Sept. [Dec.] 16/26 1657.

Vol. liv. p. 149.

May it please your lordship,
Since my last I received 4 from your lordship, 3 upon the sabbath-day, and one yesterday. I forgott also to mention in my former my receipt of his highnes commands, in behalf of monsr. de Bourdeaux. I have caused translate into French the grievances of the Protestants, sent me in your's of December, and shall present them to the cardinal; and shall mention their conditione to both their majesties, from whom I am promised audience so soone as the holy-dayes are past. I shall let them and his eminence know, with how much zeale his highnes recommends the interests of theise people to their protectione. Your lordship's of Decemb. 3d answers a lyne I troubled you with when my wyse was sick, in terms so oblygeing, as she and I esteeme ourselves bound to pray for the continuance of your's and my lady's health and prosperity. That of December 8th answers one of myne, and approves of what I said to the cardinal concerning his highnes expence at Mardike, and furnisheth me with more distinct apprehensions of the justice and equity we have to plead in that affaire, then I had before; which I shall not faile to make use of at next conference upon that subject. It lykwyse takes notice of mr. Downing's being sent into Holland. At my first audience (which I have pressed ever since my receipt of monsr. Bourdeaux's papers, and ame delayed till the holy-dayes be over) I shall moove, that orders may be sent to the French embassador in Holland, to communicate with mr. Downing. Your lordship's last, of December 10th, brings me the list of those named for the other house; and finding my own amongst them, doe receive that honor from his highnes with all humble gratitude, and looke upon it as an assurance, that your lordship hath not forgott your accustomed care of your servant. The sadd newes of sir John Reinold's being cast away, is not only reported, but believed heare: if it be true, besyds the losse his highnes and the publick will suffer by it, the deplorable condition of his poore lady is much to be lamented.

Monsr. Turenne doth not yett returne: a new advertisement, that the enemie continues their designe of attaquing Mardicke, or some other place, makes him keep his forces in readinesse to observe the enemie's motione. I believe both of them will be forced to draw into their quarters e're it be long. Tuesday last I received a letter from him, and another from baron Shomburgh, governor of Bourburg: he desyers, I may wrytt to our forces, that quarter'd at Guien, to march to Bourburg; which (tho' in civill terms) I have refused to doe. Shomburgh complaines of the weaknesse of our troops at Bourburg, and of their disorders, blaminge especially the officers: he wrytts of them with so much tartnesse, as I have been forced to answere him in his owne straine. I feare he is too neare the pretended duke of York, whose lieutenant he was: he is a Protestant, but hath alwayes had his dependance upon Charles Stuart's family: monsr. Turenne placed him their much against my opinion. Doctor Fraser, by collonel Rotherfort's mediation, hath earnestly sollicitted my giving him a passe to return into England: I did both deny the passe, and refused to give your lordship any trouble about it, except I had something to justify me under his own hand. He sent me the inclosed last week, and is most earnest to know what hops their is of his having leave to return into England upon good caution. He fears your lordship may be incensed against him, for having left England without taking leave, he having received so many favors from you. The most I can say for him is, I know he disobeyed Charles Stuart's orders, who commanded him to waite upon the prince of Condé, and offerd to have seen my wyfe, when she was sick; which I tooke kyndly, but did not accept of, least I should have been too far engadged to him. Sir George Cartright is banished France: he gave it out first, he would goe into Flanders, and seeke his revenge; but hath since fallen upon calmer thoghts, and goes to Savoy, and from thence to Venice, if he can meet with any imployment there. My lord Inchequin is lyke to be sent the same way: he hath abstracted his sone from the colledge, which received him, when he was taken violently from before my gate: he is now ordered to restore him to me; wherein if he faile, all his pensions and commissions are revocked, and his person and his son's banished the king's dominions. I have of late forborne to give your lordship notice of my pursuitt of this businesse, fearing I might be accounted too zealos in it, upon the account of the privatt injury I received; but I may assure you, I have met with such difficulties about it, as had not the consideratione of his highnes honor being ingadged in it prevailed with me, I had deserted it long agoe. Both the fore-mentioned persons threaten me with strange things; but I am resolved to give loosers leave to speake. Nolred, the famous painter, is returned from Portugall, and hath brought the infanta's picture; her beauty is so much commended by the queen and cardinal, as some believe that a match is intended. I begg leave to remember your lordship of what I spoke concerning mr. Swift, in relation to some place about the other house: I tooke the boldnesse to name one of the clarks places; but all my propositions of that nature are accompanied with that submission, which becometh the dewty of,
May it please your lordship,
Your lordship's most humble, fathfull, and obedient servant,
Will. Lockhart.

A letter of intelligence from col. Bamfylde.

[Paragraph contains cyphered content — see page image]

In the possession of the right hom. Phillip lord Hardwicke, lord high-chancellor of Great Britain

Sir,
Not knowing any other cause for your long silence, I muste conclude it either from my soe frequently and pressingly writing 359 47 14 49 15 65 78 from my owning 199 31 16 92 29 20 28 45 2 3 27 19 46 64, or from my strikeing mr. Roper, as you may conceave it prejudiciall to what you and I designed. To your firste I was necessitated; and if as often as I have occasions of that kinde, your displeasure muste be in curred, your breaking of this correspondence (thowgh I muste confess it will trowble mee to loose the only frend I had any hopes of) ought less to afflict mee, then that I showld be constrayned to offend you every 2 or three months. As to the second, I thought it much better to avowe that freely, which none cowld consider as dishonorable or unlawfull; the freindship, that has been betwixt us twoe heretofore, being knowne to some even in theise parts; and since I did not knowe, but that some 627 568 59 44 66 23 46 36 419 been 475 453 6 22 11 12 20, and sent to 674 61 27 19 45 62, I thought, that the wisest course I coulde take as to all purposes, as well as the safest for my selfe. For the businesse of mr. Roper, I would have done the same thing I did, if I had been as much in his master's favour as I am in his displeasure; and I am soe far from haveing loste any advantages 421 743 803 226, as my capacity is much greater then it would have been, if this had never arived. I am goeing to morrow to Hidlebergh, when I beleive I shall meet 418 ere longe, and know 786 421 650 31 40 62 29 341. If I hear from you within a month, I shall continue here; if I doe not, you cannot justely be dissatisfyed at my disposing of my selfe soe, as that I may not be reduced to such great extremityes as I was reasonably apprehensive of before 803 406 17 65 569 47 3 24 25. I have nowe as much mony left mee as will keep mee a month or six weeks longer, and carry mee after to some army, whither I intend, if 737 164 569. I am,
December, the 16/26 1657.

Sir,
Your humblest servant,
Jo. Nownan.

If you have absolutely broaken of your correspondence with mee, as I have great reason to beleeve from your neer 3 months silence, besides divers other circumstances, I shall request you, as the laste favour I am either to desire or hope for from you, that you will please to signifie your resolution only in 3 lines, that I may not runn myself upon the sands, by continueing in theise parts to noe purpose, nor disoblidge you, by quitting them, if you desire my continuance.

Be pleased to direct your letters hereafter directly by the way of Antwerp thus, à monsieur monsr. Pierre Neusville, marchand à Frankford; under which, à monsieur monsr. Jean Nownan, à Frankfort: or else by Amsterdam thus, à monsieur monsr. Pierre Montenach, marchand à Amsterdam: under which, à monsieur monsr. Neusville, marchand à Frankfort, pour saire tenir à monsieur Nownan.

A monsieur monsr. Nathaniel Manton, marchand à Londres.

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

Dublin, 16 Decemb. 1657.

In the possession of William Cromwell esq.

Sir,
The news of sir John Reynolds doth much afflict his friends here, having been represented something more suspicious than by your letter. I am ashamed to press you thus often for a supply of money, and for express orders and directions about our reducement. We were yesterday contriving how to regulate the civill-list, and hope to depress that charge to 33000 l. per annum. We have also finished the business of assessments, and have put the finall adjudication of claims in a way; and are now about the greatest and most trying worke of all the rest, the settling of the adventurers. Your sparingness concerning the other house makes me suspect your apprehension of that choice. I did by accident learn, who were named for Ireland. My lord of Broghill hath till this time been detained by the gout; which being pretty well over, his lordship intends to sett forwards this week. The weather has been very stormy here; I wish him safe over. I will do my endeavour, that no parliament-men stay behind. We have been much startled of late with the number of grants for land, which have lately been sent us over by his highness or the parliament: they are many of them very exorbitant satisfactions for old debts; I beleive in some cases above 20 times more than ever was expected. This course will so peele the revenue, that we must have greater supplys from England, than will be cheerfully afforded us. We are thinking to propound something for his highness consideration, either to hold his hands, or lay before him the consequences of his liberality. In particular, the act for Glocester will give away all Galway, and thereby much endanger the English interest in Ireland. (I formerly wrote unto you, to have a speciall care of this place.) And as this act may be construed, it is like to sweep away some other good cities and towns besides. I should enlarge upon these particulars; but till I know what will become us in the point of money and reducement, I shall forbear. Remaining
Your's, &c.

I know not what to do with mr. Goodwin: if you do not restore him, I wish, for my own case, some of his friends would advise him to return.